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Average Price: $4,075

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into the world of classic bass sounds with the Gibson EB-1 Bass, an instrument that marries vintage charm with modern playability. Originally introduced in 1953, the EB-1 is known for its unique violin-shaped body, offering a retro aesthetic that stands out on any stage. This electric bass guitar has been a favorite among musicians for its warm, full-bodied tone, which is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.

Crafted with a solid mahogany body and neck, the EB-1 ensures durability and a rich resonance. Its sidewinder humbucking pickup is a defining feature, delivering a powerful and punchy sound that can cut through any mix. The short 30.5-inch scale length makes it incredibly comfortable to play, especially for those who prefer a lighter touch. A rosewood fretboard provides smooth action and easy navigation across the frets, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned players.

Whether you're laying down the groove in a jazz ensemble or rocking out on a larger stage, the Gibson EB-1 Bass offers versatility and a distinct character that can enhance any musical setting. Its distinctive look and feel make it not just an instrument, but a piece of musical history.

Key Features:

  • Violin-shaped solid mahogany body
  • Sidewinder humbucking pickup for powerful tones
  • 30.5-inch short scale length for easy playability
  • Rosewood fretboard for smooth action
  • Classic design with modern playability

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EB-1
Finish Brown
Year 1953 - 1958
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 Violin
Color Family Brown
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson EB-1 bass?

The Gibson EB-1 features a rounded neck profile that is comfortable for players, particularly those used to vintage-style basses. Its short scale and 19-fret design make it easy to navigate for both beginners and seasoned musicians.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Gibson EB-1 pickups?

The Gibson EB-1 is equipped with a single humbucking pickup, known for producing a warm and deep tone with a strong low-end presence. This makes it ideal for genres like rock, blues, and jazz where a rich bass sound is desired.

Is the Gibson EB-1 suitable for beginners or advanced players?

The Gibson EB-1 is suitable for both beginners and advanced players due to its user-friendly short scale and rich tonal characteristics. Its classic design and playability make it a versatile choice for any bassist.

How does the mahogany body of the Gibson EB-1 affect its sound?

The mahogany body of the Gibson EB-1 contributes to its warm, resonant sound, providing a rich and full bass tone. This wood choice enhances the overall sustain and depth, making it a favorite among bassists seeking a vintage vibe.

Is the Gibson EB-1 a short-scale bass?

Yes, the Gibson EB-1 is a short-scale bass, which typically measures around 30 inches in scale length. This makes it easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact instrument.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

1956 Gibson EB-1 Bass | Guitar of the Day

Video thumbnail for 1956 Gibson EB-1 Bass | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1956 Gibson EB-1 Bass | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1961 Gibson EB-1 | CME Vintage Demos | Mike Larsen by Chicago Music Exchange

1961 Gibson EB-1 | CME Vintage Demos | Mike Larsen

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Revolutionary 1953 Gibson EB-1 by Tweed Couch Guitar

Revolutionary 1953 Gibson EB-1

Tweed Couch Guitar

Tweed Couch Guitar

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson EB-1.

Features and functionality

  • The Gibson EB-1 features a fast "D shaped" neck, wider at the nut, similar to a Geddy Lee Jazz bass but with a lighter build.

    Source
  • The EB-1's sound can struggle to stand out in band settings unless using distortion pedals, especially in genres with multiple layers of instruments.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight its light weight and ease of playability, particularly noting easy access to higher frets.

    Source
  • Owners report that some Gibson basses, like the EB-1, feel heavy and neck-heavy, which can impact playability during longer sessions.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners have added foam pads under pickups to address uneven volume issues, due to needing to raise the pickups.

    Source

Build quality

  • The paint on the Gibson EB-1 is noted for scratching off easily, indicating potential durability concerns with the finish.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Gibson basses, including the EB-1, are often considered less versatile than Fender basses in terms of tonal options and mix presence.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Gibson basses, notably the Thunderbird, are favored in power punk/noise rock settings for their distinctive tone when paired with distortion.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users feel that older Gibson basses, over ten years, offer better quality, suggesting potential value in second-hand purchases over new models.

    Source
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
peasinafookinpod420

wonderful

used it during my early days in a local blues rock band called The Local Blues Band. it worked magic and on many of my new basses have the mudbucker neck pickup.

hyouma_aiiro

Great for Human Buddhist World

I use for the Blast3R Human Buddhist World

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Geddy Lee uses Gibson EB-1

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Lee's Gibson EB-1 can be seen over his friend's left sholder toward the back among his other basses.

See how John Entwistle uses Gibson EB-1

John Entwistle

Singer, Bassist

The Who

...
Verified via Photo

A photo shows two Gibson EB-1 basses belonging to John Entwistle.

See how Chris Squire uses Gibson EB-1

Chris Squire

Singer, Bassist

Yes

...
Verified via Photo

According to the official Yes website, bassist Chris Squire played a Gibson EB-1 bass guitar.

Full article here.

See how Jack Bruce uses Gibson EB-1

Jack Bruce

Singer, Bassist

Cream

...
Verified via Photo

Jack used the Gibson EB - 1 at Cream’s 2005 reunion.

Jack usó este Gibson EB - 1 en la reunión de Cream en 2005.

See how Bob Daisley uses Gibson EB-1

Bob Daisley

Bassist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via Bobdaisley

On page 4 of the slide show. Previously owned by Olsie Robinson, Little Richard's bassist.

See how Richard Hell uses Gibson EB-1

Richard Hell

Singer, Bassist

Television

...
Verified via Discogs

On the cover of a live album of Hell-era Heartbreakers ‘What Goes Around’ recorded on July 7, 1975 and November 16, 1975 that was issued after the death of co-frontman Johnny Thunders in 1991, you can clearly see Hell playing a Gibson EB-1 bass, and evidence suggesting that it is a copy can be debunked by the clarity of the headstock on the album cover on Discogs

See how Bobby Vega uses Gibson EB-1

Bobby Vega

Bassist

Don't Push The Clown

...
Verified via Bassplayer

"My first real bass was a Gibson EB-1" Bobby says in the article

See how Denny Laine uses Gibson EB-1

Denny Laine

Singer, Guitarist

Wings

...
Verified via Gettyimages

In the Getty Images photo, Denny Laine is pictured playing a Gibson EB-1 Bass. Although the bass appears to be strung for a left-handed player, suggesting it might belong to Paul McCartney, Laine is clearly using it during this performance with Wings circa 1976.

See how Felix Pappalardi uses Gibson EB-1

Felix Pappalardi

Singer, Bassist

Mountain

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 1:00, Pappalardi can be seen preforming live a Gibson EB-1 Violin Bass.

See how Allen Woody uses Gibson EB-1

Allen Woody

Bassist

The Allman Brothers Band

...
Verified via Photo

Woody can be seen here playing a Gibson EB-1.

See how Brent Wilson uses Gibson EB-1

Brent Wilson

Bassist

Panic! at the Disco

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:05 seconds in this video you can see Brent playing a Gibson EB-1 Bass

T

Tom Evans

Singer, Guitarist

Badfinger

...
Verified via YouTube

Tom got this bass during the 2nd incarnation of Badfinger and can be seen playing it in a promo for "Lost Inside Your Love".

Album Usage

The Gibson EB-1 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.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson EB-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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Tacoma Thunderchief Acoustic & Acoustic-Electric Basses
1
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Acme Low B-2 Speakers & Accessories
1

Community setups

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jonlars

jonlars

Gear IQ 66

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