Imagine a world where you can get the big, booming sound of an upright bass without all the hassle. That’s the magic of the electric upright bass, often called the EUB! Have you ever seen a musician playing one and wondered how they get that incredible sound in such a portable package?
For many bass players, the upright bass is a dream instrument. It has a rich, warm tone that’s perfect for jazz, folk, and classical music. But, upright basses are big, heavy, and can be tricky to transport to gigs or rehearsals. Plus, amplifying them can be a challenge. This is where the electric upright bass shines, offering a convenient and powerful alternative. However, with so many different models and features out there, picking the right EUB can feel overwhelming. You want something that sounds great, feels good to play, and fits your budget.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes an electric upright bass special. We’ll explore the different types available, what to look for when buying one, and how to get the most out of your instrument. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which electric upright bass is the perfect fit for your musical journey.
Our Top 5 Electric Upright Bass Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Upright Bass Detailed Reviews
1. Stagg EDB-3/4 BK Electric 3/4 Size Double Bass with Gig Bag Included – Black
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to make some noise? The Stagg EDB-3/4 BK Electric Double Bass is a fantastic choice for any musician. It’s a 3/4 size electric bass that comes in a sleek black finish and even includes a gig bag. This bass is built with solid maple, which gives it a great sound. Plus, it has special electronics designed just for double bass, so you’ll get awesome amplified tones.
What We Like:
- Solid maple construction means it’s built to last and sounds good.
- The state-of-the-art electronics are made specifically for double bass, giving you great amplified sound.
- It’s a 3/4 size, making it a good fit for many players, especially younger or smaller musicians.
- A gig bag is included, so you can easily carry your bass to practice or gigs.
- The black finish looks really cool and professional.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the electronics are great, some advanced players might want more customization options.
- For beginners, the initial setup might require a little guidance.
This Stagg electric double bass offers a lot of value for its price. It’s a solid instrument that lets you explore the world of amplified bass playing.
2. Stagg
Rating: 9.3/10
The Stagg 4-String Electric Upright Bass in Violin Burst (EDB-3/4 VBR US) brings the classic sound of an upright bass into a modern, portable package. This 3/4 size electric upright bass is designed for players who want the feel and sound of an upright without the bulk. Its solid maple construction and ebonized hardwood bridge contribute to its good tone. This bass is a versatile option for practice, performance, and recording.
What We Like:
- Solid maple top and neck provide a good foundation for sound.
- P-bass style diecast nickel machine heads offer reliable tuning.
- Built-in volume and bass controls allow easy sound adjustment.
- A low battery indicator keeps you informed about power levels.
- The 3.5mm input for music players lets you practice along with songs.
- Headphone output is perfect for quiet practice sessions.
- A 6.35mm jack output connects easily to amps or recording gear.
- It comes with a gig bag, making it easy to transport.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic nut might not offer the same resonance as bone or other materials.
- As an electric instrument, it requires amplification to be heard properly.
This Stagg electric upright bass offers a great balance of features and playability for its price point. It’s a solid choice for bassists looking to explore the unique voice of the upright.
3. Ibanez Bass Workshop UB805 5-string Electric Upright Bass – Mahogany Oil Burst
Rating: 9.3/10
The Ibanez Bass Workshop UB805 is a cool 5-string electric upright bass. It has a unique look with its Mahogany Oil Burst finish. This bass lets you play like an upright but with the convenience of an electric instrument. It’s great for practice or performing on stage.
What We Like:
- The solidbody design makes it easy to handle and transport.
- It features a beautiful Mahogany Oil Burst finish that stands out.
- The maple wing body provides a warm and resonant tone.
- Active piezo electronics give you great sound control.
- The Jatoba fingerboard feels smooth under your fingers.
- The Maple/Walnut neck is strong and comfortable to play.
What Could Be Improved:
- As an electric upright, it doesn’t have the exact same feel as a traditional acoustic upright.
- The price might be a bit high for beginners.
The Ibanez UB805 is a fantastic option for bassists wanting the upright sound in an electric package. It delivers a great playing experience and a beautiful aesthetic.
4. Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 – Mahogany Oil Burst
Rating: 9.3/10
The Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 in Mahogany Oil Burst is a cool electric bass that looks and feels like an upright bass. It’s a 4-string fretless model. This bass has a beautiful, natural wood finish that really stands out. It’s designed for bassists who want a unique sound and feel.
What We Like:
- The fretless design lets you create smooth, vocal-like bass lines.
- It has a 5-piece Maple/Walnut neck that feels strong and plays well.
- The Jatoba fingerboard is tough and gives a bright tone.
- The Maple body adds to its clear and punchy sound.
- It comes with a stand, making it easy to display and keep safe.
- The Mahogany Oil Burst finish looks really classy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being fretless, it takes practice to get used to playing accurately.
- The unique design might not be for everyone’s musical style.
This bass offers a special playing experience for those seeking a different sound. It’s a great instrument for exploring new musical territories.
5. QMG Upright Bass Fingering Chart with Color-Coded Notes
Rating: 9.2/10
Learning the upright bass can feel like a challenge, but the QMG Upright Bass Fingering Chart is here to make it easier. This chart is designed for everyone, from beginners just starting out to experienced players who want a handy reference. It helps you learn where to put your fingers on the fretboard, which is a big step in mastering the instrument.
What We Like:
- Color-Coded Notes: The chart uses bright colors for each note. This makes it super simple for beginners to see and remember where their fingers should go. Visual learners will especially love this feature.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: It’s laminated, meaning it can handle lots of use without getting damaged. You can keep referring to it for years to come.
- Covers Many Positions: This chart shows you finger placements up to the 7th position. It’s a fantastic tool for learning new positions or quickly reviewing what you already know.
- Convenient Size: At 11 inches by 17 inches, it’s large enough to see clearly but not too big to handle.
- Made in the USA: QMG makes these charts in the USA, ensuring you get a high-quality product that supports your bass-playing journey.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited to 7th Position: While it covers a good range, players working on positions beyond the 7th might need an additional resource.
This QMG fingering chart is a smart investment for any upright bass player. It makes learning fun and accessible.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Guide to Electric Upright Basses
So, you’re looking to get an electric upright bass (EUB)? That’s awesome! EUBs are super cool instruments that give you the big, booming sound of an upright bass but with the convenience of an electric guitar. This guide will help you find the perfect one for you.
What to Look For: Key Features of an Electric Upright Bass
When you’re shopping for an EUB, keep these important things in mind:
- Sound Quality: This is the most important thing! Does it sound like a real upright bass? Listen to how clear and full the notes are.
- Playability: How does it feel to play? The neck should be comfortable in your hands. The strings shouldn’t be too hard to press down.
- Electronics: Most EUBs have pickups that turn the string vibrations into sound. Look for good quality pickups that give you a nice, natural tone. Some EUBs have built-in preamps that let you adjust your sound.
- Durability: You want an instrument that will last. Check how well it’s put together. It should feel sturdy.
- Portability: EUBs are generally easier to carry than regular upright basses. Some have detachable necks, making them even more portable.
Materials Matter: What Your EUB is Made Of
The materials used in an EUB can really affect its sound and how it feels.
- Body: Many EUBs have bodies made from solid wood, like maple or mahogany. These woods give a warm and rich sound. Some have hollow or semi-hollow bodies for a more acoustic-like tone.
- Neck: The neck is usually made of maple. It needs to be strong to handle the tension of the strings.
- Fingerboard: This is the part of the neck where you press down the strings. It’s often made of ebony or rosewood. These woods are smooth and durable.
- Strings: EUBs use special strings that are similar to upright bass strings. They can be made of different materials, affecting the tone.
Quality Check: What Makes an EUB Great (or Not So Great)
Several things can make an EUB sound amazing or just okay.
- Good Quality Pickups: These are key for a great sound. Piezo pickups are common and capture the vibrations well. Some EUBs have magnetic pickups, which give a tone more like an electric bass guitar.
- Solid Construction: A well-built EUB will sound better and last longer. Look for smooth finishes and tight joints.
- Comfortable Neck Profile: A neck that’s too thick or too thin can make playing difficult. Try to find one that fits your hand size.
- Balanced Weight: An EUB that’s too heavy can be tiring to play. A balanced weight makes it easier to hold and play for longer periods.
- Cheap Hardware: Sometimes, the tuning machines or bridges can be made of lower-quality materials. This can affect tuning stability and overall sound.
User Experience and Use Cases: Who Uses EUBs and Why?
Electric upright basses are used by all sorts of musicians!
- Convenience: They are much easier to transport than acoustic upright basses. This makes them perfect for gigging musicians who travel a lot.
- Versatility: EUBs can be used in many different music styles, from jazz and blues to rock, pop, and folk. You can plug them into amps, effects pedals, and recording equipment.
- Practice: They are great for practicing. You can plug in headphones and play without disturbing anyone.
- Beginners: For those who love the sound of an upright bass but find them too big or expensive, an EUB can be a fantastic starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Electric Upright Basses
Q: What is an electric upright bass?
A: An electric upright bass (EUB) is an instrument that looks and plays like a traditional upright bass but uses electronic pickups to produce sound, similar to an electric guitar.
Q: Are electric upright basses hard to play?
A: They can take some getting used to, especially if you’re new to upright bass playing. The fingerboard is wider than a guitar, and you use different techniques. However, many find them easier to transport and set up than acoustic uprights.
Q: What kind of sound do electric upright basses make?
A: They aim to replicate the deep, resonant sound of an acoustic upright bass. The exact tone can vary depending on the pickups and electronics used.
Q: Can I use my electric upright bass for any type of music?
A: Yes! EUBs are very versatile and can be used in jazz, blues, rock, pop, folk, classical, and many other genres.
Q: Do electric upright basses need an amplifier?
A: Yes, they do. Like electric guitars, EUBs need to be plugged into an amplifier to be heard properly.
Q: Are electric upright basses good for beginners?
A: They can be a good option for beginners who are drawn to the sound of an upright bass. They are more portable and often more affordable than acoustic upright basses.
Q: What’s the difference between an electric upright bass and an electric bass guitar?
A: While both are electric instruments, the EUB has the body shape and playing position of an upright bass, and its sound is designed to mimic an acoustic upright. An electric bass guitar has a different shape and sound, and it’s played horizontally.
Q: How do I tune an electric upright bass?
A: They are typically tuned the same as an acoustic upright bass: E, A, D, G (from lowest to highest string).
Q: Can I play an electric upright bass without an amp?
A: You can technically plug headphones into some EUBs or practice amps for quiet practice, but to be heard in a musical setting, you will need an amplifier or sound system.
Q: What are some popular brands of electric upright basses?
A: Some well-known brands include NS Design, Palatino, Dean, and Yamaha, among others.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!