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Description

Introducing the Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar, a semi-hollow bass that pays homage to Gibson's classic shape and tone. With its single neck humbucker and shorter scale length, this guitar sets itself apart from its contemporaries. The EB-2's distinct tone and style have not only made it a Gibson classic, but also a preferred choice of legendary bassists like Chas Chandler of the Animals and John Entwistle. Embodying the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern functionality, the EB-2 Bass Guitar is indeed a testament to Gibson's commitment to quality and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollow bass guitar
  • Single neck humbucker
  • Shorter scale length
  • Classic Gibson shape and tone
  • Preferred by renowned bassists
  • Combines vintage charm with modern functionality

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EB-2
Finish Cherry, Natural, Sparkling Burgundy, Sunburst, Walnut
Year 1964 - 1972
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Short Scale Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown, Natural, Red, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
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
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Gibson EB-2 bass guitar?

The Gibson EB-2 features a short-scale length, which is approximately 30.5 inches. This makes it easier to play for those who prefer a more compact neck, offering a unique tonal quality often described as warm and punchy.

What kind of pickups does the Gibson EB-2 use?

The Gibson EB-2 is equipped with a single "Mudbucker" humbucking pickup, known for its deep, rich bass tones. This passive pickup configuration provides a classic, vintage sound signature that suits a variety of music styles.

Is the Gibson EB-2 suitable for beginners?

The Gibson EB-2, with its short scale and comfortable neck, can be suitable for beginners who are looking for a vintage-style bass with a unique sound. However, its distinctive tonal characteristics might appeal more to players with specific musical tastes or experience.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson EB-2?

The Gibson EB-2 features a maple body and top with a mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard. This combination of woods contributes to its resonant and warm sound, as well as its classic aesthetic appeal.

Can the Gibson EB-2 be used for modern music styles?

While the Gibson EB-2 is known for its vintage tone, it can be used in modern music styles that benefit from its warm and deep sound, such as blues, rock, and alternative. Its unique "Mudbucker" pickup offers a distinct tonal palette that can add character to contemporary genres.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

1958 Natural Gibson EB-2 | CME Vintage Demo | Mike Larsen

Video thumbnail for 1958 Natural Gibson EB-2 | CME Vintage Demo | Mike Larsen by Chicago Music Exchange

1958 Natural Gibson EB-2 | CME Vintage Demo | Mike Larsen

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass with Hang Tags | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass with Hang Tags | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1968 Gibson EB-2 Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1968 Gibson EB-2 Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson EB2 1964 Sunburst Semi Hollow Vintage Bass Guitar by SUYGtv

Gibson EB2 1964 Sunburst Semi Hollow Vintage Bass Guitar

SUYGtv

SUYGtv

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass | Guitar of the Day - Roberto Vally by Normans Rare Guitars

1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass | Guitar of the Day - Roberto Vally

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass Sunburst | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass Sunburst | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Story of my Gibson EB2 Bass by Clark Singleton

The Story of my Gibson EB2 Bass

Clark Singleton

Clark Singleton

Video thumbnail for Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar--Overview and Sound by Mixing Mastering Online

Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar--Overview and Sound

Mixing Mastering Online

Mixing Mastering Online

Reviews

PROS

  • Smooth, open, woody tone unique to hollow body basses

  • Vintage appeal with great patina and classic look

  • Easy to play with comfortable short-scale neck

  • Patented floating bridge with unique string muting feature

  • Ideal for blues, rock, and older music styles

  • Great for those seeking affordable vintage instruments

  • High-quality action and sound for an instrument over 50 years old

CONS

  • Limited tonal range compared to other basses like P bass

  • Requires short scale strings, which may not suit everyone

  • Hex screw on bridge can strip, requiring minor adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson EB-2.

Setup and maintenance

  • Straplocks are essential to prevent accidents with the semi-hollow body design.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The single pickup positioned against the neck is noted for producing a "muddy" yet appealing tone.

    Source
  • The EB-3's bridge pickup adds tonal definition compared to the EB-0, which is characterized by a consistently muddy tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for genres like jazz, soul, R&B, old school rock & roll, and funk according to owners.

    Source
  • Users often prefer the bridge pickup on the EB-3 for added clarity, contrasting the predominant neck pickup use on similar models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Similar in style and function to the Epiphone Rivoli, used by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's bassist.

    Source
  • The Gibson Midtown offers a long-scale, semi-hollow alternative with a neck humbucker, appealing to those who already own hollow-body basses.

    Source

User experience

  • A '62 EB-0 provides a singular sound, while the EB-3 offers more versatility, making it preferable for varied musical applications.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some players consider integrating the bridge pickup for additional tonal options, despite occasionally opting to roll it off during play.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 10 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
peasinafookinpod420

sick bass

after the EB-1 bass I got this bass guitar. It goes into my hollow body bass collection. I don't play it on anything, but noodle on it time to time.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Allen Woody uses Gibson EB-2

Allen Woody

Bassist

The Allman Brothers Band

...
Verified via Photo

Allen Woody often played a Gibson EB-2 onstage, as seen in this photo.

See how Doug Yule uses Gibson EB-2

Doug Yule

Bassist, Keyboardist

The Velvet Underground

...
Verified via Photo

Doug can be seen playing a Gibson EB-2 in this photo, possibly an Epiphone Rivoli but unlikely since the pickguard doesn't have the Epiphone 'E' logo

See how Devin Ruben Perez uses Gibson EB-2

Devin Ruben Perez

Bassist

DIIV

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live performance of Doused you can see Perez playing his Gibson EB-2 bass.

See how Chris Edwards uses Gibson EB-2

Chris Edwards

Bassist

Kasabian

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture you can see Chris playing a Gibson EB-2 Bass on stage

See how Chas Chandler uses Gibson EB-2

Chas Chandler

Bassist, Music Producer

The Animals

...
Verified via Photo

Chandler can be seen playing a Gibson EB-2 in this photo.

See how Howie Epstein uses Gibson EB-2

Howie Epstein

Singer, Guitarist

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via Photo

Howie can be seen holding a Gibson EB-2 in this photo.

See how Glenn Cornick uses Gibson EB-2

Glenn Cornick

Bassist

Jethro Tull

...
Verified via Photo

Cornick is seen playing a Gibson EB-2 Bass in this photo.

See how Russell Pritchard uses Gibson EB-2

Russell Pritchard

Bassist

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo, Russell Pritchard is playing a Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar.

See how Douglas Hart uses Gibson EB-2

Douglas Hart

Bassist

The Jesus and Mary Chain

...
Verified via Photo

Hart can be seen playing a Gibson EB 2 in this photo.

See how Magnus Sveningsson uses Gibson EB-2

Magnus Sveningsson

Bassist

The Cardigans

...
Verified via YouTube

Shown here and in other early Cardigans videos

See how Kristján Páll Kristjánsson uses Gibson EB-2

Kristján Páll Kristjánsson

Bassist

Of Monsters and Men

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, Kristján can be seen performing with the Gibson EB-2 Bass.

See how Steve Swallow uses Gibson EB-2

Steve Swallow

Bassist, Composer

Gary Burton Quartet

...
Verified via Bass Frontiers Magazine

"My transition from acoustic to electric bass is a long story, but the most succinct answer I’ve thought of is that this wasn’t something I elected to do. I didn’t choose the electric bass; it chose me. Like most jazz people I was deeply prejudiced against electric instruments, which to me lived in a world of blue suede shoes and pegged pants, but one day for no particular reason I picked up a Gibson EB2 and fell in love. There was nothing I could do about it; it was only a matter of time before I’d left the acoustic and moved in with the electric."

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson EB-2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Gibson Ripper Bass
Gibson Ripper Bass Electric Basses
2
Fender Mustang Bass
Fender Mustang Bass Electric Basses
2
Silvertone 1484 Twin Twelve
Silvertone 1484 Twin Twelve Guitar Amplifier Stacks
1
EarthQuaker Devices Arpanoid
EarthQuaker Devices Arpanoid Harmonizer & Octave Effects Pedals
1
Gibson EB-0
Gibson EB-0 Electric Basses
1
Gibson Grabber
Gibson Grabber Electric Basses
1

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