Hagstrom HIIB Bass

5.0 (2)

1 Review

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Page last updated Mar 06, 2026

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Description

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The Hagström HIIB Bass is a celebrated staple in the electric bass community, renowned for its fusion of classic design and modern performance. Introduced in the late 1960s, this instrument has been a favorite among musicians for its unique tonewood combination that delivers a rich, full-bodied sound. The HIIB Bass is crafted with a mahogany body and a maple neck, which ensures durability and a smooth playing experience. Its short scale length is perfect for players who prefer a more comfortable reach and a distinctive tonal character.

This bass features dual humbucking pickups, providing a versatile range of sounds from deep, punchy lows to crisp, articulate highs. The pickups are controlled by a straightforward configuration of volume and tone knobs, allowing musicians to effortlessly shape their sound on the fly. The signature Hagström headstock design and vintage-style tuners not only enhance its retro aesthetic but also ensure stable tuning and reliability during performances.

Whether you're laying down grooves in the studio or rocking out on stage, the Hagström HIIB Bass offers a unique blend of vintage appeal and modern functionality, making it a perfect addition to any bassist's collection.

Key Features:

Dual humbucking pickups for versatile sound
Mahogany body with maple neck for enhanced durability
Short scale length for comfortable playability
Vintage-style tuners for stable tuning
Classic Hagström headstock design

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hagström HIIB Bass.

Features and functionality

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The HIIB N SG model boasts a rare phase switch, enhancing tonal nuance and providing an old-school vibe with its unique out-of-phase sound.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners note that the early '70s hardware requires some TLC, but the bass remains solid and comfortable with a deep C-shaped neck.
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It's suggested to pair the HIIB with flatwound strings to enhance its innate vintage tone, resonating well with those seeking a '60s audio palette.
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Use cases and applications

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Installing Labella flats accentuates the bass's inherent clear and warm tone, making it ideal for achieving a big bottom end sound.
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The HIIB is suitable for direct recording into audio interfaces, appealing to those seeking vintage tones without an amplifier, especially in environments with limited electrical safety.
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Comparisons

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The Hagström HIIB bass is noted for achieving a similar vintage tone to short-scale basses used by bands like Altin Gun and Men I Trust, aligning with the desired '60s sound.
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Short-scale basses like the Hagström HIIB are recommended for players with smaller hands who desire a classic '60s sound, similar to the tones on McCartney's solo albums.
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User experience

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Owners who have used a variety of short-scale basses, including the Hagström HIIB, often describe them as more comfortable for extended playing sessions, especially for players with smaller hands.
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

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matiangel

almost 10 years ago

Excellent Vintage bass guitar!

70s sound. I have got one of them built on '73. Powerfull bass sound.

Artist usage

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Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

Verified via Photo

"... and if you look closely, you can barely see a sliver of a white Hagstrom bass in my hands! One of my very first instruments ... When putting my bass book together I searched high and low, to no avail, for a photo of this bass ... so I'm super pleased to share this moment of my long forgotten past." #digtheshorthair #garagebandsrule #HagstromHIIB

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBwL7WLAfKf/

Jack Antonoff

Singer, Guitarist

Bleachers

Verified via YouTube

In 2:04 into the video, Antonoff demonstrates how he came up with the bass line for "Don't Take The Money".

Ricky Wilson (B-52's)

Guitarist, Composer

The B-52's

Verified via YouTube

Ricky wilson's playing a Hagstrom HII bass guitar on Planet Claire as you can see on the 1983 Dortmund concert video.

Kathleen Hanna

Singer, Guitarist

Bikini Kill

Verified via guitarworld

“I also have a Hagstrom H-11 bass from the '60s. It’s painted with house paint, so I have no idea how it was painted originally or what color it was. It does not stay in tune, but it is just the thing I always write on and love to write with.” Kathleen Hanna said in an interview with GuitarWorld.com when asked if there's any gear she favors

Randy Meisner

Singer, Guitarist

Eagles

Verified via Photo

In this picture, Meisner is playing a Hagstrom bass

Jasper Verhulst

Bassist, DJ

Altın Gün

Verified via Premierguitar

1970s Hagstrom HIIB : "Only the bridge is not original, although the color is not original—someone shaved it to the natural wood color. The body and the neck belong together. It’s a Hagstrom—I don’t even know the type." - Jasper.

Eric Drew Feldman

Bassist, Keyboardist

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

Verified via YouTube

Color/Finish: Red Year: 1960s

In this concert commemorating the 20th anniversary of Frank Black's album Teenager of the Year, Eric Drew Feldman can be seen playing a Hagstrom HIIB bass. It's shown clearly in the 8:01 minute mark.