1973 Gibson EB-3

$2,995.00 CAD (USD $2,246.25)
For more details contact us at info@folkwaymusic.com or 855-772-0424.

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Gibson's EB-3 made its debut in the Summer of 1961, replacing the ES-335-style EB-2. Styled after the newly designed Les Paul Model - now referred to as the SG - the EB-3 was a leap ahead for Gibson in creating a more elaborate electric bass guitar. Featuring a four-pole version of the early mini-humbucker in the bridge position, full-sized bass humbucker in the neck, and 4-way rotary switch allowing for typically 3-way Gibson pickup switching along with a Baritone circuit, the EB-3 was a significantly more versatile bass than anything Gibson had built up to that point. 

The EB-3 remained largely unchanged from its introduction in 1961 until 1972, when Gibson repositioned the neck pickup closer to the bridge and reshaped the pickguard. The string mute was also removed, while the bridge and bridge cover remained otherwise unchanged. On the back, the control cavity cover was repositioned, and contours were added to the bass and treble-side waist for improved playing comfort.

Around the same time, Gibson updated the humbucker used in the neck position of the EB models. The original pickup, affectionately known as the “mud-bucker," typically measured around 30.0 kΩ and was known for its exceptionally dark and powerful voice. Its replacement was a low-impedance humbucker that offered greater clarity, articulation, and versatility. The EB-3 remained largely unchanged in this configuration until it was discontinued in 1979.

A nicely preserved early '70s build, this 1973 EB-3 is in good cosmetic condition and is completely original apart from a missing bridge cover. The original Cherry finish is largely unworn apart from some delamination at the bass-side lower bout. Minor chips, dents, scratches, and crazing can be found throughout the finish. A chip at the treble side corner of the headstock with a craze line in the wood does not pose any structural concern. All electronics are original and unmodified. 

This 1973 EB-3 is an excellent-sounding bass. Expect a full-bodied and punchy response with excellent clarity from the low-impedance humbucker in the neck position, which is complemented by the rich and articulate voice of the bridge humbucker. The neck profile feels quite natural in the hand, with a full depth offsetting the narrow nut width. The bass plays well with freshly dressed original frets. 

Pickup DC values of 6.1k in the bridge and 1.9k in the neck. Scale length of 30.3". First fret depth is 0.834", twelfth fret depth is 1.039", and the nut width is 1-9/16". Weight of 8lbs 14oz. 

With gig bag.