The EB-0 bass had the simplest of circuitry, two pots, one each to control volume and tone, an input jack, and two capacitors. The value of the tone pot (and capacitors, but see below) did change slightly when the pickup position was moved away from the neck to a more central position in 1972 (see a 1972 EB0); and there may have been instances where unusual value parts were used, either for experimentation, by accident, or to use up stock - if you have an EB0 with non-standard circuitry, please comment.
Potentiometers were typically made by Centralab (code 134) in earlier examples, and CTS (code 137) later on. There was significant cross-over with looms with a pot by each maker also common.
1961-1971 EB0
Gibson EB-0 circuit diagram from the 1960s. Note each pot has a 500kΩ resistance and capacitors of 0.01µF and 0.033µF. This diagram also corresponds with the Gibson parts list of January 1965 which lists the EB-0 as having identical volume and tone pots: part number CBA-811-1053. Pots used were typically produced either by Centralab or CTS.
This schematic is correct for the Gibson Melody Maker, and Kalamazoo KB basses.
The two simplified wiring diagrams below show the precise connections on the looms of early examples.
The above illustration demonstrates the exact circuit connections in the schematic above, from 1961-64 approximately.
Have a closer look at some actual looms using this circuit
This 1964 EB-0 has the same circuitry but a smaller value (250kΩ) tone pot. Click for further details.
This illustration shows effectively the same circuit, with slight changes to the wiring of the .01 µF capacitor; in each case it sits between the volume pot contact and earth. This circuit variation starts around 1965.
Have a closer look at some actual looms using this circuit
By the time of publication of the 1971 Gibson parts list, the suggested potentiometers for the EB-0 are parts 70027 (500kΩ, volume) and 70021 (250kΩ,tone); one would assume that this refers to the slotted headstock models in production at that time (and not the newer, maple-necked, solid headstock basses that would replace them), in practise the majority of these basses actually seem to have a 500kΩ tone pot, often part BA-811-1158. What is pots are in your slotted headstock EB0? Please comment.
Early/mid 1972 transition EB0
This circuit is an intermediate between the 1961-71 and 1972 onwards circuitry. Exactly how common it is is not clear, but it was certainly used for a brief time in early/mid 1972. It has the capacitors of earlier looms, yet has the 250kΩ tone pot, typically seen on post '72 EB0s.
The pots used at this stage (in the few examples of this loom I have studied) have been a mix of CTS and Centralab (seen an exception? Please comment).
Have a closer look at some actual looms using this circuit
Typical 1970s Gibson EB0, 1972 onwards
Gibson EB-0 circuit relevant to EB basses circa 1972 and onwards. The tone capacitor values and tone pot resistance have both been lowered, having a subtle effect on tone: dropping higher and lower frequencies, and boosting mids.
Gibson EB-0 bass guitars for sale
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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 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
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
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
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
... 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
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
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
Featuring solid Honduran mahogany construction and a rosewood fretboard, this EB-0 weighs 7lbs 13oz. The famous ??Mudbucker?? pickup ... 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
Lightweight at 6lbs 11oz, this EB-0 features solid Honduran mahogany construction and a rosewood fretboard. The famous ??Mudbucker?? pickup ... 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
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 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
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
Vintage Gibson EB-0 Cherry 1965
Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1999
Vintage Gibson EB-0 Cherry 1965
PLEASE CONTACT US WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR AN IN-HAND DESCRIPTION
A dynamite player with an ultra cool, true vintage vibe! The full size neck humbucker offers a warm, rich tone & the short scale makes playing tons of fun. Professionally set up & ready to play straight out of the case
Cosmetic Condition: Various nicks, chips, dents & dings; scratches, weather checking & some finish wear. There's a minor headstock crack on the treble ... 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
Gibson 1972 EB-O Mahogany Body(Walnut Finish), 3 Piece Maple Neck w / 22?? Short Scale 21 ... 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
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
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-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
Gibson EST 1964 / 1969 EB-0 Electric Bass
Chesapeake, Virginia, 233**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1500
PREOWNEDGIBSON EB-0 ELECTRIC BASS GUITAR
EST. 1964 / 1969, FEATURING RARE FIND, SLOTTED HEADSTOCK
COMES WITH ORIGINAL CASE! INSIDE OF CASE COND. IS FINE, HOWEVER THE EXTERNAL SHAPE OF THE CASE IS POOR. LOTS OF TEARS AND ATTEMPTED FIXES
THE GIBSON ITSELF IS IN FAIR SHAPE, SOME DINGS AND WEAR FROM USE. ITEM IS AS PICTURED ABOVE. MESSAGE WITH ANY QUESTIONS!
* FEDEX SHIPPING ONLY *NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE LOWER 48 STATES *
... more
EST. 1964 / 1969, FEATURING RARE FIND, SLOTTED HEADSTOCK
COMES WITH ORIGINAL CASE! INSIDE OF CASE COND. IS FINE, HOWEVER THE EXTERNAL SHAPE OF THE CASE IS POOR. LOTS OF TEARS AND ATTEMPTED FIXES
THE GIBSON ITSELF IS IN FAIR SHAPE, SOME DINGS AND WEAR FROM USE. ITEM IS AS PICTURED ABOVE. MESSAGE WITH ANY QUESTIONS!
* FEDEX SHIPPING ONLY *NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE LOWER 48 STATES *
... 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
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
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
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
There are 3 comments on this article so far. Add your comment
Lee Murray Comment left 23rd April 2019 19:07:36 reply
What is the purpose of the extra .01 capacitor?
What is the purpose of the extra .01 capacitor?
Andy Comment left 21st May 2019 04:04:00 reply
The 0.01 cap kills high frequencies. I used to own both a EB-4L and an EB-0 (slotted headstock). If I had known this cap was in there, I would have disconnected one end because the cap makes the bass so dull and muddy. Way back when these basses were made, (in my opinion) Gibson and others wanted to simulate the tone of upright basses. Anything that sounded clanky or too treble-y would have been undesirable. I recently purchased a Gibson SG bass (made in 2012) and I checked that there was no 0.01uF cap installed. My ears told me it wasn't there, but I had to look inside just to be sure.
The 0.01 cap kills high frequencies. I used to own both a EB-4L and an EB-0 (slotted headstock). If I had known this cap was in there, I would have disconnected one end because the cap makes the bass so dull and muddy. Way back when these basses were made, (in my opinion) Gibson and others wanted to simulate the tone of upright basses. Anything that sounded clanky or too treble-y would have been undesirable. I recently purchased a Gibson SG bass (made in 2012) and I checked that there was no 0.01uF cap installed. My ears told me it wasn't there, but I had to look inside just to be sure.
Terry Falk Comment left 15th December 2015 22:10:40 reply
I have a 1966 EBO which I have owned since 1969. I never messed with the tone control(always all the up) because it never sounded good. After 40 years I decided to investigate and found that the .033 cap was soldered to the top of the tone pot instead of the wiper. I believe it was always that way because the solder joints appeared to be untouched. I had the bass refinished by Gibson in 2010. It is wonderful and since I have no desire to ever sell it, I don't care if it affects the "vintage" price. Regards, Terry Falk
I have a 1966 EBO which I have owned since 1969. I never messed with the tone control(always all the up) because it never sounded good. After 40 years I decided to investigate and found that the .033 cap was soldered to the top of the tone pot instead of the wiper. I believe it was always that way because the solder joints appeared to be untouched. I had the bass refinished by Gibson in 2010. It is wonderful and since I have no desire to ever sell it, I don't care if it affects the "vintage" price. Regards, Terry Falk