Superior tone from the exotic hardwoods, premium hardware, and active Bartolini pickups for left- and right-handed players
Bass enthusiasts have long anticipated the revival of Tobias basses, and now, the original boutique bass officially returns. Tobias has unveiled three classic models—the Classic, Killer B, and Growler—in four- and five-string configurations, thoughtfully designed for both right- and left-handed musicians. This revived collection showcases the perfect harmony of aesthetics, ergonomics, and tonal variety.
The enthusiasm at the Gibson mothership is palpable. Aljon Go, the Tobias, Epiphone, and Kramer Product Development Manager says, “I’m thrilled to release Tobias basses, emphasizing the use of exotic woods, ergonomics, and authenticity to the original Tobias basses. This revival is a dream come true, blending modern craftsmanship with the timeless essence of Tobias.”
Featuring premium and visually striking tonewoods—including quilted maple, royal paulownia, purpleheart, sapele, walnut, ebony, and wenge—each bass delivers captivating aesthetics paired with outstanding functionality. The renowned Tobias Asym™ asymmetrical neck offers unparalleled comfort, while the meticulously contoured body shapes ensure impeccable balance and effortless playability.
Image: The Tobias Classic V, right-handed version
Andrew Ladner, the Brand Manager for Epiphone and Kramer, adds, “It’s amazing to see this icon of the bass world return. These are truly a bass player’s bass, and true to the DNA that makes Tobias world-class—the ace up the sleeve of bass players around the globe since 1978. Today’s players can find that unique voice and feel only Tobias can offer.”
Yet, the true appeal of Tobias basses lies in their unmatched sonic versatility. With high-quality exotic hardwood construction, superior hardware, and active Bartolini® pickups paired with advanced preamps, these basses meet the dynamic tonal demands of modern bassists. Experience the ideal blend of visual elegance, smooth playability, and exceptional sound. Choose Tobias—crafted to exceed your musical expectations.
A legacy of innovation as the original boutique bass
Founded in 1977 by Michael Tobias in Orlando, Florida, Tobias Guitars quickly gained acclaim for pioneering unique design elements tailored to professional musicians. Early innovations included the ergonomically designed Tobias Asym™ neck profile, dual-truss-rod neck construction, and an elongated upper horn body shape providing superior balance and reduced playing fatigue. The brand became synonymous with high-quality, exotic tonewoods such as quilted maple, wenge, purpleheart, and walnut, delivering unmatched beauty and tonal versatility.
Famous bassists who have owned and played Tobias basses over the years include Chris Squire of Yes, Fleetwood Mac’s John McVie, John Myung of Dream Theater, Tribal Tech co-founder Gary Willis, and perhaps most famously, Metallica’s Robert Trujillo. After decades of production in California, Nashville, and Arkansas, Tobias ceased manufacturing in 2008, leaving fans eager for its return. And now they’re back!
Classic IV and Classic V: Timeless versatility
The Tobias Classic IV and V basses epitomize tonal excellence and unmatched craftsmanship. Each Classic model offers a 34″ scale with a meticulously crafted neck combining hard maple and purpleheart. The Classic IV features a neck-through-body design with five-piece construction, walnut and wenge body wings topped with stunning quilted maple, and active Bartolini® humbucking pickups.
Image: The Tobias Classic V and IV, right-handed versions with massive tonal options
Meanwhile, the Classic V introduces a paulownia body, prized for its lightweight properties and resonant tone. Both models utilize the Tobias Asym neck, wenge fretboards, Babicz® bridges, Gotoh® tuners, and versatile electronics designed to satisfy modern players.
Killer B IV and Killer B V: Exceptional clarity and playability
Returning in four and five-string models, the Killer B basses continue the tradition of clarity, articulation, and tonal balance. Both versions feature a 34″ scale with 5-piece necks of hard maple and purpleheart, comfortable bolt-on construction, and ergonomically contoured bodies made from rich, resonant sapele. The Tobias Killer B IV and Killer B V are ready to take your playing to new heights.
Image: The Tobias Killer B IV right-handed version in action
Dual Bartolini active humbucking pickups combined with an 18V preamp ensure expansive tonal flexibility, ideal for professional stage and studio settings. Babicz bridges, Gotoh tuners, and Tobias’s premium gig bags complete the professional package.
Image: The Tobias Killer B IV and V, right-handed versions
Growler IV and Growler V: Punchy, articulate tone
The Growler series returns to delight bassists with punchy mids, articulate highs, and a defined low-end presence. Crafted from paulownia and featuring a 34″ scale, these models boast lightweight comfort and superb musical resonance. The Growler IV and Growler V offer tremendous tonal sculpting capabilities to dial in the perfect tone.
Image: The Tobias Growler IV and the distinctive Tobias headstock
Each Growler is equipped with a 3-piece bolt-on neck of hard maple and purpleheart, Tobias Asym neck profiles, wenge fretboards, and single Bartolini active humbucking pickups. Premium Babicz bridges and Gotoh tuners provide reliable tuning and precision adjustments.
Image: The Tobias Growler V and IV and their respective Babicz® bridges
Crafted for modern bassists
Tobias basses combine the brand’s historical craftsmanship with modern innovation, using premium tonewoods, hardware, and electronics from Bartolini, Babicz, and Gotoh. Each instrument is designed to meet the demanding requirements of contemporary bassists, offering sonic versatility, comfortable playability, and striking visual appeal. Whether you’re returning to Tobias or discovering these legendary basses for the first time, the new Original Collection is ready to inspire your musical journey.
Experience the legacy and innovation that sets Tobias apart. Your ideal bass awaits—shop the collection now.
