Epiphone Newport EBS

The Epiphone Newport electric bass was made in the 1960's and is essentially Epiphone's version of the Gibson EB0. The bass comes in a few different types, but the one this is a review for is the original and most often seen - the Newport EBS. I don't know where these basses were made, but they have a single humbucker just like it's Gibson counterpart, and is made out of mahogany for the most part with a rosewood fingerboard. The bass has 21 frets and is a standard four string bass guitar.

UTILIZATION

It's not hard at all to use or play the Epiphone Newport, as it's got a great feel and only a minimal amount of controls. The single pick up has just volume and tone knobs, which is the bare minimum you'll find on any bass. It's also really easy to play as the neck isn't the thick. I've found it easy to navigate and play up and down the neck as I'm really a fan of the playability here. Getting a good sound is easy, as it's only got the single pick up so there's not much room for changing the tone anyway.

SOUNDS

The sound of the Epiphone Newport is punchy and round and is great for all kinds of music. I've only used it in the studio as I don't own it. The last studio I worked at before the one I'm currently at had this as an instrument for any client to use, and I've used it on both sides of the glass. It's definitely got a unique sound, but when used in the right situation it can really shine. I haven't used it's Gibson counterpart as much as I have this one, but it's definitely a better sounding instrument, although that's not a knock on the Newport at all...

OVERALL OPINION

The Epiphone Newport EBS is an overall awesome sounding, playing, and looking bass. It wouldn't be the best choice for an overall bass guitar since it's not the most versatile or flexible, but in a studio it's great to have around since it gives you a different sound than most basses will. If you want to pick one up it shouldn't cost you too much, so definitely look into it if you're at all interested!