1966 Ampeg ASB-1 Devil Bass Serial #531 w/Case

1966 Ampeg ASB-1 Devil Bass, Serial #531

Few vintage basses are as visually striking or historically distinctive as the Ampeg ASB-1 Devil Bass. Produced in very limited numbers during the late 1960s, the ASB-1 combines bold mid century design with the unusual engineering that made Ampeg instruments unlike anything else on the market.

This example carries serial number 531, for years Ampeg historian and instrument builder Bruce Johnson identified #531 as the lowest serial number he had documented on a Devil Bass. That makes it one of the earliest known production examples. While Ampeg used the same serial sequence across several bass models, #531 remains an especially noteworthy number for collectors and historians of the brand. 

The ASB-1 features its unmistakable double horn body shape, carved scroll headstock, fretted rosewood fingerboard, and Ampeg’s unusual bridge mounted transducer pickup. Unlike a traditional magnetic bass pickup, this pressure sensitive design captures vibration through the bridge and produces a warm, woody tone with an almost upright bass character.

The dramatic Fireburst finish enhances the sculpted body shape and highlights the instrument’s unmistakable 1960s styling. Every angle reflects Ampeg’s willingness to experiment with form, function, and sound during one of the company’s most creative periods.

Features

Year: 1966
Manufacturer: Ampeg
Model: ASB-1 Devil Bass
Serial Number: 531
Configuration: Fretted electric bass
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Pickup: Original style bridge mounted Ampeg transducer
Finish: Fireburst
Controls: Passive volume and tone
Headstock: Carved Ampeg scroll design

A Rare Piece of Ampeg History

Production estimates for the ASB-1 are extremely low, with many specialists believing that fewer than 75 fretted Devil Basses were produced. Surviving examples rarely come to market, especially examples with early serial numbers.

The ASB-1 is more than a collectible display piece. Its unique pickup system gives it a sound that is dry, woody, focused, and unlike a conventional Fender style bass. It is well suited for players who appreciate vintage character, experimental design, and instruments with a strong identity.

Serial #531 offers collectors an opportunity to own one of the earliest documented examples of one of Ampeg’s most recognizable and unconventional instruments.

**The bass body has been professionally refinished in its original Fireburst colors. The work preserves the distinctive look of the ASB-1 while presenting the instrument cleanly and attractively.

Consignment Sale Item Notice:

• This is a unique item available through our consignment sale.
• All Sales Final: No returns or exchanges accepted.
• No Discount Codes: Excluded from discount code usage. Purchases made with a discount code will be canceled and refunded.

Thank you for your understanding as you explore this special piece from our curated collection.