Ibanez EHB1506MS 6-String Multi-Scale Headless Bass Guitar, (Used)

The Ibanez EHB1506MS is a premium-specification six-string, multi-scale headless electric bass designed for musicians who demand exceptional versatility, ergonomic comfort and precise low-frequency performance. Part of the innovative Ibanez Bass Workshop range, this modern instrument combines a lightweight chambered African mahogany body, striking poplar burl top, nine-piece panga panga/walnut neck and advanced electronics in a distinctive headless design.

Its 35"–32.5" multi-scale fingerboard gives the low B string additional length for improved tension and definition, while the shorter scale on the high C string supports comfortable fingering and expressive melodic playing. The result is an instrument particularly well suited to technical bassists, progressive musicians, fusion players and performers looking to explore the full potential of a six-string bass.

Equipped with Nordstrand Custom Big Split pickups, a flexible Vari-Mid 3-band EQ and Ibanez MR5HS individual bridge saddles, the EHB1506MS delivers exceptional tonal control for everything from deep, powerful bass lines to articulate chords, intricate tapping and melodic solo work.

Offered in Good Condition, this pre-owned Ibanez provides an attractive opportunity to own a sophisticated six-string headless bass at a more accessible price than buying new.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Condition Overview

Good Condition – Noticeable cosmetic wear but fully functional.

This Ibanez EHB1506MS is offered in Good Condition, reflecting previous ownership and use.

The Good Condition grading indicates cosmetic signs of wear while the instrument remains fully operational. For players seeking a high-performance six-string bass, this represents an appealing opportunity to access advanced Ibanez Bass Workshop specifications without paying the full price of a new instrument.

Condition Notes

The bass has been graded Good Condition, indicating cosmetic wear consistent with previous use.

Specific scratches, dents, finish marks or areas of hardware wear have not been individually documented. No additional defects or modifications are being assumed.

What's Included

- Ibanez EHB1506MS 6-String Multi-Scale Headless Bass Guitar

Additional accessories have not been confirmed for this individual pre-owned instrument.

Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment

At Fair Deal Music, our pre-owned instruments are assessed with particular attention to functionality, general condition and comfortable playability.

Our standard bass inspection process covers:

• Neck and bridge pickup operation

• Master volume and pickup balance controls

• Bass, middle and treble EQ operation

• Variable mid-frequency adjustment

• Active/passive EQ bypass functionality

• Output jack operation

• Fret wear and condition

• Headless tuning hardware

• Individual bridge saddle operation

• Neck relief and alignment

• General playability across all six strings

The EHB1506MS's multi-scale construction and sophisticated electronic configuration make a thorough assessment particularly important.

Service & Setup

All pre-owned guitars and basses at Fair Deal Music are checked and set up before leaving the shop.

Our preparation process includes assessing string action, neck relief, fret condition, tuning stability, electronic operation, bridge adjustment, intonation and general hardware condition.

For a six-string multi-scale instrument, careful setup is particularly valuable. The relationship between individual string lengths, bridge saddle positions and string tension plays an important role in achieving consistent performance.

Particular attention is given to the headless tuning system, individual bridge adjustment and accurate intonation across the extended range.

Our aim is to provide an instrument that feels comfortable, responds consistently and allows players to make the most of its advanced design.

A bass guitar's setup can change slightly due to variations in humidity, temperature and the surrounding environment, particularly during transportation or when settling into a new home.

Why Choose The Ibanez EHB1506MS?

Ergonomic Headless Design

One of the EHB1506MS's defining features is its innovative headless construction.

By removing the traditional headstock and incorporating tuning hardware into the bridge assembly, Ibanez has created a bass that feels more compact and balanced than many conventional extended-range instruments.

This can be particularly beneficial for musicians performing long sets or spending extended periods practising and recording.

The reduced overall length also makes the instrument easier to handle in confined rehearsal spaces and smaller performance environments.

Combined with its chambered body construction, the headless format makes the EHB1506MS an appealing choice for players who want to minimise unnecessary weight and improve playing comfort.

Multi-Scale Construction For Enhanced String Response

The EHB1506MS features a multi-scale fingerboard measuring 35 inches on the low B string and 32.5 inches on the high C string.

Unlike a conventional bass where every string shares the same scale length, this design uses progressively changing string lengths.

The longer bass-side scale helps maintain string tension and note definition, particularly on the low B string.

The shorter treble-side scale provides a different feel for melodic playing, chord work and higher-register techniques.

The angled fret arrangement follows the changing scale lengths, creating a visually distinctive playing surface that can feel surprisingly natural once players become accustomed to it.

For bassists exploring extended-range techniques, multi-scale construction offers meaningful practical advantages.

Chambered African Mahogany Body

The EHB1506MS features a selected lightweight African mahogany body with internal chambering.

This construction helps reduce overall weight while maintaining the resonance and structural characteristics required for a six-string bass.

The chambered design is especially valuable on an extended-range instrument, where additional strings, hardware and neck width can otherwise increase playing fatigue.

Ibanez also incorporates carefully considered body contours to improve comfort when playing seated or standing.

For musicians who regularly perform long rehearsals or live sets, this ergonomic approach can make a significant difference.

Striking Poplar Burl Top

The poplar burl top gives the EHB1506MS a distinctive appearance, with naturally varied figuring that makes each instrument visually individual.

Burl wood is known for its irregular, intricate grain patterns, creating an organic appearance that complements the EHB's contemporary body design.

This pairing of natural wood figuring and modern ergonomic construction gives the bass a particularly striking visual identity.

Nine-Piece Panga Panga/Walnut Neck

The EHB1506MS uses a nine-piece neck constructed from alternating panga panga and walnut laminates.

Graphite reinforcement rods provide additional structural support, helping the neck maintain stability.

This is particularly valuable on a six-string bass, where the extended fingerboard width and string tension place considerable demands on the neck.

The laminated construction also creates a distinctive appearance, complementing the instrument's premium specification.

Panga Panga Fingerboard With Stainless Steel Frets

The bound panga panga fingerboard features 24 medium stainless steel frets and offset abalone dot inlays.

Stainless steel frets are valued for their wear resistance and durability, making them particularly attractive for musicians who practise and perform regularly.

The 24-fret layout provides two full octaves per string, supporting advanced melodic playing, tapping techniques and extended-range solo work.

Luminescent side dots provide additional visual assistance in darker performance environments.

Nordstrand Custom Big Split Pickups

The EHB1506MS is equipped with two Nordstrand Custom Big Split pickups.

These pickups use a hum-cancelling split-coil design, combining the clarity and articulation associated with single-coil-style pickups with reduced unwanted electrical noise.

The result is a versatile sound suitable for a wide range of musical applications.

The neck pickup offers fullness and warmth, while the bridge pickup provides additional definition and midrange presence.

Blending the two allows players to explore different tonal balances, from rounded supportive bass sounds to more articulate, cutting responses.

For six-string players, this clarity is particularly useful when moving between deep bass notes and higher-register chord voicings.

Vari-Mid 3-Band EQ

The Ibanez Vari-Mid 3-band EQ provides extensive control over the instrument's tonal response.

Separate bass, middle and treble adjustments allow players to shape their sound to suit different musical situations.

The variable mid-frequency control is especially useful, allowing the player to select the specific midrange area being boosted or reduced.

This provides greater precision than a fixed-frequency midrange control.

For example, players can increase midrange presence to help intricate bass lines cut through a dense band mix or reduce selected frequencies for a smoother, more spacious response.

Active/Passive EQ Bypass

The EHB1506MS also features an EQ bypass switch.

With the active EQ engaged, players can use the full Vari-Mid 3-band system.

When the EQ is bypassed, the instrument operates through its passive pickup circuit, with the treble control functioning as a passive tone control.

This allows players to move between detailed active EQ shaping and a more straightforward passive sound.

The flexibility is particularly useful in recording environments, where different musical arrangements may benefit from different tonal approaches.

Ibanez MR5HS Bridge

The MR5HS bridge uses individually adjustable saddle units, providing precise control over string positioning and intonation.

The design is particularly suitable for the EHB1506MS's multi-scale construction, allowing each string to be positioned according to its individual scale length.

With 17mm string spacing, the bridge offers a balance between comfortable fingerstyle technique and the additional space required for six-string playing.

The headless tuning arrangement also helps create the bass's compact overall profile.

Designed For Modern Bass Techniques

The EHB1506MS is particularly appealing to musicians who use advanced playing techniques.

Its six-string range allows access to both deep bass fundamentals and higher-register melodic passages.

This makes it well suited to:

• Extended-range fingerstyle playing

• Two-handed tapping

• Chordal bass arrangements

• Progressive metal techniques

• Jazz fusion improvisation

• Solo bass performance

• Technical slap bass

• Modern session recording

The ergonomic body and performance-focused hardware help support these demanding applications.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Ibanez EHB1506MS vs EHB1006MS

Both instruments share the headless, multi-scale EHB design philosophy.

The EHB1506MS distinguishes itself through its selected lightweight African mahogany body, poplar burl top, panga panga/walnut neck and Nordstrand pickups.

It is particularly appealing to players who want premium EHB appointments and sophisticated tonal control.

Ibanez EHB1506MS vs SRMS806

The SRMS806 offers multi-scale construction in a more conventional bass format with a traditional headstock.

The EHB1506MS prioritises ergonomic balance, reduced overall length and a compact playing experience.

Choose the EHB1506MS if headless construction and portability are important.

Choose the SRMS806 if you prefer a more traditional instrument layout.

Ibanez EHB1506MS vs BTB806MS

The BTB806MS offers another approach to extended-range multi-scale performance, with a larger body and different playing geometry.

The EHB1506MS is particularly attractive for musicians who prefer a compact, headless design and lightweight construction.

Both instruments provide the extended range needed for demanding modern bass applications.

Multi-Scale vs Conventional Six-String Bass

A conventional six-string bass uses the same scale length for every string.

The EHB1506MS varies the scale length across the fingerboard, giving the lower strings additional length while retaining a shorter scale on the higher strings.

This can improve the balance between low-string definition and high-register playability.

Players accustomed to traditional instruments may need a short adjustment period, but the multi-scale format offers considerable benefits for extended-range playing.

Who Is It For?

Beginner Players

Although beginners can learn on a six-string bass, the EHB1506MS is best suited to players who already have some understanding of electric bass technique.

Its extended range, active electronics and multi-scale construction offer considerable flexibility but introduce additional considerations for newer musicians.

Intermediate Players

Intermediate bassists looking to expand beyond four- or five-string instruments will appreciate the EHB1506MS's extended range and comfortable ergonomic design.

It offers an excellent platform for developing chordal techniques, advanced fingerstyle playing, tapping and more sophisticated musical arrangements.

Professional Players

The EHB1506MS is particularly well suited to professional musicians who require precision, tonal versatility and extended-range performance.

Its Nordstrand pickups, Vari-Mid EQ and ergonomic construction make it a strong choice for live performance, studio sessions and technically demanding music.

Suitable Genres & Uses

• Progressive Metal

• Progressive Rock

• Jazz Fusion

• Contemporary Jazz

• Funk

• Technical Bass

• Instrumental Music

• Gospel

• Modern Pop

• Experimental Music

• Session Recording

• Live Performance

• Solo Bass

• Chordal Bass Playing

• Advanced Bass Techniques

Why Choose A Six-String Multi-Scale Bass?

A six-string bass expands the traditional range of the electric bass by adding an additional low string and a higher melodic string.

In standard six-string tuning, the instrument is tuned B-E-A-D-G-C, offering access to deep low-frequency notes and extended upper-register possibilities.

This makes six-string basses particularly useful for progressive music, jazz fusion, technical playing and solo arrangements.

Multi-scale construction takes this concept further by using different string lengths across the fingerboard.

The longer low-string scale helps improve tension and definition, while the shorter high-string scale offers a more manageable feel for melodic playing.

For musicians who need both powerful bass fundamentals and articulate high-register performance, this arrangement provides an appealing balance.

Looking for advice on choosing the right extended-range bass guitar? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Ibanez Bass Workshop: Design & Development

The Ibanez Bass Workshop range was developed to explore alternative approaches to electric bass design.

Rather than concentrating exclusively on traditional instrument shapes, the Bass Workshop series incorporates innovative construction, electronics and ergonomic features intended to address the needs of modern bassists.

The EHB range represents one of Ibanez's most distinctive developments within this philosophy.

Its headless construction, chambered bodies and carefully considered balance reflect the growing demand for lightweight, comfortable instruments capable of supporting technically demanding performance.

The EHB1506MS combines these ideas with a six-string multi-scale configuration, premium wood selection and versatile Nordstrand electronics.

The result is an instrument designed for players who want to push beyond the limitations of conventional electric bass layouts while maintaining comfort and practical functionality.

Technical Specifications

Specifications are based on the Ibanez EHB1506MS manufacturer's model specification. 

The Ibanez EHB1506MS uses a 9V battery to power its onboard Vari-Mid active EQ system.

The EQ bypass switch allows the player to bypass the active equaliser and use a passive tone control, providing additional flexibility when shaping the instrument's sound.

A standard 1/4" instrument cable is required to connect the bass to a suitable bass amplifier, pedalboard, DI box or audio interface.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Ibanez EHB1506MS is an outstanding choice for serious bassists looking for exceptional versatility, extended range and modern ergonomic design.

Its six-string multi-scale construction provides impressive low-end definition and high-register accessibility, while the lightweight chambered body and headless hardware make it particularly comfortable for longer playing sessions.

The Nordstrand Custom Big Split pickups and Vari-Mid 3-band EQ deliver extensive tonal flexibility, making the instrument equally suitable for progressive metal, jazz fusion, technical bass playing and professional recording applications.

Offered in Good Condition, this pre-owned example represents excellent value for musicians seeking a sophisticated, premium-specification Ibanez Bass Workshop instrument without paying the price of a new model.

For intermediate and professional players looking to explore the full potential of a six-string bass, the EHB1506MS is a particularly compelling choice.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide delivery

• Flexible finance options available (subject to status)

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the advantage of a multi-scale bass?

A multi-scale bass uses different string lengths across the fingerboard. Longer bass-side strings can provide improved tension and low-frequency definition, while shorter treble-side strings offer a comfortable response for melodic playing.

Is the Ibanez EHB1506MS suitable for progressive metal?

Yes. Its extended six-string range, multi-scale construction and Nordstrand pickups make it particularly suitable for progressive metal, technical rock and modern bass techniques.

Is a headless bass more comfortable than a conventional bass?

Headless construction reduces the overall length of the instrument and removes weight from the headstock. Combined with the EHB1506MS's chambered body, this can provide a comfortable and well-balanced playing experience.

Is the EHB1506MS difficult to play?

The multi-scale fret arrangement may require a short adjustment period, particularly for musicians accustomed to conventional basses. However, the angled frets are designed to complement the changing string lengths, and many players find the layout comfortable once familiar with it.

Can the Ibanez EHB1506MS be used for jazz and fusion?

Absolutely. Its extended range, articulate pickups and flexible EQ make it particularly useful for jazz fusion, contemporary jazz, chordal playing and melodic bass arrangements.

What is the benefit of Nordstrand Custom Big Split pickups?

The Nordstrand Custom Big Split pickups use a hum-cancelling split-coil construction designed to provide a strong, balanced response with clear note definition. This is particularly useful when playing complex bass lines and extended-range arrangements.

Can the EHB1506MS be played with passive electronics?

Yes. The instrument features an EQ bypass switch that bypasses the active equaliser, with the treble control acting as a passive tone control.

Is the Ibanez EHB1506MS suitable for slap bass?

Yes. Its responsive pickups, adjustable EQ and 17mm string spacing make it suitable for slap and pop techniques. Players accustomed to wider string spacing may need time to adapt.

Does the six-string configuration make the bass more versatile?

Yes. The additional low B and high C strings extend the instrument's range, allowing players to perform deep bass lines, higher-register melodies, chords and more complex arrangements without changing instruments.

Can I use the EHB1506MS for recording?

Yes. Its versatile electronics and extended range make it particularly useful for studio recording. The onboard EQ allows players to shape their sound before it reaches an amplifier, DI box or recording interface.

Is the EHB1506MS suitable for alternate tunings?

Yes, although changes to tuning or string gauge may require adjustments to the setup and intonation. Its multi-scale construction is particularly useful for maintaining low-string definition.

How should I maintain a headless multi-scale bass?

Regular string changes, cleaning and periodic checks of the neck relief, individual bridge saddles, tuning hardware and intonation will help maintain comfortable playability. Use strings that are compatible with the instrument's headless hardware and scale lengths.