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

Flyguitars.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.

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

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 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

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

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

$3900

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 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 bass 100% original one owner guitar w / case

Carlisle, Pennsylvania, 170**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2999

READ THE DESCRIPTIONS
SCRUTINIZE THE PICTURES
ASK QUESTIONSNO RETURNS OR REFUNDS
Here's a 1965 Gibson EB-0, one owner, bass guitar. Immaculate condition with little if any wear. 100% original except strings. Very very little lacquer checking and one very minor touched up edge where your arm would rest. No neck or body to neck issues. No fade to the cherry red finish. Barely any appreciable fret wear. You'd be hard pressed to ... more

1962 Gibson EB-0 Vintage Short Scale SG Bass Cherry 100% Original w / Mudbucker

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

$3500

Up for sale, a 1962 Gibson EB-0 in 100% original condition and in perfect working order. 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 2oz with solid mahogany construction, this bass delivers pure, fat low-end thump courtesy of the famous "Mudbucker" pickup. The rich growl of the EB-0 sits perfectly in a mix, deftly below ... 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

1965 EBO 3 / 4 Scale Gibson SG Red Mahogany Bass Guitar. Absolutely Stunning!!!!

Cave City, Kentucky, 421**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2100

Stunning nice 1965 Gibson EBO Bass, Guitar has been pro setup, and plays very nicely. Has a warm growl and soulful low end. Use the volume and it cleans up nice at lower volumes. Comes with a vintage hardshell as shown. Has a few ??bumps and bruises?? as shown which is expected of a guitar with its age but none affect the playability. Overall nice piece for players or sessionists.
Packed securely, insured, and tracking provided.
... 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 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

1961 Gibson EB-0 Vintage Short Scale SG Bass Cherry w / Case

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

$3000

Up for sale, a 1961 Gibson EB-0 in perfect working order, 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 first-year example seen here) in 1961
Featuring solid Honduran mahogany construction and a Brazilian rosewood fretboard, this EB-0 is lightweight at 6lbs 12oz. The famous ??Mudbucker?? pickup delivers pure, fat low-end thump and ... more

GIBSON 1966 BASS CHROME PICKUP COVER LARGE HUMBUCKER EB-O EB-2 EB-3 EPI RIVOLI

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

$59

FREE USA SHIPPING!
There's nothing worse than not having a cover for that big Gibson bass humbucker. It's one butt-ugly pickup without it! This is correct for late 1965 thru 1970 EB-O, EB-2 and EB-3 models as well as 1969 & 1970 EB-1 basses. It will also fit Epiphone Rivoli basses. This version has the small-head mounting screws (4 are included but just not shown). Gibson changed the height and the position of this cover in 1970 and enlarged the mounting screw holes. It's in great shape ... 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

1967 Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Bass - Cherry #06247

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 152**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1799

WELCOME TO EMPIRE MUSIC
Since 2002, Empire Music has aimed to deliver the finest in-store shopping experience. Now you can receive the same amazing in-store experience through our eBay store. We promise to deliver the highest quality products and services to all of our customers This Gibson EB-0 Short Scale Bass is in GOOD overall condition. Cosmetically, it has blemishes and wear throughout but still in good overall condition. See below for a detailed description. It has been thoroughly ... more

Gibson Epiphone EB-0 Cherry

Firenze, 50***, ITALY

€270

Gibson Epiphone EB-0 Cherry.

Il basso Epiphone EB-0 SG, Cherry offre una forma slanciata e elegante dello strumento in scala corta, con toni richhi e potenti che si adattano ad una vasta gamma di stili musicali. Il corpo classico SG è stato costruito con legno in mogano solido e tastiera in palissandro, fornendo insieme un tono caldo e corposo.
... more

1963 Gibson EB-0 Bass

Bristol, BS5***, UNITED KINGDOM

£2275

It's with great pleasure, we bring to market this wonderful 1963 Gibson EB-0 bass guitar.
Simply one of the finest playing vintage instruments you're likely to pick up, this bass is a beautifully kept relic. Used to inimitable effect by players such as Cream's Jack Bruce, the booming sound of that high output humbucker is a cornerstone of that 60s sound.
It consists of all mahogany construction with a nicely worn cherry finish, original subtly tarnished nickel tuners, original scratch ... more

Gibson EB0 Bass 1961 / 62

Abergavenny, NP7***, UNITED KINGDOM

£3500

UK SALE ONLY AND I CAN DELIVER, I WILL NOT POST. Bought this fabulous EB-0 while i was working in Cincinnati, Ohio back in 1999. It has very rarely been played basically because i'm useless at playing it !!! It has been in a room in the house that maintains a steady temperature. It is played now and then and it now is strung with flat wounds as i like the way they feel and sound. I also have the Rotosound 66s and the 77s if you'd prefer. I'll not go on about it cos as you can see it really ... more

1964 Gibson EB 0 BASS - Made in USA

COLOGNE, GERMANY

£1296

1964 GIBSON EB 0 BASS - made in USA :
* refinished
* plugged hole in control cavity
* no cracks on neck / headstock
* neck needs to be glued back at heel, cos it is lose=check last pic
* fingerboard has wear
* NO other parts included
* SOLD AS IS - NO RETURNS... more

Gibson EB-0 BASS ?? Faded Cherry all original 1963

UK, UNITED KINGDOM

£3000

... more

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co