Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass

$629.00

5.0 (1)

$499.00

5.0 (3)

$579.00 10 available New

$579.00

Average Price: $583

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Electric Basses category, Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

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The Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass offers a nostalgic trip back to the roots of rock 'n' roll, while embracing modern playability and comfort. This bass is a testament to Danelectro's iconic design, featuring the unmistakable Shorthorn double-cut body. Its 29.75-inch scale length is perfect for those who prefer a more compact and manageable feel, whether you're transitioning from guitar or exploring new bass territories.

Powering its sound are two high-output Lipstick pickups that deliver a punchy, harmonically rich tone with a gritty edge. The pickups, with their Alnico magnets, encapsulate a vintage vibe that resonates through every note. The bass is lightweight and comfortable, thanks to its hardboard/plywood body construction, making it equally suitable for long jam sessions or live performances. The maple neck and pau ferro fingerboard offer a smooth touch and responsive playability, while the fully adjustable bridge ensures precise intonation to suit your playing style.

Key Features:

Classic Shorthorn double-cut body design
Comfortable short-scale 29.75" length
Lightweight spruce/plywood body with hardboard top
High-output Lipstick pickups with Alnico magnets for vintage tone
Maple neck and pau ferro fingerboard for smooth playability
Fully adjustable bridge for easy intonation adjustments

Product specs

Number of Strings	4
Left-/Right-handed	Right-handed
Body Shape	'59 Doublecut
Body Material	Spruce/Plywood (body), Hardboard (top)
Body Finish	Gloss Polyester
Neck Material	Maple
Neck Shape	C
Radius	14"
Fingerboard Inlay	White Dots
Number of Frets	24
Scale Length	29.75"
Nut Width	1.650"
Nut Material	Aluminum
Bridge/Tailpiece	Adjustable Bridge
Tuners	Closed Gear
Neck Pickup	High Output Single-coil
Bridge Pickup	High Output Single-coil
Controls	2 x stacked volume/tone
Strings	D'Addario
Case/Gig Bag	Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass?: The Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass features a scale length of 29.75 inches, making it easier to play for those with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact instrument.
What type of pickups does the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass have?: This bass is equipped with high-output single-coil pickups at both the neck and bridge positions, providing a bright and punchy tone suitable for various music styles.
Is the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass is suitable for beginners due to its shorter scale length, which offers easier playability and comfort, especially for those new to bass playing.
What materials are used in the construction of the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass?: The body of the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass is made from spruce and plywood, with a hardboard top, and it features a maple neck with a gloss polyester finish for durability and a classic look.
Does the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass come with a case or gig bag?: No, the Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass does not come with a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately.

Videos

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The Zombie Guitar Company

Danelectro 59DC Short scale bass copper

The Zombie Guitar Company

Short test of Danelectro '59DC short scale bass.

gordon patriarca

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent fret work, especially for a budget instrument
Easy to adjust action and setup with included tools
Short scale is ideal for smaller hands and easier playability
Comfortable neck with tighter string spacing
Great tone, particularly from the lipstick pickups
Visually appealing finishes like copper and Black Sparkle
Classic look reminiscent of vintage models
Highly playable and great for transitioning from guitar to bass
Exceptional value for its price range

CONS

Action may require initial adjustment upon arrival

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass.

Build quality

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The Danelectro '59DC bass features a body made of plywood and plastic, with a machined aluminum nut, making it super lightweight.
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The fretboard is reported to be completely flat, which may feel unusual compared to other basses with more curvature.
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The nut is secured with a screw, which is typical for Danelectro, making it easy to remove and replace.
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Features and functionality

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Lipstick tube pickups on the '59DC provide an authentic tic tac bass sound that effectively cuts through a mix.
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Despite being listed as semi-hollow, the bass delivers a notably woody sound, enhancing its tonal character.
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Comparisons

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Owners note Danelectro instruments are made from masonite, contributing to a perception of them being less robust compared to Fender basses.
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The '59DC is perceived as more traditional in appearance compared to the more unconventional Danelectro Longhorn model.
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Compared to a Fender Jazz Bass, the Danelectro's neck pickup is strong, but the bridge pickup is weaker, resulting in a stellar combined tone.
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Use cases and applications

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While great for a cutting mix, the '59DC may lack the low-end presence needed for certain musical styles, such as those requiring more oomph.
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Despite not being a typical choice for punk and metal, its unique tone can stand out in these genres.
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The bass excels in old rock, blues, and country, delivering a 60's Hofner-like thud, and is favored for these genres.
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User experience

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Described as having an "Ikea" feel, some users appreciate its DIY aesthetic, likening it to a homemade instrument.
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The lightweight nature of the bass is emphasized, making it suitable for players seeking a less cumbersome instrument.
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Owners find the neck comfortable and easy to grip, with the bass balancing well due to its small headstock and semi-hollow design.
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Setup and maintenance

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Some users experience issues with DR Legends strings, noting inconsistent A string smoothness and occasional dead E strings.
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Critic Reviews

Danelectro releases '59DC short-scale bass | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Danelectro's '59DC Short Scale Bass strikes a fine balance between guitar and bass, featuring a sleek design and high-output pickups that deliver a rich sound. Its short 29.75" scale length is comfortable for players transitioning from guitar, while the vintage aesthetic adds charm. However, some critiques point to its somewhat limited tonal versatility and heavier build compared to other short scales. Ultimately, this instrument offers an attractive entry point for bassists seeking a unique blend of style and functionality, but it may not satisfy those looking for extensive tonal options.

positive

Full Review

Danelectro ‘59DC Short-Scale Basses Released - Bass Guitar Review

bassguitarreview.co.uk

Full Review

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Artist usage

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Curt Smith

Singer, Bassist

Tears for Fears

Verified via Photo

In the attached photo you can clearly see that Curt is playing a Danelectro 59DC bass during the 8th Andre AGASSI GRAND SLAM on October 13, 2003

Eric Drew Feldman

Bassist, Keyboardist

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

Verified via Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

Eric Drew Feldman played a Danelectro short scale bass while touring with Captain Beefheart in 1977.

Joey Spampinato

Singer, Bassist

NRBQ

Verified via Photo

One of his main basses, he can be seen playing it in this photo.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Danelectro '59DC Short Scale Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Ampeg SVT-CL Classic Bass Amplifier Heads

Moog Minimoog Model D Synthesizers

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