• Solid mahogany one-piece body • Set mahogany three-piece neck • 19-fret rosewood fretboard • Gibson EB humbucking pickup • 30 1/2 inch scale
A new design for a new decade
This is an early-seventies 'slotted headstock' EB0; i.e. with two slots in the headstock, and the backwards facing banjo style Schaller M4 classic tuning keys. Like all EB-0 basses, they were produced at the Gibson Kalamazoo plant, in Michigan, USA; this example is one of 2896 EB-0s shipped in 1970 (see EB-0 shipping stats). The slotted-headstocks EB-0s came out at the peak of the models popularity, so despite the short production period (very late 1969 - very late 1971) they are not too hard to find.
Like all mahogany-necked Gibson basses, they are prone to break behind the truss rod adjustment cavity - however the banjo tuning keys exacerbate this: a fall backwards will almost certainly result in a headstock break; tuning keys hit the ground first, and the full force of the drop shears the headstock right off! It was the last EBO to feature a mahogany neck; later models used a much stronger three-piece maple neck.
A number of other changes were also made besides the headstock: the neck, for example, is now a laminate of three pieces of mahogany; actually this change seems to have occurred shortly before the move to the split headstock design, but so soon beforehand that solid headstock EB basses with three-piece mahogany necks are very much the exception. It still has the rosewood fingerboard with dot position markers, but one less fret: 19 instead of 20 of the previous years guitars (see a 1969 EB-0 here).
The pickup (70s spring mounted EB humbucker) has a black plastic mount and is height adjustable for the first time. It is situated right up against the neck. Other early seventies features include the two point bar bridge with cover, and old style pickguard with no finger-rest.
Controls are still the standard volume and tone, but the output jack has moved from the front, to a plate on the side of the body.
The Gibson logo itself, whilst still mother-of-pearl, is not inlaid into the headstock as was always the case with previous EBs; in fact it is a very thin sheet, carefully cut then glued in place. This also prevented the requirement of a black-painted headstock. Both subtle changes, but quicker and cheaper to produce, relieving pressure at a time of great financial strain on all US guitar manufacturers.
The original Cherry finish has faded to a rich brown. The faded Cherry can get confused with an original Walnut finish, but typically a look under the scratchplate or other concealed area will show a colour approaching the original finish.
The heel area (the joint where the neck meets the body) changed over the many years that EB basses were produced. A typical 1969 heel was rounded, and it sat flush with the guitar body - see a 1969 heel joint. The new slotted headstock basses were different; a more rectangular, stepped heel characterised these basses.
The split-headstock models were the first to have a surround on the EB humbucker, allowing pickup height adjustment. The actual pickup itself was no different of course, just the way it was mounted. Compare this to an EBO from the previous year with a non-adjustable pickup here. This was a significant design improvement, and remained constant for the rest of the 1970s.
This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge with under-bridge string mute, and chrome bridge cover. The mute would soon be discontinued, as the upright bass sound it was supposed to produce became less relevant to the 1970s bass player. To raise the mute the lever on the left of the image would be pulled left, pushing the felt strip on the right upwards.
This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge with under-bridge string mute for a muted, upright bass sound. The saddles are made of Delrin - a low-friction plastic made by Dupont. The mute is operated by pulling the handle on the left away from the bridge, which pushes the felt upwards against the strings.
From behind, the 1970 EB0 looks rather similar to the 1969 version - main differences are the slotted headstock and associated tuning keys, and a slightly less rounded heel.
The six digit serial number is stamped on the back of the headstock. Note there is no 'MADE IN USA' stamp beneath the serial number, despite this bass being shipped in 1970. This is usually cited as proof of a pre-1970 bass; this is one of the last instruments made by Gibson without this. See a slightly later 1972 EBO with the 'Made in USA' stamp here.
The posts of the Schaller M4C clearly show how the strings pass through the post holes rather than into the top as with the Schaller M4.
The posts of the Schaller M4C clearly show how the strings pass through the post holes rather than into the top as with the Schaller M4.
The slotted headstock EB basses had a mother-of-pearl Gibson logo, simply glued on to the headstock - a real contrast to the carefully inlaid headstocks of the previous decade, but still a step above a decal or silk-screened logo. Note the blocky letters and lack of dot over the i. have a look at a 1969 EBO headstock logo in comparison 1969 Gibson EBO. The slotted headstock basses also had a scripted model designation on the truss rod cover.
The Schaller M4C keys were quite similar to the regular M4 Gibson had used a few years earlier, but with string holes through the post, rather than slots at the end.
The Schaller M4C keys were quite similar to the regular M4 Gibson had used a few years earlier, but with string holes through the post, rather than slots at the end.
The three-piece neck and slotted headstock. Schaller M-4-C tuning keys. No volute. Gibson headstocks were never known for their strength, but the slotted headstock EB basses were perhaps some of the most prone to breaking of all Gibson instruments. Firstly necks were typically mahogany - a brittle wood that shatters easily. The necks had been narrowed since the earliest EBs, and the weakspot behind the truss rod cavity was pretty thin anyway. With the new banjo-style tuners, any fall backwards would land with them hitting the ground first, causing considerable force on the weak area where the neck meets the headstock. Slotted headstock EB bass without some form of damage or repair in this area are rare indeed.
A 1970 EB0?
The lack of 'MADE IN THE USA' on the back of the headstock of a Gibson instrument traditionally suggests a 1960s vintage, whilst the potentiometers are dated January 1970. To compound matters further the serial number suggests 1968 or 1970. Gibson instruments take months to build, and necks were usually stamped with a serial number, before attaching them to a body. In this case the body and neck were probably manufactured in '69, with assembly and shipping occurring in 1970. Stamping instruments as 'MADE IN U.S.A.' was phased in around this time, and although the majority of slot heads are marked as such, many are not, particularly those with serial numbers in the 91xxxx - 92xxxx range.
This split headstock model never quite made it into a Gibson catalogue, but some similar EB3s can be seen in 1970 bass catalog. It had a September 1970 price of $350. But by early 1972 it had been revamped again, back to a solid headstock style - have a look at a 1972 EB-0. Anyway, its got a fantastic tone, pure melting butter, have a listen - recorded direct output, no amplifier.
Gibson EB-0 soundclips
With DI, this bass has a lovely deep round tone. As a 30 1/2" scale bass it requires short scale strings.
Gibson EB-0 bass guitars for sale
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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
" Crafted in the United States the Gibson EB-0 embodies a classic era of bass guitar design.... 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
... more
Very Good Condition Sold by a mom & pop music store in Brooklyn NY
... 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
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
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
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!!
... more
... 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
1959 1960 GIBSON EB-0 Slab Body BASS PICKGUARD USA
Houston, Texas, 770**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$250
Vintage 1966 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry
Tarzana, California, 913**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1995
Vintage 1966 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry
Up for sale, here's an incredible Player's grade Original 1966 Gibson EB-0 short scale Bass in its original Cherry finish with a really cool Mojo and patina
7 2 Lbs, 30 5" scale with low serial # 320XXX, which indicates it could be even late '65 but because of the bridge we can consider ir 1966
When it comes to "Player's" instruments, it means you're gettin a true vintage guitar that has been really well played for years from diverse stages to ... more
Up for sale, here's an incredible Player's grade Original 1966 Gibson EB-0 short scale Bass in its original Cherry finish with a really cool Mojo and patina
7 2 Lbs, 30 5" scale with low serial # 320XXX, which indicates it could be even late '65 but because of the bridge we can consider ir 1966
When it comes to "Player's" instruments, it means you're gettin a true vintage guitar that has been really well played for years from diverse stages to ... more
EPIPHONE by GIBSON EBO BASS
Fort Wayne, Indiana, 468**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$225
Absolute Mint condition This would be a great Christmas present for the professional or aspiring rock bassist
. This Epiphone by Gibson EBO Bass is a solid body guitar with a beautiful cherry finish. The instrument is designed for right-handed players and features a 4-string configuration. The neck is made of cherry and has 20 frets. The fretboard is made of rosewood, which gives the guitar a smooth and comfortable feel.
The body is made of mahogany, which is a durable ... more
. This Epiphone by Gibson EBO Bass is a solid body guitar with a beautiful cherry finish. The instrument is designed for right-handed players and features a 4-string configuration. The neck is made of cherry and has 20 frets. The fretboard is made of rosewood, which gives the guitar a smooth and comfortable feel.
The body is made of mahogany, which is a durable ... 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
... more
1969 Gibson Bass Guitar EB-0
Arlington, Indiana, 461**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1500
1969 Gibson Bass Guitar EB-0... more
There are 8 comments on this article so far. Add your comment
John F. Comment left 28th May 2019 20:08:59 reply
Your comments I believe I have a 1970 EB0. Serial number is 957092. Can you verify? Thanks.
Your comments I believe I have a 1970 EB0. Serial number is 957092. Can you verify? Thanks.
Larry B Comment left 24th September 2017 02:02:22 reply
My friend just bought an EB0 bass with a slotted headstock at a yard sale. And wants me to repair the electronics. It appears that it originally had one pickup but someone added a P-Bass pickup and a gibson style toggle switch which they cut a hole in the shield to isolate it? I'd think it should be grounded? No? What I don't understand is that it has two volumes and two tone controls which appear to be original with original knobs? Perhaps two were added later but they look original? A couple tone caps were added also. The jack is on the edge. One pickup seems to work and the P-Bass pickup seems to barely be audible..Not enough output . I hate working on modded stuff because it never works right. I'm wondering what the best way to repair this is? Thanks
My friend just bought an EB0 bass with a slotted headstock at a yard sale. And wants me to repair the electronics. It appears that it originally had one pickup but someone added a P-Bass pickup and a gibson style toggle switch which they cut a hole in the shield to isolate it? I'd think it should be grounded? No? What I don't understand is that it has two volumes and two tone controls which appear to be original with original knobs? Perhaps two were added later but they look original? A couple tone caps were added also. The jack is on the edge. One pickup seems to work and the P-Bass pickup seems to barely be audible..Not enough output . I hate working on modded stuff because it never works right. I'm wondering what the best way to repair this is? Thanks
jon morad Comment left 4th December 2015 18:06:23 reply
I cannot find a hardshell case for my 1970 EB-O Bass.
I cannot find a hardshell case for my 1970 EB-O Bass.
Michael Comment left 30th June 2018 06:06:42 reply
I use acoustic guitar one with strong foam to support all around body.
I use acoustic guitar one with strong foam to support all around body.
Deborah Smith Comment left 28th December 2014 18:06:06 reply
I love the EB0 pages. My husband and I each have an EB0, slotted head stocks. One thing I've noticed is that if the bass has a slotted headstock, the jack is located on the edge of the bass instead of the front. Is this accurate or did I miss something? Thanks for the great info.
I love the EB0 pages. My husband and I each have an EB0, slotted head stocks. One thing I've noticed is that if the bass has a slotted headstock, the jack is located on the edge of the bass instead of the front. Is this accurate or did I miss something? Thanks for the great info.
Fly Guitars Comment left 14th January 2015 10:10:42 reply
Hi Deborah, yes that is correct, the slotted headstock EB basses had the jack on the side, mounted to a plastic plate. Once the basses were redesigned for '72 it was situated back on the front of the body.
Hi Deborah, yes that is correct, the slotted headstock EB basses had the jack on the side, mounted to a plastic plate. Once the basses were redesigned for '72 it was situated back on the front of the body.
Rob Taylor Comment left 27th June 2014 19:07:17 reply
I have one of these slotted head EBOs. Lovely warm sound and the most powerful pickup I have ever known (and I also have Musicman and Fender Jazz). MIne has no mute on the bridge - do you think it has been swopped? How do I get a shaped case? Mine is an original that is falling apart.
I have one of these slotted head EBOs. Lovely warm sound and the most powerful pickup I have ever known (and I also have Musicman and Fender Jazz). MIne has no mute on the bridge - do you think it has been swopped? How do I get a shaped case? Mine is an original that is falling apart.
Fly Guitars Comment left 27th June 2014 23:11:09 reply
Hi Rob, The mute is screwed to the body with three small screws. At this time (70/71) the mute was being phased out and not all slot heads (especially later examples) had one fitted. If yours has no screw holes (2 in front of the bridge, one just behind) it had no mute. Cases are hard to find for these (most are too shallow due to the back-facing tuning keys), but If I recall correctly, the current Epiphone EB3 bass case will work (but not the Gibson SG reissue). Might be worth getting the gaffer tape out...
Hi Rob, The mute is screwed to the body with three small screws. At this time (70/71) the mute was being phased out and not all slot heads (especially later examples) had one fitted. If yours has no screw holes (2 in front of the bridge, one just behind) it had no mute. Cases are hard to find for these (most are too shallow due to the back-facing tuning keys), but If I recall correctly, the current Epiphone EB3 bass case will work (but not the Gibson SG reissue). Might be worth getting the gaffer tape out...