1969 Gibson EB-0 bass

A superb example of a Gibson EB0 bass from the peak year of their production; one of 3018 shipped in 1969 (see EB-0 shipping stats). This one is in Gibson's famous translucent cherry finish, showing (especially on the reverse) plenty of mahogany grain patterning. The finish on this example has faded to some extent, and in more extreme examples can lead people to believe their guitar to be stained with a walnut rather than cherry finish. Walnut was another finish option first offered in the late 1960s, but was noticeably darker still - and a look under the scratchplate will usually reveal the original finish colour; it is primarily sunlight after all that causes the colour change. Have a look at a less faded 1960s EB-0 in cherry finish.

1969 Gibson EB-0 specifications

This is a fantastic rumbly bass.. masses of low end and incredibly easy to play. This is a function of the heavily wound pickup, positioned right up against the neck, the choice of mahogany and rosewood, with set neck construction, and the short (30 1/2") scale. Naturally these basses require short scale strings - and although any type will work, they sound best with a decent set of flats.

Late 60s Gibson EB-0 features

Notice the thin neck (on the back of the headstock), inlaid Gibson logo and solid headstock with crown inlay. Two point tune-o-matic bridge with chrome bridge cover and EB humbucker without surround, positioned directly at the end of the neck. This bass has Japanese-made closed gear tuning keys usually seen on the Melody Maker, and Kalamazoo KB bass, but also found on some EB0s, and even a few EB3s in the late 60's.

Determining a shipping date

According to published Gibson serial number information, the number stamped onto the reverse headstock of this bass (802***) was potentially used in 1966, 1969, and maybe two or three more times in the early 1970s. A little knowledge of body styles, heel joints and components suggests a 1969 bass, as do the potentiometers which are dated the last week of December 1968. Finally the lack of 'MADE IN THE USA' stamped below the serial number rules out anything beyond very early 1970. 1969 was Gibson's most successful year with the EBO - 3018 basses were shipped; 1000 more than the previous best, 1965.

The 1969 zone 1 USA price for the Gibson EBO bass was $275, whilst the EB3 was $390.

The Cherry finish on early EB basses tends to turn a more orange with exposure to light, but late sixties EB's tend to turn a reddy brown, as can be seen here. This bass is fitted with typical 1969 body components: EB humbucker (with narrow, tall, chrome cover), two point bridge (that could be intonated!) with mute, bridge cover, witch hat control knobs. Gone is the old handrest, and bar bridge - compare this to a 1966 EB0.

The joint where the body meets the neck, or heel varied over the course of EB bass production - this style is quite specific to 1969. Have a look at some other EB bass heel joints.

Humbucker pickup with tall, narrow chrome-plated cover - compare this to the wider, shallower cover of a mid-sixties EB bass.

The EBO has one volume and one tone control. It has witch-hat knobs with position pointers. The output jack is front-mounted, although a year later and they were positioned on the body side - see a 1970 EBO.

EB humbucker pickup. The cover is chrome-plated, as opposed to the nickel, and is taller yet narrower than the earlier mid-sixties basses. Compare this to a 1966 EB0 with an older 'wide' pickup. This is just the cover of course, the pickup itself is unchanged.

By the following year however, the pickup was given a black plastic surround, and was spring-mounted in order to raise or lower the pickup within it's housing. This obvious improvement stayed with the model for the rest of it's period of manufacture. See a 1970 EB0

This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge with under-bridge string mute, and chrome bridge cover - this is quite in contrast to the old bar bridge seen on EB bass just a year or so earlier.

The saddles are made of a plastic called Delrin. The mute is operated by pulling the handle on the left away from the bridge, which pushes the felt upwards against the strings. One drawback of this bridge design is the proximity of string anchors to saddles; the string windings are actually going over the saddles on this bridge, which is obviously undesirable. Compare this bridge with the previous version fitted to a 1966 EB0.

This EBO bass has a one-piece mahogany body and one-piece mahogany neck. This bass is fitted with closed-gear tuning keys manufactured in Japan, as opposed to the more often seen tuners by Kluson or Schaller. These were used on some EB basses in the late 1960s - though more often seen on the Kalamazoo KB, and Gibson Melody Maker basses.

The serial number (read more about Gibson serial numbers) was stamped on the back of the headstock, usually above the tuning keys. Serial numbers were often re-used, especial in the mid-late 1960s and early 1970s, so drawing conclusions about an instrument from this alone can be problematic. Just a year later all instruments were also stamped 'Made in USA', which tells us that this is a sixties bass. See a 1970 EBO for comparison.

Mid-late 1960s EBs had an inlaid Gibson logo with centered crown inlay. But in 1969 the logo had no dot on the letter i. Compare this headstock with an earlier EBO to see the difference; 1966 EB0.

The one-piece neck and solid headstock. Gibson EB necks were thinner at this stage than they had been in previous years; this one is just 1 1/2" at the nut, compared to 1 3/4" of the earliest EBOs.

The EB0 illustrated in the 1970 bass catalog is very similar to the model shown above, although the EB3 in the same catalogue is a slotted headstock model; and by the time the catalogue was released most if not all EB0s being shipped had the newer slotted headstock.

Below: In it's original case, with gold plush lining.

Gibson EB-0 bass guitars for sale

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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

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

1963 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Vintage Short Scale SG Bass, 100% Original w / Case

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

$3600

Up for sale, a 1963 Gibson EB-0 in excellent, 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original 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 in 1961, boasting a shorter 30 1 / 2?? scale length
Featuring solid Honduran mahogany construction and a rosewood fretboard, this EB-0 weighs 7lbs 13oz. The famous ??Mudbucker?? pickup ... more

1963 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Vintage Short Scale SG Bass With Gigbag

Lincoln, Nebraska, 685**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1600

The 1963 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Vintage Short Scale SG Bass is a highly sought-after electric bass guitar known for its classic design and superior craftsmanship. Made in the United States with a solid mahogany body, this vintage Gibson bass instrument exudes a timeless charm with its rich cherry color and vintage appeal. As a part of Gibson's renowned series of electric bass guitars, the EB-0 model delivers exceptional sound quality and playability, making it a versatile and reliable choice ... 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

1960 Gibson EBO a stunning rare all original example from Gibson's best era !

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

$6495

This is a very rare late production 1960 Gibson EB-0 Bass the original slab-bodied EB-0 bass weighs just 9 lbs. 6oz. and has a nice, fat nut width of just under 1 11 / 16 inches and a scale length of 30 1 / 2 inches. Solid mahogany body, one-piece mahogany neck, and unbound Brazil rosewood fretboard with 20 original jumbo frets and inlaid pearl dot position markers. Headstock with inlaid pearl ??Gibson?? logo and pearl crown inlay. Two-layer black over white plastic ?bell-shaped?? truss-rod ... more

1970 or 1971 Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar With Epiphone Case

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 731**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1700

The 1970 or 1971 Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar is a vintage musical instrument that exudes classic style and timeless appeal. With its solid body and right-handed design, this 4-string bass guitar is perfect for musicians looking to add a touch of vintage flair to their collection. The Gibson brand ensures high quality craftsmanship and exceptional sound, making it a sought-after choice for bass players looking to rock out on a classic instrument. Complete with an Epiphone case, this vintage ... more

all original 1964 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2490

Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1964 Gibson EB-0 short-scale bass in its original Cherry finish. It has a great playing neck with great frets. It's all original and 100% complete along with its original soft shell case. It looks great with nicks + dings, very little minor finish checking and other cosmetic wear including one small chip in bottom edge of the body near the control cavity. The bass itself remains structurally sound with no cracks,... more

Gibson EB-0, 1965, 1 Owner ?? ALL ORIGINAL - Excellent Condition , Cherry Red

Henderson, Nevada, 890**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3795

1965 Gibson EB-0 Bass ?? All Original, One Owner, Clean Example
Up for sale is a 1965 Gibson EB-0 short-scale bass in its original Cherry Red finish, a classic from Gibson??s golden era
This is a true one-owner instrument, carefully maintained for decades and kept in excellent vintage condition
?? Key Features
100% original ?? no modifications, no replaced parts Original Gibson hard shell case (OHSC) included Original Cherry Red finish with light, natural aging Original electronics... more

1965 Gibson EBO Bass in Custom Color "Ember Red" stunning 1 of a kind & Minty !

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

$4495

This is a beautiful Custom Color example of Gibson's EB-0 bass, pretty much identical to this by so many famous bass players from 1965 into the mid-70s. It's a very special ordered example in Gibson's Ember Red finish all over much like Fender's Dakota Red finish. It's an outstanding show piece showing only the slightest play time w / virtually no fade from new. The 30 1 / 2" scale neck is chunkier than later examples, with a noticeably wider nut than those made after mid-late 1965. While the ... more

Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar 1973 Walnut With Original Hard Case

Spring Hill, Florida, 346**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1500

Vintage Gibson USA
1973 Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar
Walnut
With Original Purple Lined, Gibson Branded Hard Case
Plays / Sounds Great!
Finish: 100% Original
Repairs: None To Note
Serial Number: Cant See Due To Thick Factory Finish (black lights perfectly)
Year: This Guitar Was Dated By The Pot Codes. Both Date 1973 With Original Solder Joints
Weight: 8 Pounds, 7 Ounces
Scale Length: 30 5 "
Nut Width: 1 63" (measured with my caliper)
Neck Specs: .860@1st ... 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

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
... 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

Vintage 1970 Gibson EB-0L Bass Natural

Stockton, California, 952**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

Vintage 1970 Gibson EB-0L Bass Natural
Awesome storage unit find Bass has been modified to a fretless, it is also missing the bridge cover as well as the small model plaque. I acquired it as shown. "GIBSON" is missing the S Local guitar shop owner inspected and said it was in good shape for its age Bass shows some scratches as should be expected. IThe case it came with has some cracks, its in rough shape I have added many images, please be sure to look through all and ask any questions you ... more

1965 Gibson EB-0 Bass Cherry

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1690

Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1965 Gibson EB-0 short-scale bass in its original Cherry finish. It has a good playing neck with good frets. It's all original with the exception of the screws for the hand rest and is 100% complete with the exception of the mute. The original soft shell case is included. This EB-0 looks great with nicks + dings, minor finish checking on the top of the body, very light belt buckle wear in the finish on the back ... 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 EB-0 Circa 1964 Electric Bass Guitar

Georgetown, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1600

Sounds and plays so good! Has all the vintage tone and good mojo. Straight neck. Fully functional. Someone has refinished the headstock while leaving the logo. Some cosmetic flaws from its age. This is a classic thumping bass that can take your playing to the next level

Don't miss your chance to own!



Items only come with case or accessories if pictured or listed in the listing

Items only come with accessories / parts pictured and or... more

1964 Gibson EB-0 Vintage Short Scale Bass Cherry, 100% Original w / Case

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

$3400

Up for sale, a 1964 Gibson EB-0 in excellent, 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original 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 in 1961, boasting a short 30 1 / 2?? scale length
Lightweight at 6lbs 11oz, this EB-0 features solid Honduran mahogany construction and a rosewood fretboard. The famous ??Mudbucker?? pickup ... more

Gibson EB0 / 3 Bass Slotted Headstock 1971 Rare and Monsterous! NEW PRICE!

Salford, M6***, UNITED KINGDOM

£1537

So some time in the distant past the keeper of this bass added another pickup!
and they did a very nice job of it
Make unknown but it's monsterous!
and actually more versatile than a factory EB3
Nicely worn - nothing horrible it's a lovely thing!
Selling as I have too many instruments I just can't justify or deserve
Starting price is ridiculously low - well below market .
Collection from Salford M6 please.... more

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