Eastwood Newport (EB-S)

To me personally, yes. I played one ('65 or '66) last year after decades of not even thinking about this model, and it was just amazing.

Modern bridge and lack of a *real* Sidewinder PU kill any interest that I might have had in the Eastwood, though. By the time I'd be done with the hacking it would come dangerously close to the price of a less-than-mint original Epi.

My $0.02 only...

 

The one wound to original specs. No one does it anymore - Gibson included - so I'm not trashing Eastwood, just stating a fact.

 

that does absolutely nothing for me.

 

Just wound to the original specs - or close to them - would be fine by me. I can make it brighter/mellower/cleaner/muddier as needed.

 

Nope

 

The original was built as the cheaper Epiphone version of the Gibson EB-0, and in fact was built in the Kalamazoo factory alongside the EB-0. The sound was comparable as they were made from the same wood and had that same humbucker pickup at the neck. Ebay has the original 1965 Newport that the Eastwood is based upon going for $2000 and up. If you are a fan of the short scale tone and feel, and if you happen to like the modern Epiphone SG and Gibson SG Bass then this is one to check out. I already have one on preorder.

 

In the subject of the pickup, I believe they are using the same pickup they used on the Eastwood EB-1 on the Newport. The pickup is really nice and clean on the EB-1 and if I had to speculate what it will sound like on the Newport I will guess it will sound a bit beefier but will retain some of the mid range clarity. I don't think you will get the "mudbucking" sound of the original, but I think it will be cleaner. more versatile and practical than the original.

 

Get one of these and the reissue EPI Deluxe and you are set.

 

Have you received the Eastwood Newport? I am really curious about this bass

 

They received the finished first run last week and they are doing the final detail work right now. I will post an update when I get my shopping confirmation but I expect mine this week.

 

I will, and I will post pics and a review as well.

 

I received an email last night that I can expect the Eastwood Newport Bass tomorrow. I am not excited at all. I may need to take a sick day on Friday. Nope, not excited.

 

It is in and it is wonderful. I will set to work on a proper review when I get through the weekend gig.

 

How is the balance?

You're consistent with short scale basses.