Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,550

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson SB-400 Bass is a distinguished choice for bassists who value both heritage and performance. This electric bass offers a classic design with modern enhancements, making it perfect for both stage and studio. The SB-400 combines Gibson's renowned craftsmanship with a vintage-inspired tone that resonates with players seeking that authentic bass sound. Its smooth neck and comfortable playability allow for effortless movement across the fretboard, catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals alike.

Equipped with Gibson's proprietary pickups, the SB-400 delivers a robust and dynamic range of tones, from deep lows to punchy mids and crisp highs. The versatile tonal output ensures it can adapt to a variety of musical genres, whether you're laying down funky grooves or driving rock lines. Crafted with high-quality materials, the SB-400 ensures durability and long-lasting performance, making it a reliable companion for years to come.

The bass’s controls are straightforward yet effective, offering precision in shaping your sound. Whether you're performing live or recording in the studio, the Gibson SB-400 Bass stands out with its timeless design and impressive sonic capabilities.

Key Features:

  • Gibson proprietary pickups for versatile tonal range
  • Classic design with modern enhancements
  • Smooth neck for comfortable playability
  • High-quality materials for durability
  • Straightforward control layout for precise sound shaping

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model SB-400
Finish Cherry, Walnut
Year 1971 - 1973
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Alder
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown, Red
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of music is the Gibson SB-400 Bass best suited for?

The Gibson SB-400 Bass, with its passive pickups and solid alder body, is versatile but particularly well-suited for rock and blues genres, offering a warm, vintage tone.

How does the Gibson SB-400 Bass compare to modern bass guitars in terms of playability?

The Gibson SB-400 Bass features a 20-fret rosewood fretboard and a maple neck, providing a smooth playing experience with a vintage feel, which may differ from modern basses that often offer more frets and active electronics.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson SB-400 Bass?

The Gibson SB-400 Bass typically features a slim neck profile, making it comfortable for players with smaller hands and offering fast playability.

Does the Gibson SB-400 Bass have active electronics?

No, the Gibson SB-400 Bass is equipped with passive pickups and does not feature active electronics or a preamp.

Is the Gibson SB-400 Bass suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson SB-400 Bass is a vintage instrument and may require some setup, its straightforward controls and comfortable neck make it accessible for beginners who appreciate classic tones.

Andrew's Guitar Shop

Andrew's Guitar Shop

53 Years Old Gibson Restoration

Video thumbnail for 53 Years Old Gibson Restoration by Andrew's Guitar Shop

53 Years Old Gibson Restoration

Andrew's Guitar Shop

Andrew's Guitar Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SB-400 Bass.

Setup and maintenance

  • The control plate on the SB-400 may require re-chroming or custom fabrication due to rust issues, as replacements are hard to find.

    Source
  • Vintage 2-point Tune-o-Matic bridges are sought after for correcting the angle issues affecting action on the SB-400.

    Source

User experience

  • Electronics remain in excellent condition, providing great sound despite other aging components needing restoration.

    Source

Critic Reviews

1971 Gibson SB-400 Bass Guitar >> FlyGuitars

flyguitars.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
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1 star
ddayusa

My first love

I bought one of these used more than 40 years ago and sold it for $75 at a yard sale in the 80s. I have regretted that ever since.

This short-range bass was terrific. I felt Jack Bruce flowing through my fingers as I played "Badge," "Sunshine of Your Love," "Tales of Brave Ulysses" and many other Cream hits. I still look for one in every shop I visit, although I know the odds are long. Not many of these were made. But someday, I'll have one again.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ron Asheton uses Gibson SB-400 Bass

Ron Asheton

Guitarist, Bassist

The Stooges

...
Verified via TalkBass.com

Ron Asheton was reportedly seen playing a Gibson SB-400 Bass during tours with Iggy and The Stooges around 1972-73. A discussion on TalkBass.com mentions a photo that suggests he used a long-scale SB-400 during this period.

See how True Widow uses Gibson SB-400 Bass

True Widow

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Google

In this photo you can see Nicole Estill's Gibson SB-400.

See how Nick Movshon uses Gibson SB-400 Bass

Nick Movshon

Bassist, Drummer

El Michels Affair

...
Verified via YouTube

In the live performance of "Make the Road by Walking" by Menahan Street Band on KCRW, Nick Movshon can be observed playing a Gibson SB-400 Bass.

See how Andy Fraser uses Gibson SB-400 Bass

Andy Fraser

Bassist

Free

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo posted on Andy Fraser's Facebook page, he is clearly seen using a Gibson SB-400 Bass.

Album Usage

The Gibson SB-400 Bass has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

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