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Average Price: $4,599

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson EB-2D Hollowbody Bass is a distinguished instrument that blends vintage charm with modern playability, making it a beloved choice for bassists seeking both style and substance. This electric bass, crafted by Gibson's expert luthiers, features a semi-hollowbody design that delivers rich, resonant tones ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres. Its dual-pickup configuration combines a humbucker at the neck position and a mini-humbucker at the bridge, offering a versatile sonic palette that can adapt to a range of musical styles.

The short-scale neck enhances playability, making it easier to execute fast runs and complex chords. The EB-2D's distinct sound is further complemented by its built-in "Baritone" switch, which offers a bass boost for those moments when you need to cut through the mix with power and clarity. This vintage-inspired bass is not just about aesthetics; it's about delivering a performance experience that is both dynamic and nuanced.

The Gibson EB-2D is a testament to the brand's legacy of quality and innovation, making it a valuable addition to any musician's collection.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design for warm, resonant sound
  • Dual-pickup configuration with neck humbucker and bridge mini-humbucker
  • Short-scale neck for enhanced playability
  • Built-in "Baritone" switch for additional tonal versatility
  • Vintage-inspired aesthetics with modern performance capabilities

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EB-2D
Year 1966 - 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 Black, 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 HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

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

The Gibson EB-2D features a short scale length, which measures 30.5 inches. This shorter scale can provide a warmer tone and is often easier to play for those with smaller hands.

What type of pickups does the Gibson EB-2D have?

The Gibson EB-2D is equipped with passive humbucking pickups. This configuration includes a "Mudbucker" neck pickup and a mini-humbucker bridge pickup, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities.

Is the Gibson EB-2D suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Gibson EB-2D is well-suited for rock music. Its powerful humbucking pickups and short scale length deliver a deep, punchy tone that is favored by many rock bassists.

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

The Gibson EB-2D features a maple body and top, with a mahogany neck and a rosewood fretboard. These materials contribute to its rich tone and classic look.

How many frets does the Gibson EB-2D have?

The Gibson EB-2D has 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and playability across the fretboard.

The Local Pickup

The Local Pickup

Episode 22: 1969 Gibson EB-2D Bass

Video thumbnail for Episode 22: 1969 Gibson EB-2D Bass by The Local Pickup

Episode 22: 1969 Gibson EB-2D Bass

The Local Pickup

The Local Pickup

Video thumbnail for 1967 Gibson EB2D, Sunburst by Andy Baxter Bass & Guitars

1967 Gibson EB2D, Sunburst

Andy Baxter Bass & Guitars

Andy Baxter Bass & Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Owners report that the sharp edge on the body is not uncomfortable, particularly for those accustomed to playing basses with a similar design, like Rickenbackers.

    Source
  • The bass is highly sought after, often considered a "bucket-list" instrument, with strong emotional value for enthusiasts.

    Source
  • The allure of the EB-2D is often tied to its aesthetic beauty and historical significance, which enhances its desirability among collectors.

    Source
  • Owners report significant envy from other musicians, highlighting the EB-2D's desirability and aesthetic appeal in the community.

    Source
  • A purchase intended for resale can quickly turn into a keeper after experiencing its unique playability and sound.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some players enhance the sound by disconnecting the choke, which can alter the tonal characteristics significantly.

    Source
  • Consider restoring missing parts like the bridge cover and baritone button to maintain authenticity and possibly increase value.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Straplocks are essential for the EB-2D to prevent costly accidents, especially on a semi-hollow body.

    Source
  • Switching from rotosound flats to DR Lo Riders enhances playability for some, with plans to try D'Addario or Thomastik flats for potential tonal improvements.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EB-2D's single pickup positioned near the neck contributes to its distinct "muddy" tonal quality, which is favored by some players.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EB-2D has been likened to the Epiphone Rivoli, suggesting similar tonal characteristics and aesthetic appeal suitable for various genres.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The bass is versatile enough for jazz, soul, R&B, old school rock & roll, and funk, making it adaptable across musical styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Even in less-than-perfect condition, the EB-2D can be valued between $1,000-$1,300, suggesting a strong market demand.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jack White uses Gibson EB-2D

Jack White

Singer, Guitarist

The White Stripes

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:49 in the video, you can see that Jack White using an EB-2D. Although this is technically part of the EB-2 family of basses, the 2D can be distinguished from other models of the EB-2 by the presence of a mini humbucker in the bridge position.

See how Peter Hook uses Gibson EB-2D

Peter Hook

Singer, Bassist

Joy Division

...
Verified via YouTube

In a live 1984 performance of "Age Of Consent" by New Order, Peter Hook plays a custom Gibson EB-2D Hollowbody Bass. The instrument, seen at 4:35 in the YouTube video, features a classic Humbucker pickup in the neck position and incorporates active electronics from a Yamaha BB1200.

See how Luis Alberto Spinetta uses Gibson EB-2D

Luis Alberto Spinetta

Singer, Guitarist

Pescado Rabioso

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, we see Spinetta performing with a late 60s style Gibson EB-2D in sunburst, identifiable by its four volume/tone knobs, rather than the two of the standard EB-2.

See how Enrique "Quique" Rangel Arroyo uses Gibson EB-2D

Enrique "Quique" Rangel Arroyo

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Enrique "Quique" Rangel Arroyo uses the Gibson EB-2D Hollowbody Bass with Café Tacvba, as evidenced by this photo from 2013.

See how Fred Fortin uses Gibson EB-2D

Fred Fortin

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Fred Fortin played mostly a Gibson EB-2D with Gros Mené around 2012-2014, and in Galaxie shows as well.

See how Naomi Yang uses Gibson EB-2D

Naomi Yang

Singer, Bassist

Galaxie 500

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture from ~1989 Yang can be seen playing a Gibson EB-2D

See how Rushton Moreve uses Gibson EB-2D

Rushton Moreve

Bassist

Steppenwolf

...
Verified via Photo

He can be seen wearing this bass, in a Sunburst finish, in this photo. I believe it is the 2D because of the time of the photo (1968) and the release of the 2D being not too far back before this photo.

See how Brian Cole uses Gibson EB-2D

Brian Cole

Singer, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

The famous Windy promotional video starts with Brian Cole opening the song on what seems to be his Gibson EB-2D bass. Brian used that bass ever since he joined the Associations and has since used that bass until his death in 1972. His bass's whereabouts came onto the hands of his son, who restored the bass (according to an article).

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-2D, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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Mesa Boogie 4x12 Cab 4JB Half Back Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
1
Mesa/Boogie Bass 400+ Amp Head
1

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