Gibson EB2 bass

As the name might suggest, the EB2 was Gibson's second electric bass, the first being the moderately successful EB, launched in 1953. It was a companion model to the ES-335 guitar, having the same basic construction, but the electrical circuitry of the EB. The instrument was designed by Gibson engineer Larry Allers (though naturally borrowing heavily from it's companion guitar model, the ES-335) with production occurring exclusively at the Kalamazoo plant, Michigan, USA. The model was announced in February of 1958, with an initial price was $267.50 (Sunburst) or $282.50 (Natural), though basses didn't ship until the second half of the year. The model was first displayed publicly at the Chicago NAMM show of July 58 (see EB-2 timeline). Total production was in the order of 8500 basses - see EB2 shipping figures, with an approximate split 70:30 EB2 / EB2D.

The new EB-2 Electric Bass is the approximate size of a guitar and produces the tone of a string bass. It contains a 20 fret range on all four strings. The Double-Cutaway body has arched, curly maple top and back with matching maple rims and pearl dot binding. The fast-action neck is of mahogany with rosewood fingerboard.

The 1950s Gibson EB-2

By the summer of 1959, the pickup had been upgraded to the new Gibson EB bass humbucker. Although still mounted beneath a black Royalite cover, the new pickup is immediately obvious with it's centralised (rather than left-aligned) polepieces, and additional control button.

Gibson EB-2 development

Gibson's Ted McCarty was developing the ES (Electric Spanish) series of guitars in 1957, with a specific rationale in mind

The solid body guitar had become so popular and proved that their was a sustaining tone that you couldn't get out of other types of guitars, but it never was a real comfortable guitar. It was heavy or it was too small, and the thought was to make a guitar with hollow wings but a solid centre.

The EB2 followed suit; having the same laminate maple top, back and rims, with solid maple block running the length of the body, allowing a fixed combination bridge/tailpiece.

Initially the pickup was the same single-coil unit used on the EB: "powerful Alnico magnetic pickup with individually adjustable polepieces and ebony Royalite cover", with just a simple volume and tone control. In 1959, these were upgraded with Seth Lover's new EB humbucker, and additional 'baritone' functionality, via a tone switch.

The model continued to evolve throughout this period, with Larry Allers' under bridge mute appearing in mid-1960. This was available for users to retrofit (see announcement in Gibson Gazette here mute developed for electric bass) and it is impossible to determine what proportion (if any) of late 1960 / early 1961 EB2s left Kalamazoo with this mute fitted, and what proportion had them added later.

The banjo tuners were replaced by Kluson 538 open gear keys in 1960. This necessitated a somewhat wider headstock, and it seems the change from one to the other happened over a period of time, as older necks were used up.

Epiphone Rivoli

When Gibson bought Epiphone in 1957, they used the marque partially to increase dealership reach of their Kalamazoo-made instruments. New Epiphone models based largely on existing Gibsons appeared; an EB2 equivalent, the Epiphone EBV232, or Rivoli first shipped in 1959 (just one instrument), see Rivoli shipping figures. The Rivoli had a different shape headstock, and scratchplate, but was otherwise identical to the EB2.

EB2 sales in this period were marginally better than the EB, but by no means great, whilst sales of the Rivoli barely reached double figures. When, in 1960, orders halved from the previous year, the writing was on the wall for the EB2 (see EB2 shipping figures). In 1961, Gibson announced the new EB3; "A completely re-designed and re-styled Electric Bass — Model EB-3, replaces the EB-2". Likewise the Newport Deluxe replaced the Rivoli.

But although the public had been slow to patronise the new basses, they soon caught up. In post-war, pre-beat boom Britain, UK-built guitars were fairly rudimentary, and serious musicians played imported guitars: typically Hofners from West Germany. American guitars were very hard to find, and very expensive even if you could. But by 1962, distribution deals had been set up for Gibson (Selmer) and Epiphone (Rosetti); finally these brands were available in the UK, but by this time both models were discontinued. But the demand for a high quality hollow body bass was still present, and if anything, growing. With the British Beat Boom in full swing, it seems UK players were spearheading the demand for these instruments.

1964 EB-2 reissue

Production of the Rivoli resumed in 1963, with the EB2 joining it in early 1964. From this point onwards the EB2 was significantly more successful, with production increasing year on year until 1967. Natural finish was no longer offered, however translucent Cherry was (from 1965) and later Sparkling Burgundy (1967), and Walnut (1968). Prior to 1967, non-sunburst finishes were typically priced $15 higher, though prices were levelled out for the last few years of production.

Gibson EB-2D

A nice array of Gibson EB2 basses, photo Stuart Lorriman

The dual pickup EB-2D was launched towards the end of 1967, and was well received, outselling the other dual pickup basses, the EB3 and Thunderbird IV in 1967 and 1968 - see EB-2 shipping statistics. It kept the same neck pickup, and baritone button, but added an EB mini-humbucker in the bridge position. Similar to the EB3, but with a three-way pickup selector switch replacing the varitone. In fact, with the baritone button and three-way switch, it was more versatile than the EB3, which only offered the baritone setting with the neck pickup (i.e. position 1, neck pickup plus choke). Naturally, the extra pickup had it's own volume and tone control.

Gibson EB-2 soundclips

Have a listen to the EB-2 bass, played through a 1964 Ampeg B15. More clips here Gibson EB-2D soundclips.

EB-2 discontinuation

The EB-2 had been a very popular instrument (as Gibson basses go) in the late mid 1960s, however, 1969, by comparison was a terrible year. Shipping figures (admittedly incomplete) suggest a 60% drop on 1968 levels, dropping further still in 1970. Gibson had all but given up on the single pickup EB-2 by early 1970, donating 150 basses to the US war effort in Viet Nam (February 1970) - this was a significant proportion, around half of the EB-2 total for 1970. The model was included in the March 1970 price list, but was notably absent in the September 1970 list.

The EB-2D did soldier on, however. Shipping data beyond 1970 is not available, but it remained in price lists as late as October 1972, and examples may have trickled out of Kalamazoo for another year or two beyond this time.

Gibson EB-2 bass guitars for sale

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1964 Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar with Hard Shell Vintage Flight Case

Chantilly, Virginia, 201**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5200

1964 Gibson EB-2 Bass with Hard Shell Vintage Flight Case.

The Gibson comes with a stellar silver and gold very early flight case you could ship it overseas in that thing and I wouldn't be afraid. It came from a very high end Collection and is in extremely good condition and will not find one in better shape. Plays and sounds amazing, has the stock bass boost switch that gets super deep tones and a very very cool bass!!!!  It is so clean you can eat off of it!!! Jimmy page... more

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

1958 Gibson EB-2 1st year Museum Quality 100% original its 1 of a kind & Minty !

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

$9995

This is a truly superb original example of one of the rarer Gibson electric basses: the first-generation semi-hollow EB-2. The EB-2 in general is not a overly rare bass, but these earliest models built in the debut year were sold in only small numbers; many more were built in 1964-68 when production was at its peak. The ES-335 guitar from 1958 is one of Gibson??s most treasured and sought after instruments; this matching bass is actually considerably rarer, if not as highly in demand ! The EB-2 ... more

1968 Gibson EB2D Bass with Hard Shell Case

Bridgeport, West Virginia, 263**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3700

This Gibson EB2D bass is in very good condition. We listedit as "very good" because of the neck repairs, but if not for thatissue, it probably could be considered "excellent " The best we candetermine, the bass is a 1968. The pots are clearly marked 1967, and the dateranges for the bass is 1966-1969. Also has the mini humbucker in bridge. Itappears they only made 2000 of these with the mini humbuckers throughout theentire 60's. It has had the common repair where the headstock meets the neck, and... more

1968 Epiphone Rivoli EB232 Vintage Semi-Hollow Bass Cherry w / Case

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

$2900

Up for sale, a 1968 Epiphone Rivoli EB232 in perfect working order, complete with a hardshell case. Crafted by Gibson at their Kalamazoo factory and structurally identical to the Gibson EB-2, the Rivoli boasts an ES body shape loaded with a solitary ??Mudbucker?? pickup. This Rivoli also features the later (and much less common) bridge design with flip-up string mute and independent nylon saddles
The semi-hollow body is crafted from maple (maple centerblock), paired with a mahogany neck and ... more

1968 Gibson EB-2 Vintage Semi-Hollow Short Scale Bass Sunburst w / Case

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

$2700

Up for sale, a 1968 Gibson EB-2 in excellent condition and in perfect working order, complete with a hardshell case. The EB-2 has the body shape and maple construction of Gibson's ES guitars, and the modern Hipshot SuperTone bridge is a substantive upgrade, enhancing the sustain, stability and articulation of this model in a meaningful way. Strung with 45-105 roundwound strings on the 30 1 / 2" scale, this bass features powerful, thick-sounding "Mudbucker" mounted in the neck position, yielding ... more

1968 Gibson EB2D Bass with Hard Shell Case

Glen Ellyn, Illinois, 601**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2200

This is a 1968 Gibson EB2D. There is a head stock repair made at some point in its history. The body and rest of the neck is in great condition. There are finish checkings across the body but that's to be expected
That mudbucker in the neck is wooly! And the bridge has bite! The switches and knobs work as they should with a little scratchiness as you use them. Aside from that you won't notice it.
Comes with non original case
... more

1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass

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

$8695

1959 Gibson EB-2 Bass, Sunburst finish, Booming Humbucking pickup withBlack Plastic cover, Nickel parts, Full feeling neck, Fine bass! Hang tag, VG++, Original hard case... more

1967 Gibson EB-2C Bass fabulous special ordered EB-2 in "Sparkling Burgundy" !

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

$6495

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-2C??s from 1967. Its beautiful slightly faded original ??Sparkling Burgundy?? custom color finish is what this is all about & it??s so frickin rare. Its 1 piece mahogany neck feel delicious. No volute nor Made in the USA stamp. She??s got a perfect orange label too. Its pickgard is missing. Its ... more

1967 Epiphone EB-232 Rivoli Short Scale Electric Bass Sunburst !

Peckville, Pennsylvania, 184**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3395

The Vintage Reserve at Pristine Auctions is proud to present this awesome 1967 Epiphone Gibson EB-232 Rivoli Electric Bass Serial Number 068624. This is one of the coolest Vintage Basses we have ever encountered at our shop and it is so clean. This thing is honestly one the best sounding vintage basses we have ever had and it is ready for it next show or session in a recording studio. When you press the button, it just takes it to a whole different level of vintage sound. The low end ... more

Gibson 1964 EB-2 Electric Bass excellent original Condition

Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43***, UNITED KINGDOM

£3322

1964 GIBSON EB2 - Serial No 67976
Owned over 30 years . . . I've played a few of these over the years, none of them as good as this . . . I've owned tens of Gibson basses and let them all go. this has a great straight neck, a lovely action, and perfect intonation, unlike most. The finish is superb and not crazed. It's been little used in recent years outside the home / studio, and never goes anywhere without great care and attention in a premium case. That said, it's not an ornament, it gets ... more

Vintage Gibson 1966 EB-2 Hollowbody Bass Guitar with Sunburst Finish

Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B***, CANADA

C $3850

Vintage Hollow body Bass

Vintage original 1966 Gibson EB-2 Hollowbody Bass in original Sunburst finish.
The tone is thick and warm.
All original, except for a missing metal thumb rest.
The finish does showcase some checking, and the original case is intact but worn.

... more

Gibson EB-2 1967 Sunburst Bass 335 Semi Hollow

Bari, 70***, ITALY

€4900

Gibson EB-2 1967 Sunburst. For Sale Directly From My Private Collection! In Amazing Condition .The Headstock is without any scratches, Sounds Amazing With its original "Baritone switch " ! Original Case, Truss rod key, Case key and amazing Hang Tags! Body Semi Hollow with Laminated Maple Neck Mahogany Fretboard Brasilian Rosewood Pickup Original EB Humbucking Original and Perfectly Working String mute Original Case and Documents... more

Gibson 1964 EB-2 Used Electric Bass Good Condition

Widnes, WA8***, UNITED KINGDOM

£3457

This Gibson 1964 EB-2 Used Electric Bass is a great addition to any musician's collection. With a semi-hollow body type and 4 string configuration, this bass is perfect for any right-handed player. The bass comes with a hard shell original case and cable for added convenience. The unit quantity is 1 and the country / region of manufacture is the United States. This bass is a vintage piece and has a unique sound that cannot be replicated. It is perfect for any player who wants to elevate their ... more

RARE 1968 Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar In Sparkling Burgundy Metallic WITH HARDCASE

Newcastle upon Tyne, NE12***, UNITED KINGDOM

£6500

An incredibly rare and beautiful example of a late 60s Gibson EB-2 bass (as played by the likes of Chas Chandler etc )

In a very rare factory-original Sparkling Burgundy Metallic finish. These finishes were done at the factory back in the day over the top of sunburst finishes if there were any imperfections, so these are pretty hard to find - especially in such great condition!

The finish does show signs of use and the usual checking / patina, as is to be expected of an ... more

1967 EPIPHONE RIVOLI Bass Guitar - EB 232C in CHERRY with hard shell case

London, SW6***, UNITED KINGDOM

£4650

NEW KINGS ROAD VINTAGE GUITAR EMPORIUM IS DELIGHTED TO OFFER FOR SALE THIS
1967 EPIPHONE RIVOLI Bass - EB 232C CHERRY
Incredibly clean, this exceptional condition Epiphone Rivoli was produced by Gibson in their Kalamazoo plant, after Gibson bought the brand in the late 1950s. Identical construction to a Gibson EB2, the only difference being the headstock design and inlays. In a solid 9 out of 10 condition, has a few tiny dings but overall it's in wonderful condition This Rivoli,... more

Epiphone Rivoli Semi-Hollow Electric Bass in Cherry, with Gig Bag (Used)

Birmingham, B18***, UNITED KINGDOM

£1050

- Overall: Very Good condition.
- Frets: Good condition, no issues.
- Hardware: All original. Missing pickguard.
- Electronics: All original, no issues.
- Finish: This Bass Guitar is in Very Good condition with minimal wear through previous usage
* Gig Bag included.
* Please note all of our USED / EX-DISPLAY Guitars & Basses are checked, tested, cleaned and set up professionally by our Luthiers before dispatching. All of our Used Guitars ... more

Epiphone Rivoli EBV232 Vintage 1963 Semi-Acoustic Bass Kalamazoo(Gibson) '63+OHC

Milano, 20***, ITALY

€2950

Epiphone Rivoli EBV232 Vintage Semi-Acoustic Bass . Qualche segno del tempo ma nessun problema strutturale, ottima la action e la suonabilità (c'è comunque margine e modo di personalizzarla come si desidera). Prodotto a Kalamazoo nel 1963 ed originale in ogni sua parte. Manca il suo battipenna ma si trovano ottime repliche anche su eBay
Suono notevole, vero vintage sound!!
Custodia rigida originale compresa
Vendita tra privati con formula AS / IS senza alcun diritto di ... more

1959 Gibson EB-2 Semi-Hollow Electric Bass in Sunburst, with Hard Case (Used)

Birmingham, B18***, UNITED KINGDOM

£5500

- Overall: Very Good condition.
- Frets: Good condition, no issues.
- Hardware: All original.
- Electronics: All original, no issues.
- Finish: This Guitar is in Very Good condition with minimal wear through age and previous usage
* Hard Case included.
* Please note all of our USED / EX-DISPLAY Guitars & Basses are checked, tested, cleaned and set up professionally by our Luthiers before dispatching. All of our Used Guitars come ... more

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