Upright Electric Bass Explained: Features, Types and Tips

The instrument occupies a specific niche: the player who wants the feel and posture of a double bass but with electric amplification, portability and the ability to perform in venues where an acoustic bass would be impractical or overwhelming. Understanding what distinguishes these instruments from both the acoustic double bass and the electric bass guitar helps you decide whether one belongs in your arsenal.

What Is an Upright Electric Bass?

An upright electric bass — often abbreviated to EUB — is a bass instrument played in the vertical, standing position of a double bass, but with a solid or semi-hollow body that relies on electronics rather than acoustic resonance for its sound. Unlike an acoustic double bass, it produces little natural sound without amplification; like a double bass, it has a long scale length (typically around 41–42 inches for a 3/4 size instrument), is most commonly fretless, and can be played both pizzicato (plucking) and arco (with a bow).

The key difference from a standard electric bass guitar is physical orientation and technique. The EUB is played vertically, with the player standing or using a stool; the right-hand technique involves the upright bass approach to pizzicato and potentially the use of a bow; the left-hand technique requires the larger stretches inherent to the double bass scale length and fretless intonation.

Construction and Electronics

Most instruments of this type use piezo transducers embedded in the bridge or body to capture the string vibration. Some models use magnetic pickups — similar to those in electric bass guitars — either alone or combined with a piezo for blended sound options. An endpin or spike at the bottom supports the instrument on the floor; a strap can be attached for playing without a stand, though standing support is more common. The body is often minimal — a thin frame or board shape — to reduce weight and improve portability compared to an acoustic instrument, which can weigh considerably more.

Who It Suits

Double bass players who need an instrument that travels more easily or works better in amplified live contexts are the primary market. Jazz musicians who perform in small venues where feedback from a miked acoustic bass is a problem often find the EUB a practical solution. Players transitioning from electric bass guitar who want to develop upright technique — without committing to the cost and maintenance of a full acoustic instrument — also use it as a stepping stone. For guidance on choosing between the main models, see the complete buyer's guide.

Frequently Asked Questions