Gibson EB-3

The Gibson EB-3 is a bass guitar that it basically the bass version of the popular Gibson SG electric guitar. You couldn't really compare the two instruments since they aren't of the same make, but the similarity lies in the look and shape of the body of the guitar. They started making the EB-3 in the 1960's, but the one that I played was a reissue of one that was made in the 1980's. The EB-3 has two pick ups - one humbucker and one smaller humbucker.

UTILIZATION

Playing and using the Gibson EB-3 is really a pleasure. It's got a great feeling neck that makes it easy to play both low and high on the neck. As I said earlier, it has the body like the SG guitar, which definitely makes it distinct when compared to any other bass guitar. Each pick up has tone and volume knobs, and there is a pick up selector that is unique looking as well. Getting a solid sound from the bass is easy, but as always it depends on what you're going for.

SOUNDS

For the type of bass that it is, the Gibson EB-3 has a really great sound. It has the type of tone that I'd described as being 'slappy,' as it has a lot of click and a percussive nature to it. It's great for playing with a pick, but it's also pretty versatile if you play around with the pick ups. Between the regular and the smaller humbucker, it's possible to get a good amount of different sounds, although they all do share a similar type of quality to them. I'd recommend this for rock and punk rock for the most part.

OVERALL OPINION

Overall, the Gibson EB-3 has a lot of style to it, and it's definitely a style that I dig. I don't know that I'd recommend it for all styles of music, but for what it does work for, it works extremely well. If you're interested in this bass in any capacity, it's definitely an interest that I'd encourage you to explore. It reminds me of something in between a Fender P-Bass and the Gibson Grabber. The EB-3 is definitely a classic bass at this point...

(Originally written by Rigoletto/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
Gibson EB3 made in the USA in 1973

Neck and bridge pickups, each with volume and tone controls plus 4-way varitone selector with presets.

Typical Gibson neck which I find very pleasant.

Same finish as an SG guitar, good manufacturing quality and sturdiness...

UTILIZATION

The neck is great and the access to the upper frets is perfect.

The guitar is made of massive mahogany so its heavy...

Super sound for blues and rock.

I currently use it with a 35-watt Hartke and it already sounds great.

SOUNDS

This bass guitar is quite versatile and it offers many sound possibilities.

But it's not ideal for slapping... It was born to rock!

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using it for a short time only but I'm very happy with it and it makes a great collector's instrument... and also a good investment: it's better to have one than a savings account

Much cheaper than a Fender Collector's and more rare.

It's truly a great bass.