1972 Gibson EB-3 bass

When the EB3 was redesigned for 1972, Gibson were careful to make a less fragile bass. Some of the 1960s EB basses cracked easily when dropped, or knocked about a bit. The easily-broken mahogany neck had been replaced with a thicker three-piece maple one. It was given a thicker body too, though still mahogany, and a bigger headstock. It had a volute for neck strength; much more durable. But it still had the characteristic EB humbucker, moved away from the neck, and a varitone/tone choke.

1972 Gibson EB-3 specifications

The first two years of this remodelling (1972 and 1973) saw acceptable sales of EB3 (including long scale versions 1350 and 2400 instruments shipped respectively) and because of their durability, most are still in existence today. As well as the thousands of instruments produced in cherry and walnut finishes (like the instrument featured above), a small number were available in ebony (10), natural (49), and towards the mid-late seventies, white (69).

It's a great looking bass, still with much of the look and feel of the 1960s original; and with a little less boominess (due to the relocated neck pickup), probably more useful in many band situations. 1970s Gibson EB basses seem to get somewhat overshadowed by the 1960s versions, which is a shame as they really are nice basses.

This is a typical early seventies Gibson. It is unusual to find a snapped neck post-1972 EB3. Maple, though less brittle than mahogany does warp more easily, and whilst you won't find many warp-necked sixties models, you might with these maple-necked versions. Notice the volute (on the back of the headstock), and the two two point bar bridge with cover. Three point bridges were not in use until mid-1973. The machine heads are Schaller M4-S, as fitted on all solid headstock EB basses 1971-73 (until the introduction of the Schaller BM). This style of pickguard was used on all EB models from 1972 until they were last produced in 1979. This is one of 354 walnut (compared to 530 cherry) EB-3 basses shipped in 1972.

The 1972 EB-3 had series 2 circuitry

The post-1972 EB3 basses were changed to some extent from the previous EB3 incarnation (see a 1971 slotted headstock EB3). Aswell as being studier, more weighty basses, the neck pickup position changed, moving away from the neck. Gone is the mute, but the bridge and cover remain the same. The scratchplate is a completely different shape, the shape it would remain for the rest of the period of production.

Changes on the reverse of the bass included a realignment of the control cavity: the top edge is now parallel with the major axis of the bass body and neck - and notice the deeply contoured top edge of the body - a significant change from the previous years bass. Compare with a 1971 EB3 with significantly more subtle sculpting.

This EB humbucker has a black plastic surround that allows height adjustment. Note the revealed edge of the scratchplate: the EB3 scratchplate was five-ply black-white-black-white-black. Compare this to the 1972 EBO that is three play black-white-black.

Output jack. Witch-hat control knobs, marked "vol." and "tone", with position markers. Four varitone positions are labelled, with a chicken head switch as a pointer.

This was one of the first EB3s with the modified series 2 circuitry.

This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge, and chrome bridge cover. The pickup shown is the EB mini-humbucker. There is no under bridge mute had been phased out in 1971, but some early 1970s EB basses had a strip of foam under bridge cover that could be used to dampen the strings.

Two-point tune-o-matic bridge, with bridge cover removed - note the two screw holes to either side of the bridge. The saddles at this time are metal, a change from the plastic (Delrin) ones that accompanied this bridge previously (see a 1971 EB3). .

The walnut brown stain is a classic early seventies Gibson look, and one that ages well. Cherry finish tends to fade, and darken over mahogany - but retain far more vibrancy over maple - the result, in a guitar like this can be different colour necks to bodies. The Walnut finish does not suffer in the same way, and 70s Walnut Gibson's tend to look more uniform.

Serial number on the back of the headstock, above Schaller M4S tuning keys. As was standard practice for all Gibson guitars produced from 1970, it is marked "MADE IN U.S.A."

The preceding incarnation of the EB3, had the slotted headstock - from 1972, the headstock was larger, solid, and with a simple silk-screened logo rather than pearl. It was finished in black, unlike the body-coloured slotted headstock EB3s. Being maple and having a volute on the back of the neck made for a more headstock. Tuning Keys are Schaller M4S. See the headstock of a 1971 Gibson EB3.

Three-piece maple neck and solid headstock. A considerable change from the all-mahogany slotted headstock of the 1971 EB3. Tuning keys are Schaller M-4-S widely used at this time. The neck changed considerably for '72. Not only was the neck made of different wood, it also had a volute for the first time. This gave extra strength to the well-known fragile spot, where the neck meets the headstock.

Gibson EB3 sound clips

Each clip features the introductory 4 bars of rescue me (Fontella Bass) played on a 1972 EB3.

Have a look at these other EB basses in the 1972 line up: the one pickup EBO, and it's longscale equivalent the EB0L; plus a longscale EB3, the EB3L.

Gibson EB3 bass for sale

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Gibson EB-3 Cherry Mod 1969 Electric Bass Guitar Original Case Slotted Head Art

El Segundo, California, 902**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3500

Beautiful stunning EB three Gibson guitar Bass original case, one lady owner, left as found 1970s i??ll let the Pictures do the talking or the playing ! Enjoy laurence & sally of StorageWars and baggage battles currently www roundthebend tv
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1969 Gibson EB3 Bass Guitar- 100% Original with Original Case

Glastonbury, Connecticut, 060**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3700

One owner, bought new in 1969 from Quigly Music in Kansas City with original Gibson Case. One small strap rub on back with minor finish scratches on back as seen in photos.... more

1961 Gibson EB-3 the cleanest original extent w / hang tags 1 of a kind & Minty !

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

$11495

This is a beautiful 1st year produced example of the exactly ??Cream Era?? Gibson EB-3 bass, pretty much identical the primary one used extensively by Jack Bruce from 1966 into the mid-70s. These expensive double pickup EB basses were made in fairly small quantities from 1961 into the mid-1960s but most examples that surface now are the later ??60s and early ??70s models, when they were produced in much greater numbers ?? at least partially due to the popularity of Cream ! Those are fine ... more

"1973" Vintage Cherry "GIBSON EB-3" with OHSC Serial #056076 in Great Condition

Riverside, California, 925**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3295

Here we a have a Pre-Owned Excellent Condition 1973 VINTAGE GIBSON EB-3 BASS. I Just put it through the Shop to make sure everything is up to snuff. I am very meticulous when it comes to my gear, I baby my stuff. Everything is in perfect working order. I just had it completely set up with brand New FENDER FLATOUND 45-100'S so it plays wonderful. Truss Rod is in good working condition Neck is Straight action is perfect. (I like the action low) so it set perfect and plays like a dream. All the ... more

Gibson 70s EB-3 WALNUT Used Electric Bass

Union, New Hampshire, 038**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1275

The Gibson 70s EB-3 WALNUT Used Electric Bass is a classic right-handed solid wood electric bass guitar with a 4-string configuration. This vintage model, known as the Les Paul, was made in the United States and features a solid brown body color, making it both visually appealing and high-quality in terms of sound and playability. With its durable construction and iconic design, this guitar is a popular choice among bass players looking for a reliable and timeless instrument.... more

1969 Gibson EB-3 Cherry

Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3199

Very good condition 1969 Gibson EB-3 bass in cherry. No breaks. All original outside of the changed tuners, replaced tone pot (original included), and a recent refret. This example has some honest play wear throughout from touring, but is lucky to come out with no breaks to report. Bridge mute assembly functions. Truss rod works well, neck is straight, and it has been recently restrung. 8 3 pounds. Gibson logo is a bit faded, but this is purely cosmetic of course. This example sounds very boomy,... more

1969 Gibson EB-3 Husk Repaired Headstock

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

$800

1969 Gibson EB-3 Husk Repaired Headstock very old strong headstock repair. Please look at all pictures. Bare husk. Willship FedEx ground fully insured with tracking shipping to the lower 48th Daytona No Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam or PO boxes international shipping provided by eBay global
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1976 Gibson EB-3 Mahogany Bass Guitar W / Ohsc Veritone

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

$1850

1976 Gibson EB-3 Mahogany Bass Guitar W / Ohsc Veritone. Guitars in good condition has a few little minor scratches here and there
Tuners have been changed. Everything else is 100% original. Sounds great. Will ship FedEx ground fully insured with tracking shipping to the lower 48 states only. No Alaska Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam or PO boxes international shipping provided by eBay Global
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Gibson eb-3 bass guitar, 1960s / 1970s

Jamaica, New York, 114**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1900

The Gibson EB-3 bass guitar from the 1960s / 1970s is a vintage electric bass guitar with a solid body in cherry color
Vintage gibson, in working condition , broken alongside the bottom, seems to be an easy fix if you know what youre doing. Local pick up NYC... more

1972 Gibson EB-3 Mahogany Bass Guitar

Kokomo, Indiana, 469**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2000

The 1972 Gibson EB-3 Mahogany Bass Guitar is a vintage electric bass guitar that exudes classic style and timeless appeal. With a short scale body made of mahogany and a right-handed design, this 4-string bass guitar features a rosewood fretboard for a smooth and rich tone. This model, part of the Gibson series, comes with a hard case for added protection and easy transport. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner looking to add a vintage touch to your collection, the Gibson EB-3 is a ... more

Gibson eb-3 bass guitar, 1960s

Jamaica, New York, 114**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$300

IN WORKING CONDITION, CRACK ON BOTTOM
The Gibson EB-3 bass guitar from the 1960s is a classic electric bass guitar known for its vintage charm and iconic design. With a solid cherry body, four-string configuration, and a model year of 1969, this guitar offers a timeless look and sound that has made it a staple for bass players in various musical genres. The Gibson brand is legendary for producing high-quality instruments, making the EB-3 a sought-after choice for musicians looking for a ... more

1960s Gibson eb-3 Bass Guitar

Jamaica, New York, 114**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1000

Gibson Eb 3, Crack on bottom ?? everything works
No lowballs
Price is pretty firm , reasonable offers accepted
If its $1000 why do u think id accept a $300 offer? Local pickup because I know how you guys like to scam on Ebay... more

Gibson EB-3 Bass Guitar 1967

Horncastle, LN9***, UNITED KINGDOM

£2950

The Gibson EB-3 is a bass guitar introduced in 1961 and discontinued in 1979. It was produced at Gibson's plant in Kalamazoo, MI It features a slim SG-style body, a short 30 5" scale, and two pick up's (a large humbucking pickup in the neck position and a mini humbucker pickup in the bridge position). The electronics include a four-way rotary pickup selector switch (for Series 1 basses: neck pickup with midrange notch, bridge, bridge and neck with low end rolled off neck pickup, neck pickup with... more

1961 Gibson EB-3 4-String Electric Bass Guitar in Cherry, with Hard Case (Used)

Birmingham, B1***, UNITED KINGDOM

£5500

- Overall: Good condition.
- Frets: Good condition, no issues.
- Hardware: All original.
- Electronics: All original, no issues.
- Finish: This Bass Guitar is in Good condition with some wear through previous usage. There are some dents on the body as well as a crack near the jack input, which has been repaired.
- Made in USA, 1961.
* Hard Case included.
* Please note all of our USED / EX-DISPLAY Guitars & Basses are checked, tested,... more

Gibson Eb-3 Bassgitarre

Meisterschwanden, 5***, SWITZERLAND

CHF2250

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1965 Gibson EB-3 Bass Guitar

Farnham, GU10***, UNITED KINGDOM

£3062

Available now is this 1965 Gibson EB3. One of only 339 shipped in that year, and one of even fewer that made it this side of the pond
The EB-3, widely known as the classic Cream bass, was used and made most famous by Jack Bruce from blues-rock pioneers 'Cream' around 1967 onwards. He had a few of them over that time period, but his main and most photographed instrument was a matching '65. The spacing between the control knobs was changed in 1965 to match the guitar line, so only a percentage... more

Basso Elettrico Gibson EB-3

Catania , 95***, ITALY

€4000

Basso Elettrico Gibson EB-3.... more

1971 GIBSON EB 3 SLOTTED HEADSTOCK BASS CASE - Made in USA

COLOGNE, GERMANY

£385

1971 GIBSON EB 3 SLOTTED HEADSTOCK BASS CASE - made in USA :
* CASE ONLY !
* interior has stains
* tolex has rips
* all latches are working fine
* worn but solid
* check all pics
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1971 GIBSON EB 3 SLOTTED HEADSTOCK BASS CASE - made in USA

COLOGNE, GERMANY

€439

1971 GIBSON EB 3 SLOTTED HEADSTOCK BASS CASE - made in USA :
* CASE ONLY !
* interior has stains
* tolex has rips
* all latches are working fine
* worn but solid
* check all pics
PLENTY of PARTS for SALE
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1970 Gibson EB 3 BASS NUT USA

COLOGNE, GERMANY

£99

NARROW 42 mm version
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