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Average Price: $1,000

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Gibson EB-0 Bass is a nod to the classic electric bass designs that continue to inspire musicians across genres. Introduced in the early 1960s, the EB-0 quickly gained a reputation for its deep, resonant sound, making it a staple for bassists who seek that distinctive, vintage tone. This short-scale bass guitar is ideal for players who prioritize comfort and playability without compromising on sound quality.

Equipped with a humbucking pickup, the EB-0 delivers a rich and powerful low-end. This pickup ensures that every note you play is full-bodied and resonant, whether you're laying down a groove in a live setting or recording in the studio. The solid mahogany body contributes to its warm tonal characteristics, while the rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability that bassists will appreciate during extended sessions.

The EB-0's simple yet effective control layout allows you to easily dial in your desired sound, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Whether you're playing rock, blues, or jazz, the Gibson EB-0 Bass is versatile enough to handle it all with ease.

Key Features:

  • Humbucking pickup for powerful, resonant sound
  • Short-scale design for enhanced playability
  • Solid mahogany body for warm tonal characteristics
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth action
  • Simple control layout for easy tone adjustments

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EB-0
Finish Cherry, Pelham Blue, Polaris White, Sparkling Burgundy
Year 1961 - 1968
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Short Scale Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Blue, Red, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of music is the Gibson EB-0 bass best suited for?

The Gibson EB-0, with its single humbucker pickup and mahogany body, is well-suited for rock, blues, and classic rock genres, offering a deep, warm tone with plenty of low-end punch.

How does the short scale of the Gibson EB-0 affect playability?

The short scale of the Gibson EB-0 makes it easier to play for those with smaller hands, providing a more comfortable reach across the fretboard and facilitating faster playing.

What are the tonal characteristics of the Gibson EB-0's pickup?

The Gibson EB-0 features a single humbucker pickup that delivers a thick, warm tone with a pronounced low-end, ideal for bassists seeking a vintage sound with a strong presence.

Is the Gibson EB-0 suitable for beginner bass players?

Yes, the Gibson EB-0 is suitable for beginners due to its short scale, which offers easier playability and a comfortable feel, making it an excellent choice for those new to bass playing.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson EB-0 like?

The Gibson EB-0 features a rounded neck profile that provides a comfortable grip, catering to players who prefer a more traditional feel while playing.

Empire Music

Empire Music

Epiphone EB-0 Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC

Video thumbnail for Epiphone EB-0 Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC by Empire Music

Epiphone EB-0 Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC

Empire Music

Empire Music

Video thumbnail for 1963 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1963 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1967 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1967 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Walnut | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Walnut | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson EB-0 Bass from 1963 presented by Vintage-Guitar Oldenburg by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson EB-0 Bass from 1963 presented by Vintage-Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for 1961 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Guitar of the Day - Greg Coates by Normans Rare Guitars

1961 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry | Guitar of the Day - Greg Coates

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1962 Gibson EB-0 Bass | Roberto Vally at Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1962 Gibson EB-0 Bass | Roberto Vally at Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson EB-0 Bass Find from Original Owner by Brian’s Unique Guitars

1965 Gibson EB-0 Bass Find from Original Owner

Brian’s Unique Guitars

Brian’s Unique Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson EB-0 bass from 1967 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Detlef Blanke by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson EB-0 bass from 1967 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Detlef Blanke

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers a rich and powerful sound with exceptional depth and warmth

  • Lightweight and comfortable for long playing sessions

  • Ergonomic body shape allows easy access to upper frets

  • Single-coil pickup provides deep, growling bass and excellent note articulation

  • Vintage design offers a unique playing experience

  • Short scale and wide neck make playing easier

  • Perfect sound for styles like proto-punk and classic rock

  • Provides a mellow, deep tone with large neck pickup

  • Easily integrates into various musical mixes with a calm, warm sound

  • Impressive build quality and stable tuning over extended play

CONS

  • Not suitable for all musical styles

  • More of a collector's piece than a versatile player instrument

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson EB-0.

Features and functionality

  • The neck-through construction allows easy access to higher frets and contributes to its lightweight design.

    Source
  • The 1972 model features a slotted headstock and has the neck pickup configuration, contrasting with earlier models with mid-position pickups for a potentially more versatile sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Best suited for genres like rockabilly and country due to its thumpy tone, though limited in versatility.

    Source
  • EB-0 is favored as a simple, inexpensive practice bass, suitable as a starter or spare despite its limited tone range.

    Source

User experience

  • Neck dive is noted but can be managed with a snug playing position or by adjusting the strap peg.

    Source
  • The bass is lightweight, making it ideal for travel, though not preferred for gigs by some users.

    Source
  • Some owners find the EB-3's neck dive severe, suggesting techniques like using the thumb on the neck pickup or threading the strap through a belt for balance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A thicker strap is recommended to manage neck dive, similar to recommendations for the SG bass.

    Source
  • A Guild JSII is suggested as an alternative, offering similar pricing but with additional switching options for sound versatility.

    Source
  • EB-0 offers less tonal variation compared to EB-3 due to having only one pickup, impacting sound versatility.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Intonation can be tricky with short scale models; adjustments without moving the bridge are possible.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A 1972 Gibson EB-0 at $1,300 USD is around market rate; recent sales show prices as low as $1,050, indicating room for negotiation.

    Source
  • Vintage EB-3s with slotted headstocks and small tuners can be found for under $2,000, with significant variation in pricing based on condition and repairs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

The Magic of the EB-0—Gibson's First Solid-Body Bass | Reverb News

reverb.com

The Gibson EB-0 Bass stands as a unique relic from the late '50s and early '60s, offering a thick, dark sound that diverges from the clarity of its Fender counterparts. Its short scale is guitarist-friendly, and its Sidewinder pickup delivers a distinct thump ideal for rock settings. However, its "mudbucker" reputation signals a lack of brightness and definition, potentially limiting its appeal. Despite this, for those craving a robust low-end and vintage charm, the EB-0 is a dream to play and remains a classic choice for filling wide sonic spaces.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
eheinzelman

My Long Time Bass.

When my original bass was stolen, my roommate, also a bass player, suggested that I search out an EB-O for the music I was playing at the time. I had been borrowing one if his P-basses. It took awhile but I finally found one in pieces and the finish stripped. Another buddy put it back together and finished it in black rather than the SG red. It has the perfect sound for the proto-punk stuff we were doing in Death (the Milwaukee version) in the early 1970s. Just a flat out loud sound and extremely easy to play! Just getting back into music and this is my go to instrument to get my fingers retrained!

ebebebeb

, Warm sound of classic rock

I love this bass, it gives a calm warm and beautiful sound that is very pleasant to the ears and fits perfectly into the mix

harrisporter

My Gib

1967 Gibson EB-0. My beautiful prized possession. Crafted in the late 60s by the hands of god.

G

Excellent through the test of time

I haven't played around with this bass yet, but so far it has been incredible to use. I managed to find a 1966 (WELL used) and couldn't look at it for long without buying it. I regret absolutely nothing about it, and considering most of it is original and it has large visible damage to the body, playing it is still a dream.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Asahito Nanjo uses Gibson EB-0

Asahito Nanjo

Singer, Bassist

High Rise

...
Verified via BandCamp

Seen playing an EB-0 on their Bandcamp profile pic

See how Eric Drew Feldman uses Gibson EB-0

Eric Drew Feldman

Bassist, Keyboardist

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

...
Verified via Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

The Gibson EB-0 is a favorite of Feldman’s when he’s not using his J-bass.

See how Jamaaladeen Tacuma uses Gibson EB-0

Jamaaladeen Tacuma

Bassist, Music Producer

Fool Proof

...
Verified

Jamaaladeen Tacuma uses a Gibson EB-0 bass guitar, as confirmed by a listing on his official website, which describes it as a "Vintage 1970 era EBO Gibson Made in USA bass guitar slotted head stock model, 4 string, short scale, mahogany neck, 70's spring mounted EB humbucker pickup with black plastic mount, situated right up against the neck, two point bridge without cover, original Schaller tuning heads made for Gibson signed, original pick card. Volume & Tone knobs have been replaced."

See how Keith Ellis uses Gibson EB-0

Keith Ellis

Bassist, Composer

Van der Graaf Generator

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Keith played Gibson EB-0.

See how David Knights uses Gibson EB-0

David Knights

Bassist

Procol Harum

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Red Cherry

n the image you can see David Knights with a Gibson EB-0

See how Jim Lea uses Gibson EB-0

Jim Lea

Bassist

Slade

...
Verified via Gibson

"After starting out playing a Gibson EB-0, he switched to an EB-3 in the late ‘60s, utilizing the instrument on essentially all of Slade’s classic material"

See how Nic Potter uses Gibson EB-0

Nic Potter

Bassist, Composer

Van der Graaf Generator

...
Verified via Photo

Nic can be seen here playing a Gibson EB-0. You can tell because the bass has only 2 control knobs and the single pickup close to the neck.

See how Carson Van Osten uses Gibson EB-0

Carson Van Osten

Bassist

Woody's Truck Stop

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 1:04, Carson played Gibson EB-0 painted in psychedelic colors.

See how Úlfur Hansson uses Gibson EB-0

Úlfur Hansson

...
Verified via Facebook

Hansson can be seen playing a Gibson EB-0 in this photo.

See how Samuli Haataja uses Gibson EB-0

Samuli Haataja

Bassist

The Crash

...
Verified via YouTube

In this vid @0.22 you can spot this bass

See how Eddie Shaw uses Gibson EB-0

Eddie Shaw

Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, you can see that Eddie Shaw is using a Gibson EB-0 Bass.

Album Usage

The Gibson EB-0 has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson EB-0, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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