Some basses, notably the Fusion models, have what is known as a 'neck-thru': unlike the traditional set-neck or bolt-on models, this neck runs right through the body. Like its electro-acoustic guitar counterpart, the electro-acoustic bass is distinguished from other bass guitar models by the amplification system: this is often a piezo system built into the bridge, unlike all other bass guitar models which use either one (P-model) or two (J-models and Fusion) pickups comparable to the magnetic pickups on electric guitars. However, there are some rare ' hollow body' models, such as the one used by Paul McCartney with the Beatles. In all the above cases, the instrument is almost always of the ' solid body' type, like the most common electric guitars. Another possible variant is the f retless bass, with a smooth fingerboard like the one on the double bass. While the 4-string bass is the most common model, it is not uncommon to find 5-string basses: usually an extra low B string, more rarely a high C. Because they are thicker and longer, they sound twice as low. The thick strings of a four-string bass have the same names as the four lowest strings of a guitar (E, A, D, G).

The main differences? They have a longer neck and usually only four strings. Electric basses look pretty much the same as electric guitars. The electric bass was born very soon after the invention of electric guitars in the middle of the last century.

Pizzicato counterpart