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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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

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.
There is also an added Strap Button on the... 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!!
... more

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

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

$2800

Up for sale, a 1963 Gibson EB-0 in perfect working order, 100% original save for a refret and carved bone nut, and complete with a hardshell case. Introduced in 1959 in response to declining sales of the EB-1, the EB-0 originally came with a Les Paul Junior style body, quickly superseded by the SG style body (like the example seen here) in 1961. Lightweight at 7lbs 7oz with solid mahogany construction, this bass delivers pure, fat low-end thump courtesy of the famous "Mudbucker" pickup. The rich... 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

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

Vintage 1967 Gibson EB-0 Short Scale 4 String Bass - Cherry - Don Storck Custom

Edmond, Oklahoma, 730**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2500

Awesome bass. Original electronics and hardware. Still has the string dampener and it works! Great tone. This is a two-owner guitar from Oklahoma City. It was played lovingly by its original owner, Don Storck, from the time that he purchased it new by in 1967 at different gigs over the years. It has earned its wonderful patina from years of playing, and it looks great. It has all the expected finish checking that you would expect to see on a guitar of this vintage. The second pick guard was ... more

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
... more

Vintage Gibson EB-0 Cherry 1963

Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2499

Vintage Gibson EB-0 Cherry 1963
PLEASE CONTACT US WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR AN IN-HAND DESCRIPTION
A dynamite player with an ultra cool, true vintage vibe! The full size neck humbucker offers a warm, rich tone & the short scale makes playing tons of fun. Professionally set up & ready to play straight out of the case
Cosmetic Condition: Various nicks, chips, dents & dings; scratches, weather checking & some finish wear. LH3064 is scratched into the back of the ... more

Gibson Classic 1966 EBO Bass Guitar

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

$2100

This is a rare and collectible 1966 Gibson Classic EBO bass guitar in a stunning red color. With its 4-string configuration, this electric bass guitar is perfect for any musician who wants to make a statement. The Gibson brand is known for its quality and excellence, and this Classic series bass guitar is no exception. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar is sure to impress. It's perfect for playing a wide range of musical styles and is ideal for both live ... more

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

1969 Gibson EB-0 one owner bass with original custom hard sided case.

Patchogue, New York, 117**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2000

1969 Gibson EB-0 one owner bass with original custom hard sided case. See pic of original owner with the bass in the early ?70s ! Both the bass and case show wear from decades of use. There are scuffs, scratches, dings, and dents as you would expect. There is a split in the headstock that extends for approximately 7 inches, see photo. Electronics appear to be untouched all original. As shown in pic, date code on pot reads 6833, so bass was built in late 1968 or possibly early 1969. Serial number... more

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

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
... more

Gibson EB-O Electric Bass Guitar 1972 Walnut Kalamazoo Short Scale Humbucker

New Brunswick, New Jersey, 089**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1700

Not Being A Bass Maven, The Specs On This Is The Closest That I Could Find Online So Don??t Hold Me To Every Single Detail. First Off I??ve Had This Bass For A Long Time & Used It Sparingly. It??s Been Kept In A Case & Is In Great Condition. Plays Good, Sounds Awesome, Electronics Are Quiet, No Frets Buzz & Really Has No Issues. Seems Like It??s All Original So Let??s Get Into The Details
Gibson 1972 EB-O Mahogany Body(Walnut Finish), 3 Piece Maple Neck w / 22?? Short Scale 21 ... more

Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Bass Guitar with Slotted Headstock 1969 - Cherry

Orange, California, 928**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1595

1969-71 Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Bass Guitar in Very Good original condition. Minor scratches and dings as expected This baby has been played but not abused. The Cherry lacquer finish has some minor scratches, dings and checking but it's an original relic! Head stock is in perfect condition with no breaks or cracks! Electronics are all good and it plays beautifully. Short scale 30 inch neck plays like a SG guitar. Jack Bruce would have loved this baby. Comes with a Levy's gig bag in near new ... more

1969 Gibson Bass Guitar EB-0

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

$1500

1969 Gibson Bass Guitar EB-0... more

Gibson EB-0 1970s Short Scale Bass

Flower Mound, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1499

For Sale is my 70s EB-0. The finish is an aged heritage cherry. Beautiful. It plays great and the humbucker packs some serious punch. It's strung with tape wounds which make this a thump machine. It has a 3-way switch which switches between different tone caps. Super handy for tweaking tone. No breaks in the neck, frets have life left. A great bass. Comes with a gig bag. I'll pack it nice and safely
" Crafted in the United States the Gibson EB-0 embodies a classic era of bass guitar design.... 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

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

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