Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,118

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson ES-335 Bass brings the classic charm of a semi-hollowbody to the bass world with a sleek, modern twist. Its design is a nod to the iconic EB-2, but with enhancements that make it a standout choice for today’s bassists. Crafted with precision, this bass features a robust 34" scale length that ensures optimal string tension for a tight, punchy sound—a must for contemporary music genres.

The dual humbuckers are strategically positioned to deliver a crisp and balanced tone, perfect for players who crave versatility in their music. The neck pickup, placed in the middle, and the bridge pickup work in tandem to offer a wide dynamic range, from warm, smooth lows to bright, articulate highs. The nitrocellulose lacquer finish not only gives the ES-335 an authentically vintage aesthetic but also enhances its resonance, allowing the instrument to truly sing.

Fine details like the bound rosewood fingerboard and the iconic maple center block add to the bass’s allure, both visually and sonically. This bass is not just about stunning looks; it’s about delivering a performance that’s as solid as its construction. Whether you’re grooving in the studio or rocking the stage, the Gibson ES-335 Bass is your ticket to legendary sound.

Key Features:

  • 34" scale length for optimal string tension
  • Dual humbucking pickups for versatile tone
  • Semi-hollowbody design with laminated maple body and top
  • Bound rosewood fingerboard on a maple neck
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish for enhanced resonance
  • Comes with a hardshell case for protection

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-335 Bass
Finish Cherry, Ebony, Vintage Sunburst
Year 2013 - 2016
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
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 kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gibson ES-335 Bass?

The Gibson ES-335 Bass features passive humbucking pickups that provide a warm, rich tone with pronounced low-end and midrange clarity, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres.

Is the Gibson ES-335 Bass suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson ES-335 Bass is a high-quality instrument, its unique semi-hollow body design and tonal characteristics might be better appreciated by intermediate to advanced players familiar with bass guitars.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson ES-335 Bass?

The Gibson ES-335 Bass features a comfortable, rounded neck profile, crafted from maple, which offers smooth playability and easy access across its 20 frets, suitable for various playing styles.

How does the semi-hollow body of the Gibson ES-335 Bass affect its sound?

The semi-hollow maple body of the Gibson ES-335 Bass delivers a resonant, airy tone with enhanced sustain and a natural acoustic quality, distinguishing it from solid-body basses.

What finish options are available for the Gibson ES-335 Bass?

The Gibson ES-335 Bass is available in Cherry, Ebony, and Vintage Sunburst finishes, each offering a classic and stylish look that complements its iconic design.

Guitarbank Moscow

Guitarbank Moscow

Gibson ES-335 Bass USA 2013 | Guitarbank

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-335 Bass USA 2013 | Guitarbank by Guitarbank Moscow

Gibson ES-335 Bass USA 2013 | Guitarbank

Guitarbank Moscow

Guitarbank Moscow

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-335 Bass USA 2013 | Guitarbank by Guitarbank Moscow

Gibson ES-335 Bass USA 2013 | Guitarbank

Guitarbank Moscow

Guitarbank Moscow

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson ES-335 Bass.

Comparisons

  • The Gibson ES-335 Bass is noted to sound similar to the Jack Cassidy but offers more versatility in tone.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bass is described as having a creamy low end with substantial Gibson low end and treble, making it less suitable for modern funk or metal.

    Source

User experience

  • The semi-hollow body is reported to sit awkwardly on a strap, leaning away from the player depending on strap length.

    Source
  • Owners praise the louder-than-expected sound when compared to similar semi-hollow basses like the EB-2.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's suggested that the ES-335 Bass could fit well with vintage and modern soul music, and reggae styles.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The addition of EB Cobalt Slinky Flatwounds is highlighted for enhancing the sound quality of the ES-335 Bass.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson ES-335 Bass Review : All Ears - Audiofanzine

audiofanzine.com

The Gibson ES-335 Bass impresses with its impeccable craftsmanship and versatile sound, echoing the brand's mastery in guitar production. Its dual humbuckers deliver a gritty yet refined tone, adaptable enough to rival a Jazz Bass. The 34" scale provides ideal tension for a comfortable play. However, the strap button's awkward placement limits stage movement, pushing players towards a seated position. Despite this design flaw, its rich harmonics and balanced sound make it a studio gem for diverse genres. At under 2000 euros, it offers exceptional value, though not the obvious choice for all tastes.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how George Harrison uses Gibson ES-335 Bass

George Harrison

Singer, Guitarist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

George Harrison play the bass

See how Tom Petty uses Gibson ES-335 Bass

Tom Petty

Guitarist, Singer

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via YouTube

Tom Petty can be seen playing an ES-335 bass on the Traveling Wilburys' clip of She's my baby. The Gibson logo is pretty clearly readable on the headstock, however the tunings seem to have been replaced by banjo-like tuning mechanicals.

See how Jeff Ament uses Gibson ES-335 Bass

Jeff Ament

Bassist

Pearl Jam

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Jeff is playing a black ES-335.

See how Cameron Avery uses Gibson ES-335 Bass

Cameron Avery

Guitarist, Drummer

Tame Impala

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "TAME IMPALA - Half Full Glass of Wine (FULL HD)" by infrared10, Cameron Avery is seen playing a Gibson ES-335 Bass during the concert.

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 ES-335 Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

DiMarzio ClipLock Strap
DiMarzio ClipLock Strap Straps & Strap Locks
1

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