1959 Gibson EB-2 Sunburst, Very Good, Original Hard, $2,300.00

In 1958 Gibson introduced the EB-2 as a four-string companion to its flagship Electro Spanish model, the Es-335. Both the EB-2 and Es-335 feature a double cutaway bound semi-hollow thinline body with dual F-holes. The EB-2 is well-known for its dark and thumpy sound, derived in no small part from the large neck-positioned “Sidewinder” pickup (colloquially known as the “Mudbucker” for its dense tone). This particular EB-2 has a serial number of A 30552 which places it’s year of manufacture to 1959. Originally the ’59 EB-2s were fitted with a “Baritone” switch which enhanced or cut bass frequencies. That switch has been modified on this bass to be instead a 3-way selector switch to help reduce the sometimes overpowering low end it can produce. This one has a 30.5” scale with a mahogany neck and maple body. It also features the original backwards-facing “banjo” style tuning machines, as opposed to the more standard looking tuners Gibson began using in the mid-to-late ‘60s. It weighs in at a comfortable 8 ½ lbs. The bass has been refinished at some point with a gorgeous three tone sunburst finish around the body. This bass is definitely in player’s condition with cracks running both under the bridge and output jack. These cracks seem to be stable and do not seem to have any effect on the playability. It also has a repair at the back of the headstock that has been painted over; the repair is solid and again has no effect on the playability. The frets look to have been replaced at some point and still have plenty of life left to them. This EB-2 is an absolute joy to play with an extremely comfortable neck. It’s nice and chunky, measuring about 1 11/16th” at the nut. The bass has been strung with flat wounds and has that beloved ‘60s R&B sound down pat; run it through a vintage Ampeg B-15 and you’ll be in Bass Heaven! Includes original tan Gibson Lifton hard case.