New Gibson EB bass

[georgestrings]

Necks like baseball bats?? Sorry, but my Gibsons have necks that are narrow and super fast, similar to my MIJ Ibanez Soundgears which are known for being "pencil thin". I'd much rather spend a whole night on my Thunderbird IV than my Fender P-bass. The P-bass has "the look" for the oldies project I play with, but compared to the Thunderbird, it weighs more, has a wider neck with a chunkier profile, causes my shoulder to cramp more, and has a midrange "planky" sound that I really have to dial out on the amp. The P-bass has it's own thing that works for a lot of folks, but the T-bird just works better for me.

Yeah, the neck on my Gibson T-bird IV feels almost exactly like the neck on my Music Man Sterling - both of which are smaller and faster than the necks on my 2 MIA Fender Jazz basses... and the T-bird is lighter than any of the 4 Fenders I currently own...


-georgestrings

 

[georgestrings]

What is it with Gibson and Ric threads that people feel they just have to jump in and say something bad?

I don't jump into threads about basses I don't like and will never own unless the op is asking should I get bass A or bass B, what do you think.

Well, there are a few regulars that do the same thing on Fender threads, too - I just don't understand that...


- georgestrings

 

[smcd]

Fender's two top sellers (J and P) are 50 year old designs. Ernie Ball's top seller is a 35 year old design. Hofner's main bass is a 50 year old design. Rickenbacker's is a 50 year old design. That is what the majority of people want, the classics.

There are plenty of companies producing newer designs if you want (Ibanez, ESP, etc.), but the classic designs from the classic companies are everywhere.

I just don't see why it is an issue when Gibson does it, and not an issue when everyone else does.

Ric is guilty - more guilty - than Gibson of living off the past. Fender, also guilty, but they've made a better effort at introducing good new models. EBMM, though, has been a pioneer in introducing interesting new basses. The Big Al, Bongo, and Reflex are all unique, innovative, and excellent.

Gibson can't compete against Fender in the bass market. On the other hand, that should free them up to do more interesting things. But they don't. They don't even try.

 

[TBird1958]

It's completely irrelevant whether Gibson is primarily a guitar maker. They're a major manufacturer of basses, and as such are compelled to satisfy their customer base. Gibson's current line of basses is ABSOLUTELY a rehash of old designs. That especially includes the RD, Explorer and G3. They may have made improvements in the pickup design (God I hope so), but all but one of their bass models are virtual mirror images of 30+ year old designs.


What exact community is there outside of TB that considers threads like this "a joke"? I have a very hard time believing that. Most bashers in this thread (whether I agree with them or not) do seem to know at least something of what they're talking about. They either currently own or have owned Gibson basses, and that gives them enough purchase to state their opinion.

Did what I posted go over your head?

Gibson's primary focus has always been guitars - not basses, yes they've produced them for many years, but they're not what the company does as a primary product - Get it?
In terms of production count they are not a major manufacturer, as someone who's interest is Gibson basses they done more models in past two years than you know, frankly I'm sad about it because I haven't had the $$$ to buy them.
There is plenty of interest in re-issues of older Gibson basses, they get done because there is demand, the re-issue Non Reverse is good example - The EB is something new, not like anything they've done before, you may not like it, no one says you have to. I give them plenty of credit for having an open mindset and trying something new, which is more than I can say for some of the folks posting here.
As for the re-issues, *if* you really knew the original models they are based on you'd understand, it's obvious you don't -Why should I waste my time trying to educate you?

TB may be the largest bass forum, but when it comes to Gibson basses there plenty of better choices

 

[Showdown]

EBMM, though, has been a pioneer in introducing interesting new basses. The Big Al, Bongo, and Reflex are all unique, innovative, and excellent.

But what is their biggest selling bass? Stingray.

Classic designs are big sellers for every company that makes them. Gibson has introduced many new models over the years, but their classics sell better - just like at Fender.

 

[mournblade]

Just got one of the new silverburst Explorers with the TB pickups. Really liking it!! Not so crazy about the 3 point, non height adjustable bridge, but my hip shot replacement should be here tomorrow or Monday. Pics once I have it installed.

I was somewhat skeptical about the baked maple fretboard, but I have no issue with it. I had an 84 that I never really bonded with, I find the new one much more comfortable to play, and I love the sound the TB pickups give. All my other basses are double P (mix of EMG, old and new DiMarzio), so the TB pickups give a nice variety.

Back on topic, not really crazy about the shape, but if it plays as nice as my explorer, should be a good deal on a USA made bass.

 

[smcd]

Did what I posted go over your head?

Gibson's primary focus has always been guitars - not basses, yes they've produced them for many years, but they're not what the company does as a primary product - Get it?
In terms of production count they are not a major manufacturer, as someone who's interest is Gibson basses they done more models in past two years than you know, frankly I'm sad about it because I haven't had the $$$ to buy them.
There is plenty of interest in re-issues of older Gibson basses, they get done because there is demand, the re-issue Non Reverse is good example - The EB is something new, not like anything they've done before, you may not like it, no one says you have to. I give them plenty of credit for having an open mindset and trying something new, which is more than I can say for some of the folks posting here.
As for the re-issues, *if* you really knew the original models they are based on you'd understand, it's obvious you don't -Why should I waste my time trying to educate you?

TB may be the largest bass forum, but when it comes to Gibson basses there plenty of better choices

Unfortunately, I managed to absorb your words exactly as you intended. What you're saying is utter nonsense. It doesn't matter that Gibson is primarily at guitar manufacturer. They've made basses for over 50 years, and in the bass market they are a major player. They've tried to gain a bigger market share in the past, and would like to do so in the future. Your premise that Gibson doesn't have to pay attention to their bass market is ridiculous. Where did you get this idea?? Who is telling you these things?

Currntly I have a Thunderbird, an EB-3 (a real one), an EB-2D, and 2 Les Paul Signature basses. I've owned several others. I have no need nor desire to be "educated" by you. In any case, you are clearly not capable of doing that.

 

[smcd]

But what is their biggest selling bass? Stingray.

Classic designs are big sellers for every company that makes them. Gibson has introduced many new models over the years, but their classics sell better - just like at Fender.

Doesn't matter what EBMM's biggest seller is. The bass buying public isn't the issue, it's the manufacturer. EBMM makes a real effort at breaking new ground, and stick with a product regardless of what the sales numbers are.

 

[uOpt]

Can they at least pick a similar color for the "ears" on the headplate?

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

 

[TBird1958]

Unfortunately, I managed to absorb your words exactly as you intended. What you're saying is utter nonsense. It doesn't matter that Gibson is primarily at guitar manufacturer. They've made basses for over 50 years, and in the bass market they are a major player. They've tried to gain a bigger market share in the past, and would like to do so in the future. Your premise that Gibson doesn't have to pay attention to their bass market is ridiculous. Where did you get this idea?? Who is telling you these things?

Currntly I have a Thunderbird, an EB-3 (a real one), an EB-2D, and 2 Les Paul Signature basses. I've owned several others. I have no need nor desire to be "educated" by you. In any case, you are clearly not capable of doing that.

Production totals on their recent basses are typically 400 pcs, take a look at the Gibson website and see how many Les Pauls they make vs the number of basses. Gibson makes way more money per piece on guitars, economics. They make no where near the number of basses as other large makers, yes they make them, and have for a long time - they don't make a lot of money at it.
Maybe it's time you went and played your T Bird, no doubt it's something special.

 

[wvbass]

There some real humor in this thread. Complaints about rehashing old designs? Sure, they use essentially the same body shapes they used in the 60s. So does everybody, though, if they've managed to stick around that long. Complaints about QC? I bought a plek'd made in the USA bass for $1200. My $1200 Indonesian bass has better QC? Guess what? It is supposed to be that way, and I will let you figure out why. Gibson is a major bass manufacturer? Really? How many original non reverse 'birds exist? I was surprised when I found out. Gibson has kept a placeholder in the bass market for a long time, but they clearly they don't take bass building too seriously. Gibson makes Les Pauls - that is where the money is at.

 

[jastacey]

I have a Gibson Money Bass, and it is a nice playing bass, it has a slim neck, that is pretty stable, the bridge is NOT one of there past designs, the pick-ups are nice sounding, once you learn how to use them ( they are one of the hottest/strong output ), as a player who owns several Fenders, A G&L, a Stingray, a Gibson that plays well is a nice addition to ones collection, I would be willing to say that this new bass is going to be a sleeper, but the ones who acquire one will be pleasantly rewarded with a bass that is very playable, and with some cool sounding pick-ups, looks like they built the neck with a volute, to deal with the loss of wood in the truss rod area, some folks like it/some don't, at least they are addressing a issue with headstock breakage issues .... granted Gibson only makes 400/500 basses per production run, and some of the bass are so/so, but when you get a bass that play like a dream, who cares what it is ... if it works .... use it

 

[Psychbunny]

I am also one of the US Fender and Gibson owners. I will never understand the hating on gibsons. The "they just keep making the same thing" argument is insane from a Fender fanboy. My Jazz was designed fifty years ago. I obviously like it and that is why I bought it. Ny Flying V is based on a retro guitar design but what about the Telecaster bass? I own both because they are unique instruments with unique tones. If any one thinks this EB is "generic" I would like to buy a bag from the dealer. You cannot get more generic than a P-bass. The P-bass is the most popular because it is a great design but P-basses are a dime a dozen and every manufacturer makes a clone some of which are nicer. I happen to like the looks of the new EB. I don't mind my 3-point bridge but the Babicz is a nice addition that ioffers flexibility and The bent metal Fender bridges are functional but not asthetically pleasing. Your money, your choice but base it on your opinion not simply repeating what other's have said for decades.

 

[Righteous Thunderer]

This has definitely turned into a product market discussion, and distracted from the OP.



Has anyone actually played one yet?

 

[Showdown]

Has anyone actually played one yet?

See post #77.

 

[Righteous Thunderer]

See post #77.

Thanks man.

Edit: Someone making a statement that they played it and where others can go to do so isn't really what I meant, but I suppose I should've been more specific. Anyone actually *share* anything regarding their experiences with it?

 

[thomas-k]

Well, try posts #43 and 46, then...

 

[abngourmet]

I haven't played the new EB, so I'll hold off on commenting on it until I do.

There's been a lot of discussion about innovation, new vs. classic, Gibson is a guitar company first, etc. I have 5 Gibsons - a '77 RD Artist (weighs a ton!), a '73 EB-3 (mud bucker!), a '76 Bicentennial Thunderbird, a '75 Ripper (it's a beast!), and a newer Grabber reissue (which is awesome, BTW). I also have a '73 Fender Jazz, a '76 Precision, a '79 Musicman Stingray, and a '76 Rickenbacker. My newer basses are an EB Family Reserve Stingray, an '06 Alembic Stanley Clarke Signature Standard, a custom '09 Alembic Series II Entwistle Replica, a Parker Fly Bass, '94-'95 Lakland 4-94, an 07 NYC Sadowsky Vintage 4, a Peavey Cirrus and an '04 Bongo. I think (well, I hope at least) this gives me a little perspective on different brands, innovation, workmanship, playability, etc. My thoughts are these.

Any company is going to make whatever it is that will make them a profit. If that is a new design, a reissue, or a new interpretation of an older design, that's what they'll do as long as it's profitable. Gibson reissued the Ripper, the G3 and the Grabber, as well as the RD (Krist Novoselic model) as I'm sure their focus groups/research told them there was a demand for them. I'm sure it's the same way for other companies as well (e.g., 62 reissue Jazz Bass, Musicman Classic series, etc.).

Bottom line is it all comes down to what one likes/doesn't like, and what works/doesn't work for one. We all have brands we're staunch advocates for, and that's great as it shows passion. But as the saying goes, one man's pleasure is another's pain. This particular EB may not be for everyone, but it's out there. It's good to have as many choices today that we have. It wasn't so long ago when that wasn't the case, trust me.

 

[kurosawa]

Fender committed some crimes too, like the Bass V and the Mustang/Musicmaster, but nothing like the Ripper/Grabber/S3 or the RD series, ermagerd. It makes it worse that I want so much for a grand old name like Gibson to hit one out of the park.

 

[hdracer]

Fender committed some crimes too, like the Bass V and the Mustang/Musicmaster, but nothing like the Ripper/Grabber/S3 or the RD series, ermagerd. It makes it worse that I want so much for a grand old name like Gibson to hit one out of the park.

Can you describe what you think hitting one out of the park would be?