1962 Gibson EB-0 bass

• Early 'chunky' neck • EB humbucker, black bakelite cover • Nickel hardware • Cherry finish • Mahogany body and neck • Rosewood fretboard

An early EB-0

Solid Mahogany body, one-piece mahogany neck with 20-fret Brazilian rosewood fretboard and pearl dot inlay markers. Single humbucking pickup. 30 1/2 inch scale. The earliest Gibson EB0 basses were characterised by the black bakelite-covered humbucker. Produced at Gibson's legendary Kalamazoo plant, USA, in the golden age of Gibson guitar production. The first thing you notice when you pick up this bass is the fat 'clubby' neck. Not actually wider than mid 1960s EBs (This one is 1 3/4" at the nut), but thicker; for example this 1964 EB0 has the same (approximately) neck width at the nut, but an everso slightly shallower profile: it is hard to measure, and is perhaps just 2-3mm (about 10% of the total thickness), but this feels far more significant than the numbers might suggest. Bodies are identical on both of these basses.

Dating this bass is not hard. The potentiometers are stamped 1346241 (which gives a pot production date of October 1962, and the serial number is either 1962 (Bishop) or very early 1963 (Blue Book). 1962 was the second year that the EB0 bass was manufactured in the SG, or 'new Les Paul' shape, and a total of 815 EB0s were made in that year. See EB-0 shipping stats.

Like all short scale basses, the EB-0 requires short scale strings - and these basses sound incredible with flatwounds.

The October 1962 Gibson price list puts the EB0 at $210 (US zone 1 price) - at the same time, the Fender Precision bass was listed at $229.50.

The components of this bass are typical early sixties: the EB humbucker has a Bakelite cover, whilst the bar bridge and hand rest were nickel plated. The underbridge mute was not fitted to the earliest EB basses at the factory, and one was never fitted to this instrument. The control knobs are 'bell' type as widely used on Gibson guitars and basses from this period.

The grain pattern on this bass clearly shows that this body is just one piece of wood. One piece of very fine South American mahogany. Cherry-finished EB basses are very prone to fading, and browning over time; this one still has some good colour to it, especially on the front, less-so on the reverse.

The Gibson EB humbucker has a massive output, creating some of the heaviest, boomiest bass sounds available.

The black Bakelite pickup cover was fitted to the EB0 bass until late 1962/early 1963 when a nickel version was introduced (see a 1964 EB-O). The pickup beneath the cover remained unchanged. The cover is simply held in place with four screws, and it sits onto the polepieces of the pickup below, holding it in place.

The controls could not be more simple; one volume and one tone control. You can read more about the circuitry and potentiometers used etc here.

The bell control knobs were swapped for witch-hats around 1967.

The bridge consists of a single metal bar, and two posts with mounting holes set into the body wood of the guitar. Although not intonatable string by string, the whole bridge could be adjusted via two hex screws; one at each post. This early nickel bar bridge was replaced by a chromed version from 1965.

Gibson bass hand rests were initially nickel-plated, changing to chrome in around 1965. It is simply attached to the body wood by two small screws.

The cherry finish is fading in places, and this accentuates the mahogany grain patterns on the body. Exposure to sunlight is often the reason behind such fading, but notice that the back of the neck has also yellowed; it seems early EB basses are more prone to yellowing where they are handled (presumably due to a reaction with sweaty hands?)

Note the 'small' control cavity - compare this to the standardised cavity of a 1966 Gibson EB0.

Serial number on the back of the headstock, above Kluson 538 tuning keys. Although the neck of this bass is manufactured from one piece of mahogany, the two edges of the headstock, or headstock wings, are actually glued in place. The difference in grain can clearly be seen in this image.

You can read more about Gibson serial numbers here

The early 1960s EB0s had an inlaid Gibson logo, and an inlaid crown motif - but raised above center in the headstock. Compare this to the headstock of a 1966 EB0 in which the crown is more centrally positioned. Note also the typical early 1960s truss rod cover with wider revealed edge (white) that in later years.

The one-piece neck and solid headstock. Kluson 538 tuners. No volute. Note the wide neck - 1 3/4" (43mm) at the nut - very much a feature of early sixties examples; this had dropped to 1 1/2" by the end of the decade. It is also noticeably thicker than many later EB basses, perhaps only by 2-3 mm, but this is very noticeable when in use, and a feature quite sought by collectors and players.

1962 Gibson EB bass components

Notice the inlaid Gibson logo and solid headstock with crown inlay situated above centre. In late 1963/early 1964 this crown was repositioned to be more centralised on the headstock (compare with a 1964 EB-0). Components are typical for a bass of this era: Nickel two point bar bridge, nickel hand rest (positioned centrally - not to be confused with the bridge covers employed at the end of the decade, see a 1969 EB-0), black bakelite-covered EB humbucker directly at the end of the neck. Although the cover itself is black, the pickup underneath it is no different from the nickel-covered examples employed on EB basses over the following few years. This EB-0 uses Kluson 538 tuning keys.

1962 Gibson EB-0 wiring

The pictures on the right show two views of the wiring loom for this bass, accessible by removing the black plastic plate on the reverse body of the bass. It is a simple circuit, consisting of a volume and tone control (potentiometers), an output jack, and two capacitors. Both pots are identical; Centralab 500K audio taper, part number BA811-1053. Click the images for larger versions, of these images, and to see a circuit wiring plan.

This bass is typical of the EB0 shown in the 1962 and 1964 Gibson catalogues.

Gibson EB-0 bass guitars for sale

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Vintage 1961, Original Style Gibson EB-0 Bass, Cherry Red, GREAT PRICE

Agoura Hills, California, 913**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4750

A reasonably priced, 1961 Cherry Red EB-0 Bass. Very nice Condition
No cracks or damage
The Cherry Red finish has faded on the front, but it has a very nice vibe and patina 1961 is the last of the Thicker Double-Cutaway body style before Gibson introduced the SG style bodies The bass plays very nicely and has just been setup with Brand New D'Addario Short scale Round wound strings
This bass is original except the Pots have been replaced.
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Gibson EB0 Bass 1968 Sparkling Burgundy Rare Factory Finish OSC

Manville, Rhode Island, 028**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2500

This a Rare Factory Custom Finish. Sparkling Burgundy. Thebass is in nice shape Unfaded deep Burgundy color & very light horizontalchecking The bass is all original but has suffered a crack to its controlcavity. The crack has been repaired & touched up. See photos Still a greatbass that plays great & sounds like an EB0. Great looking rare bass. Comesin original nice shape soft shell case
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1969 Gibson Bass Guitar EB-0

Arlington, Indiana, 461**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1500

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1963 Gibson EB-0 Vintage Short Scale SG Bass Cherry w / Mudbucker, Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2800

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1960??s GIBSON Bass EB-3 EB-2 EB-0 Hand Rest Cover

Houston, Texas, 770**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

This vintage hand rest cover is a must-have for any Gibson EB-3, EB-2, or EB-0 Bass guitar enthusiast. Made in the 1960s, this cover is a true piece of music history. The cover is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and is made from high-quality materials to ensure durability.

The cover features the iconic Gibson logo and is a great addition to any vintage musical instrument collection. Whether you are a seasoned musician or a collector, this hand rest cover is a unique and... more

1971 Gibson EB-0 Bass Walnut w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1395

1971 Gibson EB-0 In Walnut Finish
This Bass Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Repaired Headstock As Shown
Finish Shows Some Cosmetic Playwear Including Small Dings, Marks, And Scratches Throughout
Original Hardware And Electronics
Made In Kalamazoo, MI
Mahogany Body And Neck With Rosewood Fingerboard And Dot Inlays
Original Humbucker Pickup In Neck Position
Original Frets Low But Playable
30 5" Scale Length
1 ... more

1967 Gibson eb-0 bass. lots of patina and finish checking. has hard case cm23ess

Albany, Georgia, 317**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2500

has been tested and checked over. plays great and looks very vintage. has a decent amount of belt buckle wear and dings. please see pics for condition... more

Gibson 1960 EB-0 Bass Guitar Cherry

Rochester, New York, 146**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5999

Here we have a very historic bass guitar from Gibson, an EB-0 from 1960.
This is a double cut solid body guitar, featuring banjo-style tuners and a one pickup design. Condition-wise this piece is in great playing and sounding condition, and bears typical signs of wear and tear. Small dings, checking, and scratches can be seen on the surface, as well as more checking and wear up the neck (as seen). This will include a non original case.... more

1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Rare Slotted Head w / Original Case (EXC ) Stunning!!

Racine, Wisconsin, 534**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3995

1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass w / Original Case (EXC ) Stunning!!. Slotted headstock with original Gibson tuners!! Perfect for the collector!! This bass is in exceptional condition and so is the original case!! You will not find one in better condition!! Simply amazing!! Has new strings and comes with a beautiful vintage ??Made in Mexico?? leather strap!! Everything 100% original!! Thanks for looking!!
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Gibson Classic 1966 EBO Bass Guitar

Adrian, Michigan, 492**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2100

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Gibson EB-0 BASS with Slotted Headstock 1969 - Cherry

Jackson, Michigan, 492**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2795

Another New Arrival!
We offer a RARE Slotted Headstock Gibson EB-0 Bass Guitar "Short Scale" S / N: 928316 which I believe makes this a 1969These had what they called "Mudbucker" pickups which sound much fuller and deeper than your standard pickups. They sound really cool!I understand that these short scale basses are easier for guitar player to pick and play. I have to agree It all works as it should This Bass has seen to use but is just honest playing and not abused. Check out the pics and ... more

1965 Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Bass Guitar w / Original Case READ DESCRIPTION

Missoula, Montana, 598**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2796

Bass has some finish cracks all over the body. See pic 4, I??ve tried to capture it. Very common for its age. No major blemishes, but not mint condition. Mute still works great, all original pickups still sound like they did in the 60s.

I have the original case, but it wasn??t easily accessible at the time of posting. I may have updated or would be happy to add pics if a serious buyer wants them. Case is in rugged condition.

Thanks. Please ask questions before bidding. ... more

Vintage 1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Guitar 5 String

Dayton, Ohio, 454**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

This vintage Gibson EB-0 Bass Guitar is a true gem for any musician. With its customized 5 string design and powerful sound, it's sure to impress any bass player. The guitar has been well-maintained and has a beautiful finish that shines under any lighting.

The brand speaks for itself, with a reputation for quality that Gibson has built over the years. This electric bass guitar is perfect for any music style and is sure to make a statement in any band. Whether you're a ... more

1967 Gibson EBO SG Bass Cherry Red

Doylestown, Pennsylvania, 189**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

1967 Gibson EBO SG shaped Bass Cherry RedNo caseWeight: 7 LBSMissing the cover that goes over the strings otherwise all original as far as I can tellNeck is straight and plays very good
D-Town Guitars1109 N Easton Rd Doylestown PA 18902 mon-fri 12-8pm sat 11-3pm EST- closed on sundays
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1970 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Finish Electric Bass Guitar

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1895

1970 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Finish Electric Bass Guitar
Located At IVG Burbank
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Cherry Finish Shows Some Dings And Playwear
Added Single Coil Pickup
Mahogany Body And Neck
Rosewood Fingerboard
Weight 7lbs 8oz
Nut Width 1 514 "
Neck Depth At 1st Fret .82 "
Neck Depth At 12th Fret 1 00 "
No Case. One May Be Purchased For An Additional Fee (Please Inquire)
Made In USA
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Gibson EBO Bass Guitar 1967 solid wood cherry finish made in the US with case

Lebanon, New Jersey, 088**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2100

This Gibson EBO Bass Guitar is a rare gem for any musician. Crafted in the US in 1967, this solid wood guitar features a cherry finish that shines under any lighting. With its 4-string configuration and electric bass type, it's perfect for any right-handed player looking for a high-quality instrument The guitar comes with a case, making it easy to transport and protect while on the go. Its brand, Gibson, is well-known for producing top-of-the-line guitars that are both durable and powerful. This... more

GIBSON 1968-7O SLOT-HEAD EB-O EB-3 BASS CASE BLACK TOLEX RED LINING VERY CLEAN!

Berlin, New Hampshire, 035**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$349

FREE USA SHIPPING!
(for a limited time)
This month The Bass Palace will be listing 15 to 20 vintage cases from The Swami's own personal collection. Most of these are in primo condition and some are actually NOS. There are even some seldom-seen ones to be offered. These are the cream-of-the-crop if you are looking for a case worthy of your own special instrument. As an intro I am offering FREE shipping to the lower 48 thru 11 / 15 (a $40-60 savings)! But make no mistake, once the sale ... more

Vintage Early 1960's Gibson EB-0 / EB-2 Bass Bridge Mute

Brooklyn, New York, 112**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$175

Vintage Early 1960's Gibson EB-0 / EB-2 Bass Bridge Mute
Very Good Condition Sold by a mom & pop music store in Brooklyn NY
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1959 1960 GIBSON EB-0 Slab Body BASS PICKGUARD USA

Houston, Texas, 770**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

Early slab body pick guard . Cut a little to fit replace pickup. Just a shave off it
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Vintage 1968 Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Electric Bass w / Case, Setup SN: 5674

Denton, Texas, 762**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1900

This is a Vintage 1968 Gibson EB-0 SG-Style Short-Scale Electric Bass w / Single Humbucker, Original Case, Professional Setup SN: #5674!This bass's serial number is #955674 This particular bass weighs 7 pounds 12 2 ounces The pictures are of the actual instrument for sale
If you have any information regarding this bass, please send us a message and let us know! We've tried our best, I promise, to make sure everything we've put in this listing is true and honest! Having said that, this ... more

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