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Interview: Dave Kiswiney
Dave KiswineyDave Kiswiney has played Gibson (and latterly Heritage) bass guitars for his entire career. As a musician, he is best known for his time playing the Gibson Ripper with Ted Nugent; as a Gibson endorsing artist, he was the face of the Gibson Victory bass - appearing in all the advertising at the time. Dave has always preferred active instruments, and owns a number of (almost) unique active basses, an active single pickup Victory, an active single pickup Gibson Explorer bass, and a five string Heritage bass. Read his interview to find out about his career in music, his time with Ted Nugent and his amazing bass collection.
1981 Gibson Victory Standard
1981 Gibson Victory Standard (Candy Apple Red finish) The Victory bass series was designed by the Gibson research and development team, based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, though all but a few demonstration models were produced at the newer Nashville plant. This was the first bass model to be exclusively produced there. The Victory Standard was included in price lists from 1981 until 1986, though the vast majority, like the bass featured here were built in the second half of 1981.
1964 Gibson EB0
1964 Gibson EB0 bass (cherry finish) The EB series evolved throughout the period of production, with (mostly) minor hardware and construction changes occurring every couple years. 1964 basses are typified by their mix of early features: wide, but slightly shallower neck, non-intonatable bridge, 'small' control cavity cover and nickel-plated hardware; most obviously the pickup cover (previously black bakelite - compare with a 1962 EB0, later chrome-plated - see this 1966 EB0)
1972 Gibson EB0L
1972 Gibson EB0L bass (natural finish)A very unusual long scale 1972 Gibson EB0L practically all Gibson EB-0 bass guitars had a mahogany body with a translucent Cherry or Walnut finish. This bass has an alder body with natural finish, and somewhat different hardware, with more in common with an Gibson SB-450, rather than a typical seventies EB bass. Despite being built in 1972, this bass was most likely one of just 5 natural EB-0 basses shipped in 1973, according to the EB-O shipping stats.
1978 Gibson G-3
1978 Gibson G-3 bassThe Gibson G-3 bass was first shown to the public at the 1975 NAMM show, and was an immediate success; it remained in production throughout the 70s, with small numbers being shipped in 1982 and 1985. The three in G-3 is, of course, a reference to the three pickups and associated circuitry designed by Gibson employee Bill Lawrence. The vast majority of G-3s shipped had a Natural or Ebony finish, although small numbers had a Candy Apple Red, White, Walnut, Wine Red or Tobacco Sunburst as shown here. For more, see the G-3 production totals.
1974 Gibson L-9S Ripper
1974 Gibson Ripper bassAlthough a few were completed in 1973, 1974 was the first year the Gibson Ripper bass was shipped in any numbers. It was one of the first new designs by Bill Lawrence who came to Gibson in the early 1970s. Early examples, like this, have a wider slab body, without the sculptured bevelling of later Rippers, but are essentially the same in other respects. The Ripper was in sharp contrast to the short scale 'muddy' mahogany basses that had dominated Gibsons output of the previous decade, and was immediately sucessful. Have a listen to the soundclips of this bass, through several vintage amplifiers.
1961 Gibson EB3
1961 Gibson EB3 bassA 1961 Gibson EB3 bass. 1961 was the first year of EB3 production, and the year Gibson first used the classic SG shape. Like the SG guitars, the EB3 was built at the Gibson plant in Kalamazoo. Early EB3s are characterised by their chunky necks, wide-spaced controls, nickel hardware and bakelite neck pickup cover. Have a listen to the soundclips of this bass, through several vintage amplifiers.
1966 Gibson EB0
1966 Gibson EB0 bassProfile of a 1966 Gibson EB0 bass. The EB0, like it's big brother the EB3, is something of a 1960s classic; the construction (short scale, mahogany body, set mahogany neck), and the famous Gibson EB humbucker positioned at the neck, gave a deep rumble that perfectly suited the musical environment of the early-mid sixties. But by the early-mid seventies things were going long-scale and maple... Nonetheless, this is a finely built instrument, capable of some terrific sounds that really suit certain musical situations. Have a listen to the soundclips of this bass, through various vintage amplifiers.
1972 Gibson EB3L
1972 Gibson EB3L bassA closer look at a 1972 Gibson EB3L. In 1972, Gibson completely redesigned the EB series of basses, giving them maple necks, far more substantial bodies, and redesigned circuitry. This included moving the front pickup away from the neck, and towards the middle of the body. The result was a fine playing bass; less boomy than its's 1960s predecessor, and more durable too. Have a listen to the EB3L soundclips
Gibson EB2 and Epiphone Rivoli circuit information
Gibson EB2 bass guitar wiring illustrationSchematic and simplified wiring illustration for the 1960s single pickup Gibson EB2 and Epiphone Rivoli bass guitars. The original EB2 and Rivoli basses were very similar indeed, both being made side by side in Gibson's Kalamazoo plant in Michigan, USA. Differences were purely cosmetic, and electronically they were identical: a Gibson EB humbucker, one volume control, one tone control, and a baritone push button switch.
Interview: Jack Casady
Jack CasadyFly Guitars is delighted to feature an interview with a bass legend, Jack Casady. He talks about how he started out, and his influences, but as always, the focus is on his gear. Jack was famous for his customised instruments. There's a section on his early Fender Jazz basses, Guild Starfire basses, his Alembic number one, and of course the development of his own Epiphone Jack Casady Signature bass. In seven parts.
1968 Gibson EB-2D
1968 Gibson EB2D bass guitarThe Gibson EB2 was initially available as a one-pickup instrument, however in 1966, the option of a second humbucker in the bridge position was added. The EB2 used the same pickup as the Gibson EB0, and likewise, the EB2D used the same pickup arrangement as the Gibson EB3, aswell as the tone choke or bass-boost. This page gives description, images and soundclips taken from a 1968 Gibson EB-2D bass guitar
Interview: Mick Hawksworth
Mick HawksworthThe latest Fly Guitar interview is with one of Britain's unsung bass heroes. Mick Hawksworth has been performing and recording for over 40 years, in a long line up of bands, and as a session player. In the 60s he was noted for his "technically brilliant basslines" after he formed the short-lived Andromeda with Attack frontman John Cann. He's got a great taste in gear: Acoustic, Danelectro, Guild. And of course Gibson; he most often plays an RD Artist bass. Check out the youtube clips to see it in action! In six parts.
1976 Gibson G3
1977 Gibson Grabber bass guitar, Maple Gloss finishImages and description of a 1976 Gibson Grabber 3, or G3, bass guitar in Maple Gloss finish. The G3 was the upgraded version of the Gibson Grabber, essentially the same bass in every way, except the pickups. Rather than one sliding humbucker, it featured three G3 single coil pickups wired in humbucking configuration. many people regard the G3 as the best of the Grabber/G3/Ripper family of basses.
Gibson Victory Wiring Schematics
Gibson Victory bass circuit schematics and wiring imagesThe Gibson Victory bass guitar had complicated circuitry designed by Kalamazoo research and development engineer Tim Shaw. The full circuit schematic for the Victory Artist and schematic for the Victory Custom are online now for the first time, along with images of the circuits themselves. The Artist circuit was redesigned shortly after introduction of the model, and named Rev B. for this reason we are calling the older circuit Rev A. Schematics for both circuits are included on this site.
1977 Gibson Grabber
1977 Gibson Grabber bass guitar, Maple Gloss finishImages and description of a 1977 Gibson Grabber bass guitar in Maple Gloss finish. As the finish name implies, this is a maple-bodied bass, in contrast to the majority of Grabbers shipped with a natural (satin) finish, which were alder, and also cheaper. Maple Gloss is an unusual colour, with just 181 such instruments shipped between 1977-79 (see Gibson Grabber shipping figures), although a few more may well have been shipped in the early 1980s.
1973 Gibson EB-4L
1973 Gibson EB-4L bass guitarImages and description of an early 1973 Gibson EB-4L bass guitar in Walnut finish. The early '73s had the two-point bridge, changing to the three-point bridge later that year (see a late 1973 EB-4L). There are no other differences; all EB4s have the same pickup (special design superhumbucker), controls, and other hardware.
Gibson Bass Guitars Pickguard Information
Gibson Bass Guitars Pickguard InformationFly Guitars includes quite a lot of Gibson Bass part information, predominantly pickups, machineheads and bridges. This new section details some of the scratchplates used on Gibson bass guitars. Includes downloadable templates you can use to make your own replacement guards.
Gibson SB-300 and SB-400 Circuit Information
Gibson SB-300 and SB-400 circuit informationThe circuitry of the early SB basses (SB-300 and SB-400) was shared with a number of six-string Gibson electrics: the SG-200, SG-250, and the ES-320. This page shows the circuit in close-up, component list (with part numbers), and simplified wiring schematic.
1969 Gibson EB-2W Electric Bass Guitar
1969 Gibson EB-2W Electric Bass GuitarDescription and photographs of a 1969 Gibson EB-2W electric bass guitar. The EB-2 was available between 1959-1961 and again 1964-1972. According to the available EB-2 shipping figures, just 12 EB-2W basses were shipped, all in 1969, although this is most likely incorrect, as the finish was listed in all price lists between June 1968 and October 1972, and was available for the two-pickup EB-2D too.
The Development of the Gibson Victory Bass
1982 Gibson Victory Artist bass guitarThe Gibson Victory series was created by the then research and development team housed in the basement of the old Kalamazoo plant. The guitar itself was the work of artist/designer Charles (Chuck) Burge, whilst the electronics were created by another team member, Tim Shaw. I was lucky enough to catch up with Chuck, on my recent visit to Kalamazoo, and get some of the story on these often overlooked basses.
1962 Epiphone Newport Deluxe EBD bass
1962 Epiphone Newport Deluxe bassDescription and photographs of a 1962 Epiphone Newport Deluxe electric bass guitar. The Newport series comprised four models, the Deluxe being the top-of-the-range two-pickup model. In reality, this bass is a Gibson EB3 with no varitone control; both are short scale, all mahogany, set-necked basses, and use the same pickups and hardware. Manufactured 1961-1963
1971 Gibson SB-400 bass
1971 Gibson SB-400 bassDescription and photographs of a 1971 Gibson SB-400 electric bass guitar. The SB series was a new attempt to capture the lower-middle end of the bass market; Gibson quality and construction, but with a cheaper price tag. The SB-300 and longscale SB-400 were the first Gibson basses to have a maple neck, and the first solid-bodies not made of mahogany.
1981 Gibson RD Artist CMT bass
1981 Gibson RD Artist CMT bassDescription and photographs of a 1981 Gibson RD Artist electric bass guitar, in Antique Sunburst finish on a curly maple top (CMT). The CMT basses came right at the end of RD production, and perhaps as few as 100 were produced. This bass features the second version switch layout allowing expansion and compression consecutively.
Interview: Ralphe Armstrong
Ralphe ArmstrongBass player Ralphe Armstrong, (Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jean-Luc Ponty, Curtis Mayfield, James Carter, D-12) talks about his playing, musical career, Gibson endorsement, and of course, his love for Gibson bass guitars. By John Fertig. In four parts.
1962 Gibson EB0 bass
1962 Gibson EB0 bass guitarDescription and photographs of a 1962 Gibson EB-0 electric bass guitar, including wiring photographs. This bass has a black bakelite pickup cover, nickel hardware, 'raised' crown logo, and fat, wide, neck; typical of the early sixties.
Interview: Justin Meldal-Johnsen
Justin Meldal-JohnsenBassist, producer, and musical director, talks about himself, his music and, of course, his Gibson bass guitars. In four parts.
Gibson Victory bass series
1982 Gibson Victory Custom bass guitarThere were three versions of the Gibson Victory bass: the passive Standard and Custom, and the active Artist. FlyGuitars has a look at these eighties classics; descriptions, specifications, images and soundclips

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

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

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
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1970s Epiphone ET-285 Electric Bass with OHSC - 3 Tone Burst - Vintage

1970s Epiphone ET-285 Electric Bass with OHSC - 3 Tone Burst - Vintage

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

$900

1970s Epiphone ET-285 Electric Bass with OHSC - 3 Tone Burst - Vintage
For sale, a 1970s Epiphone ET-285 in very good vintage condition - functionality and playability are perfect whereas the cosmetic condition is pre-loved showing surface scratches and minor indentations. The original bridge pickup was swapped by the previous owner sometime ago, and was replaced with a now vintage Dimarzio J Bass Split Coil pickup. This pickup choice gives the bass even more of a nice well rounded sound ... more
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Epiphone ET-285 Bass, 1970s Made in Japan

Epiphone ET-285 Bass, 1970's Made in Japan

Blackwood, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$999

This bass is in good shape for being about 50 years old! There are two screw holes in the body (pictured), assuming that was for an ashtray-style bridge cover that we do not have
Weight: 9 29 lbs... more
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Epiphone Embassy Special IV Bass Guitar

Epiphone Embassy Special IV Bass Guitar

Harrison, Ohio, 450**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$300

The bass guitar you are looking at is in Very Good Condition
This Bass not only plays great but sounds even better
The frets and neck are in Perfect Shape!
Bass has light scratches on front headstock as shown in pictures
Weight 8 0Lbs 2oz
If you have any questions, please ask
Scale pictured, Case or Bag is Not Included.... more
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1985 Gibson Explorer Bass Guitar Ebony

1985 Gibson Explorer Bass Guitar Ebony

Lawrenceville, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2000

1985 Gibson Explorer Bass bass in good condition. The bass is fairly lightweight for a 80s Explorer bass, very comfortable to play.
I am the second owner of this bass which has been kept in my home (smoke-free environment). Serial # 82555563 made in Nashville, TN
Note: Prev. owner did the skull stickers which appear to simply be glued over the dot inlays.
1 ) Missing (1) volume knob
2 ) A few nicks and significant paint chipping / checking.
Techn. details:
Alder body, ... more
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1965 Gibson EB-2 Bass a very special ordered EB-2 in a factory Argentine Gray !

1965 Gibson EB-2 Bass a very special ordered EB-2 in a factory Argentine Gray !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$8995

The Gibson EB-2 Bass was invented in 1959 & made famous by many players. This example is oh-so rare & very special ordered by its 1st owner & is 1 of the coolest special ordered EB-2??s from 1965. Its beautiful slightly faded original ??Argentine Gray?? custom color finish is what this is all about & its so frickin rare. Its 1 of only 2 of this color known to exist. Its 1 piece mahogany neck feel delicious. No volute nor Made in the USA stamp. She??s got a perfect orange label ... more
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Vintage Early 1960s Gibson EB-0  /  EB-2 Bass Bridge Mute

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
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Epiphone By Gibson Rock Bass Ebony Jazz Bass Hockey Stick Headstock Very Rare

Epiphone By Gibson Rock Bass Ebony Jazz Bass Hockey Stick Headstock Very Rare

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

$400

Epiphone By Gibson Rock Bass Ebony Jazz Bass Hockey Stick Headstock Very Rare.
These were made from 1986-93 according to the internet. The serial number sticker has been peeled of, but I believe this is an earlier one
Very nice looking bass
Sealed tuners, new strings, brass saddles, black on black with matching headstock, all original
The body has a few light nicks and scratches, in the clear coat. None major
No apparent fret wear or groves
The bass has just had a ... more
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1963 Gibson EB-0 Vintage Short Scale SG Bass Cherry w /  Mudbucker, Case

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
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