Ampeg Baby Bass (BB-4)
Musical instrument, electric upright bass • Ampeg Company (designed based on Zorko original patent)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Industrial Design
Medium & Technique
Molded Thermoplastic (Uvex) or early fiberglass body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, with electronic magnetic/piezo pickups
Creation Period
c. 1962–1970
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 60 inches (height) by 12 inches (width); vertical/sculptural format
Subject Description
An iconic electric upright bass featuring a slim, violin-waisted body profile. Notably designed for portability and amplification in jazz and Latin music settings.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good (Museum standard); the finish appears lustrous and original, though common for this model to have slight 'gassing' or body warping over decades.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 – $5,000 USD (market value for vintage specimens)
Auction Estimate
$2,500 – $4,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely institutional provenance (Museum of Musical Instruments collection); originally sold as professional performance gear in New York/New Jersey area.
Art Historical Significance
Revolutionary in the evolution of Afro-Cuban and Salsa music; its unique percussive 'thump' became the signature sound of the Fania Records era.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'C-bout' shape, original scroll-style headstock, and the diaphragm-based pickup system housed under the bridge.
Condition Issues
Potential for body deformation (common in Zorko/Ampeg plastics), possible tarnishing of the metal bridge assembly and minor scuffing on the endpin.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent plastic warping; avoid high UV exposure to prevent finish fading.