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Gibson EB Series Sidewinder Pickup

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Page last updated Aug 11, 2025

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Description

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Discover the sound revolutionizing bass performance with the Gibson EB Series Sidewinder Pickup. Engineered specifically for bass guitars, this pickup is the embodiment of Gibson's commitment to delivering unparalleled tonal clarity and power. Its unique dual-coil design ensures a full-bodied sound that's both rich in depth and precise in articulation. Whether laying down a smooth groove or driving a hard-hitting line, the Sidewinder Pickup provides the versatility every bassist seeks.

Its innovative structure reduces unwanted noise and interference, allowing your true sound to shine through. The Sidewinder is the perfect choice for players who demand a pristine signal and dynamic range. Compatible with a wide range of bass models, this pickup is a testament to Gibson’s long-standing tradition of excellence in musical craftsmanship.

Whether you're in the studio or on stage, let the Gibson EB Series Sidewinder Pickup be your secret weapon for achieving that perfect bass tone. Its precise engineering and robust construction make it a reliable component in any musician's arsenal.

Key Features:

Unique dual-coil design for enhanced tonal clarity
Noise-reduction technology to minimize interference
Compatible with a variety of bass guitar models
Engineered for both studio and live performance settings
Robust construction for long-lasting durability

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Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

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The EB-F pickup is a Japanese-made reissue based on the Gibson Sidewinder, known for its thick, muddy tone.
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The Sidewinder pickup was historically used in four Gibson bass models, each with distinct body shapes (SG, violin, 335, and EB-3).
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The original 60s Gibson mudbucker is a high impedance sidewinder with two large coils, measuring approximately 30k.
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The EB-3's 4-channel switch, akin to a vari-tone/pickup selector, offers unique tonal versatility, particularly appealing for replicating Jack Bruce's sound.
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Comparisons

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The EB-0F model is similar to the EB-0 but includes a built-in fuzz pedal, differentiating it from other models using the Sidewinder pickup.
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EB-3 pickups likely come from old EB-3 basses, which feature an additional bridge pickup compared to the EB-0.
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Late 70s low impedance mudbuckers differ significantly in output, with some measuring around 2k DCR, offering a distinct tonal character.
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Seymour Duncan Hot (SPB2) pickups offer a thick P bass sound, a non-mudbucker alternative for capturing vintage Gibson EB tones.
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User experience

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The term "Mudbucker" is commonly used to describe the thick, muddy tone of the Gibson Sidewinder pickups from the 60s.
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Mods and upgrades

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The DiMarzio Model One is recommended for those seeking a mudbucker with less wooly but still substantial sound, ideal for series/parallel options.
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Artec EBC pickups are vintage spec but may require fixing wire or magnet issues; easy to install with a wood chisel.
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EMG Geezer Butler pickups deliver a crunchy thump, potentially similar to Gibson mudbuckers, and can be combined with a GOTOH 201b-4 bridge for enhanced performance.
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Use cases and applications

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Using a mudbucker in combination with a bridge pickup, like in the EB-2D, often results in a dominant, big, woofy sound despite added clarity and attack.
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Owners recommend pairing mudbuckers with P-bass pickups for a unique blend, particularly effective for replicating classic Cream-era Jack Bruce tones.
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Artist usage

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Cliff Burton

Bassist

Metallica

Verified via Photo

In a handwritten list Burton made for the orginal Metallica Fanclub in the summer of 1983, he lists his gear and modifications as follows:

"Right now, I'm using a Randall 300 watt head into: 1 Randall 1x18 cab and 1 road 2x18 cab."

"At this time I only use 2 effects. A Morley Power Wha Boost and an MXR Limiter."

"I play a Rickenbacker 4001 bass. The 2 stock pickups have been replaced as follows: In the bass position there's a "Gibson EB" pickup. In the treble position, there's a "Seymore Duncan Stacked Jazz" pickup. I have also had a 3rd pickup installed in the bridge. It's a "Seymore Duncan Stacked Strat." Both Duncan pickups are "Humbucking" in design so they help reduce unwanted noise."

Billy Sheehan

Guitarist, Bassist

UFO

Verified via YouTube

In this video at 1:35, Sheehan shows his original P-Bass "The Wife" and explains the modifications made to it:

"This is refered to as "The Wife", this is my original P-Bass that I got, I think it's a '68 or '69. Originally it was just a straight up P-Bass, normal, two knobs, one output, through the years I added this big fat Gibson EB-0 pickup, wired the volume and treble control for it, and I didn't know how to wire two pickups together, cause back in the day we didn't have like guitar workshops or luthiers, basicly you where on your own, and there was no internet so..."

Later at 3:56, Sheehan explains his inspiration for using the EB-0 pickup.

Chris Squire

Singer, Bassist

Yes

Verified via Photo

In these vintage photos from Rotosound's official website, we can see Squire stringing up what appers to possibly be another Rickenbacker RM1999 4001 import model, distinguishable by it's dot-inlays and binding on the top of the body (only one or the other of which was ever present on either model).

More interestingly, this Bass has also been modified with a Gibson EB Series Mudbucker pickup in the neck, an odd piece of equipment given both Squire's usual characteristic of having a "bright & clanky" Bass tone, and the fact that he was not seen playing this Bass frequently.