1968 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Short Scale Bass Guitar Vintage USA Bass, (Used)

The 1968 Gibson EB-0 in Cherry is a vintage USA-made short-scale bass with unmistakable Gibson character. Known for its compact 30.5" scale length, SG-style body, set-neck construction and powerful neck-position humbucker, the EB-0 delivers a deep, warm and rounded bass voice that has made it a favourite with players looking for classic 1960s Gibson low-end.

This pre-owned example is listed in Good condition, meaning it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional and ready to play.

This bass is supplied with a non-original hardcase. It currently has non-original tuners fitted, and the original tuners are included in the case, making this a strong player-grade vintage Gibson with useful original parts retained.

At A Glance

Key Detail	Information
Brand	Gibson
Model	EB-0
Year	1968
Finish	Cherry
Country of Manufacture	USA
Type	Solid Body Electric Bass Guitar
Body Style	SG-Style EB Bass
Scale Length	30.5" Short Scale
Pickup Configuration	Single Neck Pickup
Pickup Type	Gibson Sidewinder / “Mudbucker” Humbucker
Electronics	Passive
Current Tuners	Non-Original Tuners Fitted
Original Tuners	Included in Case
Case	Non-Original Hardcase Included
Condition	Pre-Owned, Good Condition
Main Appeal	Vintage 1960s Gibson short-scale bass with huge warm neck-pickup tone
Best For	Blues, rock, soul, garage, indie, classic rock, recording and vintage bass collectors
Skill Level	Intermediate to professional, vintage bass enthusiasts and players wanting short-scale feel

Condition Overview

Good Condition

This 1968 Gibson EB-0 is in Good condition. This means it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional.

Good condition is appropriate for a player-grade vintage instrument that has been used and enjoyed. Cosmetic wear should be expected on a bass of this age, and it adds to the authentic vintage character of the instrument.

What’s Included?

✔ 1968 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Bass Guitar
✔ Non-Original Hardcase
✔ Original Tuners Included in Case

✘ No Additional Accessories Included

Condition Notes

This bass shows noticeable signs of previous use, which may include visible marks, scratches, small dings, finish wear, checking or general age-related cosmetic wear consistent with Good condition.

The bass currently has non-original tuners fitted. The original tuners are included in the case, which is useful for players or collectors who want to retain the original parts with the instrument.

The supplied hardcase is non-original.

No other faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for this listing. The bass has been checked for playability and functionality before sale.

Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment

This pre-owned 1968 Gibson EB-0 has been inspected and assessed by the Fair Deal Music team before being offered for sale.

Our checks include:

• Electronics tested
• Neck-position humbucker checked
• Volume and tone controls checked
• Output jack tested
• Frets inspected
• Fingerboard checked
• Neck condition assessed
• Current non-original tuners checked
• Bridge checked
• Hardware inspected
• General playability assessed
• Original tuners visually noted in case
• Non-original hardcase checked for basic usability

Service / Setup Work

All pre-owned bass guitars at Fair Deal Music are set up and checked before leaving the shop.

This 1968 Gibson EB-0 has been assessed for playability, with the following checked:

• Action checked
• Neck relief checked
• Frets inspected
• Tuning stability checked with the currently fitted tuners
• Electronics tested
• Pickup output checked
• Hardware checked
• Bridge setup checked
• Intonation checked

Please note that bass guitar setup can sometimes shift slightly during delivery due to changes in temperature and humidity. We take this into account during our checks, but wood can naturally move in transit.

Why Choose The 1968 Gibson EB-0 Cherry?

Genuine 1960s Gibson Vintage Character

A 1968 Gibson EB-0 is a true vintage USA-made Gibson bass from one of the most recognisable periods in the brand’s history. It offers the feel, finish ageing and tonal personality that only comes from an instrument with decades of use and natural musical history.

Short-Scale Comfort

The EB-0 is known for its 30.5" short scale length, giving it a softer string feel and easier left-hand reach than a standard long-scale bass. This makes it especially comfortable for players moving from guitar to bass, players with smaller hands or anyone who prefers a more compact bass feel.

Huge Neck-Pickup Tone

The EB-0’s large neck-position humbucker, often nicknamed the “Mudbucker”, is famous for its deep, warm and powerful low-end response. It is ideal for players who want thick vintage bass tones rather than a bright modern hi-fi sound.

Classic Cherry Finish

Cherry is the defining EB-0 finish and looks fantastic against the SG-style body shape. On a vintage example, the finish naturally carries the visual character and wear expected from a 1960s instrument.

Player-Grade Practicality

Because this bass is in Good condition and has non-original tuners fitted, it is best viewed as a player-grade vintage Gibson rather than a museum-grade collector piece. The original tuners being included in the case helps retain important original parts with the instrument.

Non-Original Hardcase Included

The included non-original hardcase gives useful protection for storage and transport, making this a practical package for players who want to use and enjoy the bass.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Gibson EB-0 vs Gibson EB-3

The EB-3 adds a bridge pickup and extra switching for greater tonal range. The EB-0 is simpler, more direct and strongly focused around its large neck-position humbucker sound.

Gibson EB-0 vs Fender Precision Bass

A Fender Precision Bass usually has a longer 34" scale and a punchier, more mid-forward split-coil sound. The EB-0 is shorter-scale, warmer, thicker and more vintage Gibson in character.

Gibson EB-0 vs Fender Mustang Bass

Both are short-scale basses, but the Mustang Bass has a brighter Fender-style response. The EB-0 has a deeper, rounder and heavier neck-pickup voice.

Gibson EB-0 vs Epiphone EB-0

An Epiphone EB-0 gives players an affordable route into the EB-style format. A 1968 Gibson EB-0 offers genuine vintage USA manufacture, period character and stronger collector appeal.

Who Is It For?

Vintage Gibson Bass Fans

This is ideal for players and collectors who appreciate 1960s Gibson basses and the distinctive EB-0 sound.

Short-Scale Bass Players

The 30.5" scale length makes this a comfortable choice for players who prefer easier stretches and a more relaxed string feel.

Blues, Rock And Soul Players

The EB-0’s thick low-end voice works well for blues, soul, classic rock, garage and vintage-inspired rhythm sections.

Recording Musicians

The EB-0 can deliver a dark, rounded and characterful bass tone that sits differently in a mix from a Precision or Jazz Bass.

Players Wanting A Character Instrument

This bass is not about modern hi-fi brightness. It is about warmth, depth, simplicity and vintage personality.

Suitable Genres And Uses

This 1968 Gibson EB-0 Cherry is well suited to:

• Blues
• Classic rock
• Garage rock
• Soul
• Vintage pop
• Indie
• Alternative
• Americana
• Roots music
• Studio recording
• Live performance
• Rehearsals
• Short-scale bass playing
• Fingerstyle bass
• Pick playing
• Players wanting a warm vintage Gibson bass tone

Educational Section: Why Choose A Vintage Short-Scale Gibson Bass?

A vintage short-scale Gibson bass offers a different playing experience from many modern long-scale instruments. The shorter scale length gives the strings a more relaxed feel, while the compact body makes the instrument comfortable for long sessions.

The EB-0 is especially distinctive because of its neck-position humbucker. This pickup placement creates a deep, thick and warm voice with plenty of low-end weight. It is ideal for players who want a bass that sounds round, vintage and full rather than sharp or ultra-modern.

A 1968 EB-0 also brings the appeal of vintage USA Gibson construction, real age and a design that stands apart from more common Fender-style basses. For players who want a bass with identity, history and a huge warm voice, this is a compelling choice.

Looking for advice on choosing the right vintage Gibson bass, short-scale bass or pre-owned instrument? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Story & Context: The Gibson EB-0

The Gibson EB-0 was introduced in 1959 and later adopted the SG-style body shape that became closely associated with the model throughout the 1960s. It was designed as a short-scale bass with a simple layout and a powerful neck-position pickup, giving it a deep, distinctive sound unlike many Fender-style instruments.

By 1968, the EB-0 had become one of Gibson’s most recognisable bass designs. Its compact feel, warm humbucker sound and bold Cherry finish gave it a strong identity on stage and in the studio.

This 1968 example, supplied with a non-original hardcase and original tuners retained in the case, is a characterful player-grade vintage Gibson with real musical appeal.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Solid Body Electric Bass Guitar
Brand	Gibson
Model	EB-0
Year	1968
Country of Manufacture	USA
Finish	Cherry
Body Shape	SG-Style EB Bass
Body Material	Mahogany
Neck Construction	Set Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Fingerboard Material	Rosewood
Scale Length	30.5"
Pickup Configuration	Single Pickup
Pickup Type	Gibson Sidewinder / “Mudbucker” Humbucker
Electronics	Passive
Controls	Volume, Tone
Switching	None
Current Tuners	Non-Original Tuners Fitted
Original Tuners	Included in Case
Case	Non-Original Hardcase Included
String Configuration	4-String Bass
Condition	Pre-Owned, Good Condition

Specification Note

This listing states the confirmed supplied details: 1968 Gibson EB-0, Cherry finish, non-original hardcase, non-original tuners fitted, and original tuners included in the case. Further originality details such as pickup dates, pot codes, bridge originality, solder joints and exact hardware history should be confirmed through direct inspection.

Power Requirements

No power supply or battery is required. This is a passive electric bass and only needs a standard 1/4" instrument cable and a suitable bass amplifier, pedalboard, PA system or audio interface.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★☆ 4/5

The 1968 Gibson EB-0 Cherry is a superb player-grade vintage bass for anyone who wants authentic 1960s Gibson character, short-scale comfort and a huge warm neck-pickup sound. Its compact feel, passive simplicity and unmistakable EB-0 voice make it a brilliant alternative to more common Fender-style basses.

This Good condition example is ideal for players who want a usable vintage Gibson with real character. The non-original tuners and non-original case are clearly noted, while the original tuners being included in the case adds important retained original parts value.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment
Competitive prices on leading music brands
Secure UK-wide delivery
Flexible finance options available (subject to status)
Friendly support before and after your purchase
A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

FAQ

What condition is this 1968 Gibson EB-0 in?

This bass is listed in Good condition, meaning it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional.

Does this Gibson EB-0 come with a case?

Yes. It comes with a hardcase, but the case is non-original.

Are the tuners original?

The bass currently has non-original tuners fitted. The original tuners are included in the case.

Is this a short-scale bass?

Yes. The Gibson EB-0 uses a 30.5" short scale length.

What pickup does the Gibson EB-0 use?

The EB-0 is known for its large neck-position Gibson Sidewinder humbucker, often nicknamed the “Mudbucker”.

What does the EB-0 sound like?

It has a deep, warm, rounded and powerful low-end voice, with a darker vintage character than many long-scale Fender-style basses.

What styles does this bass suit?

It suits blues, classic rock, soul, garage rock, vintage pop, indie, alternative, roots music, recording and live performance.

Is this suitable for collectors?

Yes, but because it has non-original tuners fitted and a non-original case, it is best described as a player-grade vintage Gibson with collector interest rather than a fully original collector-grade example.

Does it require a battery?

No. This is a passive electric bass and does not require a battery.

Can I try this bass in-store?

Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on vintage Gibson basses, short-scale basses and pre-owned instruments.