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Average Price: $1,710

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Step back in time with the Global Bass 70's Japan Gibson EB 3, an electric bass that embodies the iconic sound and style of the 1970s. Crafted in Japan, this bass guitar is a tribute to the timeless Gibson EB 3, known for its deep, resonant tones and distinctive design. The EB 3 was a favorite among rock and funk musicians of the era, and this version captures that same vintage vibe with precision and care.

This bass is equipped with dual humbucker pickups, providing a rich, full-bodied sound that can handle everything from smooth jazz grooves to hard-hitting rock riffs. Its short scale length makes it incredibly playable, offering a comfortable feel for both seasoned bassists and newcomers alike. The vintage tone circuitry is a standout feature, allowing players to dial in a variety of classic sounds, perfect for recreating those beloved retro vibes.

A solid mahogany body ensures durability and sustain, while the set neck construction adds to the instrument's overall stability and resonance. Whether you're jamming in your garage or performing on stage, the Global Bass 70's Japan Gibson EB 3 delivers a reliable and authentic playing experience that's sure to inspire.

Key Features:

  • Dual humbucker pickups for dynamic sound range
  • Short scale length for enhanced playability
  • Vintage tone circuitry for versatile sound shaping
  • Solid mahogany body for robust tone and durability
  • Set neck construction for superior resonance and stability

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EB-3
Finish Cherry, Ebony, Natural, Polaris White, Walnut
Year 1972 - 1979
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 Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Natural, Red, White
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
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Gibson EB-3 bass guitar?

The Gibson EB-3 offers a warm, deep tone with a pronounced low-end, characteristic of its mahogany body and dual humbucker pickups. It's well-suited for rock, blues, and funk genres.

Is the Gibson EB-3 bass guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gibson EB-3 is suitable for beginners due to its short scale length, which makes it easier to play and handle, especially for those with smaller hands.

How does the short scale of the Gibson EB-3 affect playability?

The short scale of the Gibson EB-3 provides a more comfortable playing experience with lower string tension, making it easier to fret notes and ideal for players seeking a smooth, relaxed feel.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson EB-3 bass guitar?

The Gibson EB-3 features a slim neck profile, allowing for quick and comfortable movement across the fretboard, suitable for various playing styles.

Does the Gibson EB-3 bass guitar have active or passive pickups?

The Gibson EB-3 is equipped with passive pickups, offering a classic, organic bass tone without the need for a battery-powered preamp.

eddievegas1

eddievegas1

1970 Orig EB-3 Gibson Vintage Bass Eddie Vegas www.eddievegas.com

Video thumbnail for 1970 Orig EB-3 Gibson Vintage Bass Eddie Vegas www.eddievegas.com by eddievegas1

1970 Orig EB-3 Gibson Vintage Bass Eddie Vegas www.eddievegas.com

eddievegas1

eddievegas1

Video thumbnail for Gibson EB 3 1970 Cherry Red Bass Guitar - MR. RIGHTNOW GEAR SHOWCASE by MR. RIGHTNOW

Gibson EB 3 1970 Cherry Red Bass Guitar - MR. RIGHTNOW GEAR SHOWCASE

MR. RIGHTNOW

MR. RIGHTNOW

Reviews

PROS

  • Mudbucker pickup delivers earth-shaking bass tones

  • Versatile tone suitable for various music genres

  • Short scale and narrow neck offer effortless playability

  • Vintage sound that captures the classic 60s and 70s vibe

  • Affordable for a vintage instrument from the 60s

  • Robust construction with a sturdy 3-piece maple neck

  • Original non-slotted headstock design

  • Customizable with modern bridge and electronics upgrades

  • Complements well with flatwound or black-nylon tapewound strings

  • Distinctive tone favored by Jack Bruce and Andy Frasier

CONS

  • Stock 3-point bridge design is notoriously problematic

  • Original electronics may require upgrades for optimal performance

  • Saddles on the stock bridge can easily fall out during string changes

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Global Bass 70's Japan Gibson EB 3.

Build quality

  • The neck's bolt-on design allows for easier adjustment but deviates from the typical set-neck of original Gibson EB-3 models, raising questions about authenticity or repairs.

    Source
  • Some modern Gibson basses have been reported with quality control issues, such as sharp frets and fretboards peeling off due to glue failure.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Several users agree that the bass should be valued around $400 to $500, suggesting the listed price of $950 is excessively high.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner described an emotional attachment to this model, indicating a strong personal preference and unique connection despite its perceived flaws.

    Source
  • The Gibson Ripper bass, with a modified 6-way rotary switch, is praised for its versatility, allowing individual control of the neck pickup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's noted that original Gibson EB-3s, even from 1969, can be found for slightly higher prices, offering potentially better value for those set on vintage authenticity.

    Source
  • The Epiphone Jack Casady bass is acknowledged for its versatility and recording quality, often compared favorably to its Gibson counterparts.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EB-3 model often suffers from neck dive, but some users mitigate this by routing the strap over the bottom fin for better balance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the stock bridge with a Hipshot model can significantly improve intonation and playability for the EB line.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Gibson EB-3 is noted for its fat, growling tone, making it suitable for classic rock, though not ideal for slap bass styles.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
loganmorin1of5

good bass

this instrument has beautiful, vintage sound and is incredibly fun to play. it is a little small for my taste, but otherwise, its a great bass

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