Vintage Ampeg AEB-1 Horizontal Electric Bass - USA 1966

The AEB-1, Ampeg's first horizontal electric bass of their own design, is the most iconic of the Scroll Basses. It features a distinctive scroll headstock and a rounded body with two large F-holes. Introduced to the public at the NAMM show in July 1966, production continued until mid-1968, with approximately 1150 units handcrafted by a small team of luthiers at Ampeg's Linden, NJ factory.

The AEB-1 was notable for its unique look and several innovative technical features. One of these was the "mystery" pickup, situated beneath the bridge, designed to accommodate gut strings, which were preferred by upright jazz players. Despite this, most of these basses were shipped with LaBella flatwound or black tapewound strings, as gut strings did not become popular. The tailpiece design required longer strings to achieve the necessary string angle and stretch, providing a playing experience similar to that of an upright bass.

Mint condition AEB-1s are now rare, as the lacquer finish typically degraded over time, leading many to be repainted. Serial numbers, located on the underside of the tailpiece, indicate that around 750 AEB-1s were produced. Although pinpointing the exact end of production is difficult, some hybrid models and standard versions continued to be built into early 1968, with unsold units remaining in inventory until 1970.

This particular AEB-1 is super special as it's serial number is 016, making it the earliest one we can find in existence. The bass is in incredible shape for its age, and looks to be in original condition. There are very few marks or dents at all, and after inspection with a black light, the Cherry Burst finish is unblemished, with no cracks or repairs evident.

This is a distinctly rare and special instrument, in impeccable condition for its age. A real collectors piece that sounds unreal and plays incredibly well.

Comes in its original hardshell case in great condition.