HILS Guitars HNB3 NEXT Ivory Headless basgitaar

Headless Short-Scale Bass for Big Tone Without the Bulk

The HILS Guitars HNB3 NEXT Ivory is a headless short-scale bass for players who want real low-end punch without the weight and reach of a traditional full-scale instrument. At 2.5 kg and 927 mm overall, it fits easily into overhead luggage and compact rehearsal spaces. A 762 mm scale shortens stretches across the fretboard, easing wide interval work for guitarists crossing over to bass. This model provides full bass tone in a travel-ready package.

What Sets the HNB3 Apart in the Headless Bass Category

Two design choices distinguish this instrument among headless basses. A custom mono-rail bridge with 20 mm string spacing features integrated tuning hardware in each saddle, providing tuning stability without a traditional headstock. The headpiece, custom-designed by Alchemy, gives the string clamp a machined feel. You’ll find a ceramic humbucker in the sweet-spot, ensuring a focused voice with no batteries required.

Mahogany Body and Lightweight Headless Construction

Finished in satin ivory, the mahogany body adds warmth and resonance while minimizing weight. Headless construction eliminates neck dive, making long playing sessions more comfortable.

• Body Material: Mahogany — warmth and resonance
• Weighing just 2.5 kg, this bass is easy to carry for travel and extended performances
• Overall Length: 927 mm — fits overhead luggage compartments

Short-Scale Neck Built for Speed and Reach

The 5-piece maple/walnut neck is bolt-on with a C-shape profile. With a 762 mm scale, string tension is reduced compared to a full-scale bass, reinforcing the fundamental frequencies.

• Scale Length: 762 mm — short-scale feel with full low-end
• Fingerboard: Indian laurel, 305 mm radius
• Twenty-four stainless steel frets and a bone nut (38 mm width) create a smooth, durable playing surface

Passive Electronics and Custom Hardware

Electronics are streamlined: one custom humbucker, one volume, one master tone. There’s no active preamp, just a passive circuit designed for responsive playing dynamics.

• Pickup: Single custom humbucker (passive) in the sweet-spot position
• The custom mono-rail bridge offers 20 mm string spacing and tuning stability, ideal for precise adjustments
• Headpiece: Custom designed by Alchemy — paired with D'Addario EXL165 (.045-.105) strings

Designed for Guitarists, Travelers, and Modern Players

Players who want to add a real bass without dealing with the weight and reach of a full-scale instrument will find this model a strong option. Those with smaller frames benefit from the 2.5 kg headless construction. Traveling musicians appreciate the 927 mm overall length and the included deluxe padded gig bag. If you prefer vintage Fender warmth, you may wish to explore other options.

About HILS and the NEXT Series

HILS crafts its instruments around the headless concept, and the NEXT line represents its short-scale family. Made in Indonesia, the HNB3 ships with a HILS deluxe padded gig bag, making it a portable alternative to traditional short-scale basses. Customer reviews average 4.83 out of 5 stars, with players highlighting the lightweight feel and mono-rail tuning stability as reasons this instrument has become their go-to travel bass.