What tonewoods are used for the body of the Guild B-140E?

The B-140E is constructed with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid African mahogany for the back and sides. This combination provides a balance of bright articulation and warm, resonant low-end.

Does the Guild B-140E come with a case?

Yes, the B-140E is supplied with a Guild gig bag as standard. This ensures the instrument is protected during transport to rehearsals or performances.

What is the scale length of the Guild B-140E?

The instrument features a standard 34-inch (long scale) length. This provides a familiar feel for players transitioning from electric bass guitars.

What pickup system is installed in this model?

The B-140E uses the Guild/Fishman BT-1 pickup system. This system is designed specifically for acoustic instruments to provide a transparent amplified tone.

Where are the volume and tone controls located?

The controls are mounted inside the soundhole. This placement allows for easy access while maintaining the traditional aesthetic of the instrument's exterior.

What is the body shape of the Guild B-140E?

It features a jumbo body shape. This larger body size is essential for providing the acoustic volume and low-frequency response needed for an acoustic bass.

What is the neck profile of the B-140E?

The neck has a comfortable 'C' shape profile. It is made from mahogany and designed to offer a smooth, familiar playing experience.

What material is used for the fingerboard?

The fingerboard is made from rosewood. This material is chosen for its durability and its contribution to the instrument's warm tonal character.

Is the Guild B-140E suitable for unplugged performances?

Yes, the solid wood construction and jumbo body are specifically designed for strong unplugged projection. It is intended to be audible during acoustic rehearsals and small gatherings.

How does the B-140E compare to smaller acoustic basses?

Unlike smaller concert-sized acoustic basses, the B-140E's jumbo shape provides significantly more volume and a deeper bass response. The use of all-solid woods also typically results in better resonance than laminate alternatives.

Are the back and sides of the B-140E solid or laminate?

The back and sides are made of solid African mahogany. This is a premium feature compared to many entry-level acoustic basses that use laminated woods.

What decorative details are found on the B-140E?

The instrument features a natural finish that highlights the wood grain and is adorned with a mother-of-pearl rosette around the soundhole.

Gear article

Guild B-140E Acoustic Bass

The Guild B-140E Natural is a professional-grade acoustic bass guitar featuring an all-solid wood construction and a large jumbo body design. Designed for high-volume acoustic projection and reliable amplified performance, it incorporates a Fishman electronics system and premium tonewoods.

See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Guild B-140E is situated within the brand's Westerly Collection, a series that pays homage to Guild's historic production era in Rhode Island. This model is defined by its all-solid tonewood construction, utilizing a solid Sitka spruce top paired with solid African mahogany for the back and sides.

The instrument is built on a jumbo body platform, which is traditionally the preferred choice for acoustic basses due to the air volume required to produce audible low-frequency notes. The aesthetic is understated yet premium, featuring a natural finish and a mother-of-pearl rosette.

Playability and Hardware

The B-140E is designed with a familiar 'C' shaped mahogany neck, providing a profile that accommodates various hand sizes and playing styles. It features a standard 34-inch scale length, ensuring string tension remains consistent with most electric bass guitars.

The fingerboard and bridge are crafted from rosewood, a classic choice for durability and warmth. To facilitate easy transport and protection, the instrument is supplied with a dedicated Guild gig bag.

Fender Vintage Precision Bass Pickup Cover Chrome

Electronics and Sound Character

Acoustically, the B-140E is engineered for strong projection. The combination of spruce and mahogany results in a full, resonant voice with significant natural character and a pronounced low-end response. This makes it suitable for unplugged rehearsals where smaller-bodied basses might struggle to be heard.

For live performance or recording, the guitar is equipped with the Guild/Fishman BT-1 pickup system. This system includes soundhole-mounted volume and tone controls, allowing the player to make discreet adjustments without altering the instrument's side-wood integrity.

Intended Application

The B-140E is a versatile tool for bassists who work across both acoustic and amplified environments. It is particularly well-suited for:

Acoustic ensembles: Where natural volume and unplugged presence are required.
Practice sessions: Allowing for full-scale practice without the need for an external amplifier.
Studio recording: Offering a resonant, woody alternative to the standard electric bass tone.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What tonewoods are used for the body of the Guild B-140E?: The B-140E is constructed with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid African mahogany for the back and sides. This combination provides a balance of bright articulation and warm, resonant low-end.
Does the Guild B-140E come with a case?: Yes, the B-140E is supplied with a Guild gig bag as standard. This ensures the instrument is protected during transport to rehearsals or performances.
What is the scale length of the Guild B-140E?: The instrument features a standard 34-inch (long scale) length. This provides a familiar feel for players transitioning from electric bass guitars.
What pickup system is installed in this model?: The B-140E uses the Guild/Fishman BT-1 pickup system. This system is designed specifically for acoustic instruments to provide a transparent amplified tone.
Where are the volume and tone controls located?: The controls are mounted inside the soundhole. This placement allows for easy access while maintaining the traditional aesthetic of the instrument's exterior.
What is the body shape of the Guild B-140E?: It features a jumbo body shape. This larger body size is essential for providing the acoustic volume and low-frequency response needed for an acoustic bass.
What is the neck profile of the B-140E?: The neck has a comfortable 'C' shape profile. It is made from mahogany and designed to offer a smooth, familiar playing experience.
What material is used for the fingerboard?: The fingerboard is made from rosewood. This material is chosen for its durability and its contribution to the instrument's warm tonal character.
Is the Guild B-140E suitable for unplugged performances?: Yes, the solid wood construction and jumbo body are specifically designed for strong unplugged projection. It is intended to be audible during acoustic rehearsals and small gatherings.
How does the B-140E compare to smaller acoustic basses?: Unlike smaller concert-sized acoustic basses, the B-140E's jumbo shape provides significantly more volume and a deeper bass response. The use of all-solid woods also typically results in better resonance than laminate alternatives.
Are the back and sides of the B-140E solid or laminate?: The back and sides are made of solid African mahogany. This is a premium feature compared to many entry-level acoustic basses that use laminated woods.
What decorative details are found on the B-140E?: The instrument features a natural finish that highlights the wood grain and is adorned with a mother-of-pearl rosette around the soundhole.