1972 Gibson EB-0 bass

Another redesign!

The Gibson EBO was in constant flux over the course of it's production, but no more so than in the period 1970-72. The design shipped from very early 1970 was all-mahogany, and broadly resembled the 1960s bass, save the slotted headstock (see an early 1970 EB-0), but in 1972 the EB0 was redesigned again - an attempt to make a stronger, easier and cheaper to produce and tonally less bassy bass. Gibson tried a number of different approaches to construction and in appearance at this time, but all featured a new thicker, heavier body, a maple neck with solid headstock, and a silk-screened rather than pearl logo. This resulted in a more substantial, and certainly more robust instrument; broken headstocks and body cracks are comparatively rare in these later EBs. All also had a repositioned pickup, moved towards the bridge for a greater midrange response.

Some examples had controls mounted on a front scratchplate (see this 1972 Natural EB-0L), others had different body woods (alder), different number of neck laminations, clear or no scratchplates, clear-coated necks, different truss rod nut sizes, and a different width nut. But these guitars are very much the exception, with Gibson finally settling on the specifications shown here. The new style EB-0 (or a new style EB-0!) was first shown at the June 1972 NAMM show, with a price of $395 - a small increase on the $350 price a year earlier. The bass pictured was most likely built around, or just after, this time: the potentiometers of this bass are dated mid 1972, however the serial number suggest a very late 1972 shipping date, perhaps even early 1973.

1972 Gibson EB-0 specifications

1972 Gibson EB-0 specifications

This bass is typical of a the majority of Gibson's early seventies EB bass output: a mahogany body, three-piece maple neck, and rosewood fretboard. Like all Gibson's at this time, it was produced at the legendary Kalamazoo plant, Michigan, USA (where all their best guitars were built). Walnut was a finish widely used at this time, and was applied to almost half of the 1972 EB-0s produced: this is one of 423 walnut (compared to 507 cherry) EB-0 basses shipped in 1972. Like the majority of earlier examples, the bass had a short (30 1/2") scale and required short scale strings.

This style EB-0 was first included in the brightly coloured 1972 bass place brochure (right).

Notice the volute (on the back of the headstock) and Gibson logo on the spring mounted EB humbucker cover. The bridge is the two point tune-o-matic with cover, as used since around 1967, but now with metal, rather than plastic (Delrin) saddles, and NO underbridge mute. The three point bridge design was not in use until 1973. The tuning keys are Schaller M4-S which were used roughly in the period 1971-73. This style of pickguard was used on all EB models from 1972 until they were last produced in 1979. Finally, this EB0 has 21 frets, compared to the 19 (1970-71) or 20 (1961-69) on all previous examples.

The new design for '72 EBO had much of the same hardware as previous versions, but arranged slightly differently. The EB humbucker was positioned further back from the neck, to accentuate mid and high frequencies. The bridge now had no mute below it, and the output jack was moved back to the front of the bass' body where it had been prior to 1970. The scratchplate was completely different of course. Compare this bass with a 1970 EBO.

Gibson's Walnut finish over a mahogany body, is particularly appealing. Other finishes available at this time were cherry (also over a mahogany body) and natural, over an alder body (see a 1972 EB-O in natural finish).

This EB humbucker has the Gibson logo engraved into its cover, generally a feature of EB basses in around 1971-72, maybe 1973. These are the last slotted-headstock basses and the first of the redesigned, 70s maple-necked EB basses.

Witch-hat control knobs, with silver inserts. This picture also clearly shows the finish checking that is so common on old Gibson guitars and basses.

EB basses were more often than not fitted with under bridge mutes (like this 1970 EBO) up until around 1971. This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge, and chrome bridge cover, but no mute.

This bass is fitted with a two-point tune-o-matic bridge with metal saddles (as opposed to plastic used previously). From 1971 Gibson stopped using the mutes that were fitted under these bridges; instead a foam strip was attached to the underside of the bridge cover forming a mute of sorts - to unmute, simply remove the bridge cover! For comparison, have a look at a 1970 EBO bridge with underbridge mute and the old Delrin saddles.

Note the large body contour on the back of this bass.

Serial number stamped on the back of the headstock. The 'MADE IN USA' stamp beneath the serial number appeared on all instruments made by Gibson from 1970. Note the different quality of lettering compared to that of a 1970 EBO.

The seventies solid headstock EB0s did away with inlays; they had large headstocks with the Gibson logo silk-screened in gold. Note the one-ply black truss rod cover, mounted, as usual, with two screws and standard Gibson nut.

Three-piece maple neck and solid headstock. Elephant ear Schaller M-4-S tuning keys. Neck volute. The headstock of the post slotted headstock basses was bigger, stronger and far less breakable than any EB bass that had come before it. Breaks were not impossible, of course, but the extra strength behind the truss rod cavity (provided by the volute) certainly prevented many.

1972 Gibson EB-0 Electronics

The controls are identical to any EB-0: just a volume and tone, each with a witch hat control knob; but the output jack has moved back to the body front (rather than on the guitars edge, as was the case for the slotted headstock models). However, the loom itself has changed from older EB-0 incarnations, presumably as a result of the move in pickup location: previously the EB-0 had two identical 500k pots, as of '72 it had a 500k volume and 250k tone.

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.

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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, 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

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

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

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

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co