Vintage Ampeg AEB-1 Horizontal Electric Bass - USA 1966

Here is a highly significant Ampeg AEB-1 Scroll Bass, serial number 016, representing one of the earliest examples of Everett Hull’s groundbreaking electric bass designs. Introduced at the 1966 NAMM show, the AEB-1 was Ampeg’s first in-house horizontal electric bass and quickly became one of the most distinctive and innovative bass designs of the 1960s.

Built between 1966 and 1968 at Ampeg’s Linden, New Jersey factory, the AEB-1 features the instantly recognisable scroll headstock, rounded body shape, and dual large F-holes. Only around 1,150 units were produced, all handcrafted by a small team of luthiers, making surviving examples increasingly rare today.

One of its most unique innovations is the “mystery” pickup mounted beneath the bridge, originally designed with gut-string players in mind—particularly upright jazz musicians transitioning to electric instruments. In practice, most instruments were instead fitted with LaBella flatwound or black tapewound strings, as gut strings never became widely adopted in this format. The tailpiece design also required longer string length to achieve the correct break angle and tension, helping replicate an upright-style playing feel.

This example is exceptionally rare due to its serial number 016, making it one of the earliest known surviving AEB-1 instruments. It is presented in outstanding condition for its age, appearing largely original throughout. The Cherry Burst finish remains exceptionally clean, with very few visible marks or signs of wear. Careful inspection under black light reveals no evidence of overspray, cracks, or structural repairs.

Tonally, the AEB-1 delivers a deep, upright-inspired voice with a warm, woody low end and smooth, organic midrange character. It responds with a very distinct dynamic feel compared to more conventional electric bass designs of its era, offering a unique sonic personality that remains highly sought after by collectors and players alike.

Specifications: 

Year: 1960
Country: Germany
Model: Hofner Verithin Bass
Finish: Cherry red gloss
Body: Semi-hollow laminated spruce top with flamed maple veneer back and sides
Neck: 3-piece maple/beech/maple neck with inset neck joint
Fingerboard: Rosewood with tortoiseshell and pearl-style block inlays
Pickups: Original Hofner pickups
Controls: 4 rotary controls
Bridge: Ebony replacement bridge
Tuners: Original-style open gear tuners
Case: Period-correct hard shell case