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You can't talk about boutique bass innovation without mentioning Tobias. Founded by Michael Tobias in 1978, the brand quickly gained a reputation for pushing boundaries. By introducing features like active electronics, ergonomic contours, and their now-iconic asymmetrical neck profile, Tobias made waves in the bass space, paving the way for these features to become industry standards.
Cut to the '90s: Gibson acquired Tobias, continuing the brand’s legacy with a handful of forward-thinking models that blended boutique, high-end craftsmanship with the broader accessibility that only a name like Gibson could bring. And now, after years under the radar, Gibson has officially relaunched the Tobias line—reintroducing players to designs like the Killer B, refreshed for a new generation.
I got my hands on the updated Tobias Killer B IV, (5-string also available!) and it’s every bit the tone-shaping machine I’d hoped for, with comfort and playability that feels custom-built. Let’s dive in.
Quick Overview
Tobias' designs just scream "bass player’s bass." And when Gibson took over the brand in the ’90s, they committed to maintaining the high-end craftsmanship Tobias was known for while also offering players something more attainable. One of the standout results of that era? The Killer B.
With its dual-pickup design and expanded EQ controls, the Killer B was always geared toward versatility. Now, with the re-launched Tobias line, Gibson has brought the Killer B back. This time, with some thoughtful upgrades and fresh tonewood choices. I recently got to plug in the new Tobias Killer B IV and put it through its paces. But first, the specs.
SPECS:
Body: Satin Natural Sapele
Neck: 5-piece Hard Maple with Purpleheart, Bolt-on, Tobias Asymmetrical Profile
Fingerboard Material: Wenge
Number of Frets: 24
Scale Length: 34"
Nut Material: Bone
Bridge/Tailpiece: Babicz FCHZ4BK
Tuners: Gotoh Compact Die-cast
Pickups: Dual Bartolini Soapbars (4-string) with Tobias Radiused Tops
Controls: 1 x Master Volume, 3-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble)
Switching: Mid Frequency Mini Switch
Hardware Finish: Black Chrome
Knobs: Black Knurled Metal
Case: Tobias Premium Gig Bag
Orientation: Right-handed
Build Quality, Ergonomics & Playability
The Killer B lives up to its name: this is a killer b(ass). The satin-finished swamp ash body keeps things lightweight and resonant, without sacrificing low-end punch. At just around 8 lbs, it hits the sweet spot for players who want some mass for tone but not something that’ll drag them down on stage.
As with the Growler, comfort is king here. The body contour is sleek and thoughtfully shaped, sitting comfortably against your body whether you're strapped in or sitting down. But the real MVP is the asymmetrical neck, perhaps Tobias's greatest contribution to the canon of bass design. Thicker on the bass side and thinner on the treble side, this neck fits perfectly in your hand. It promotes better ergonomics, preventing fatigue during long sessions and allowing for better access in the upper register.
Electronics and Tone
Where the Growler delivers surprising tone from a single quad-coil, the Killer B goes the full dual-pickup route. Two Bartolini soapbars give you a wide tonal palette—throaty, punchy, clear, smooth, you name it. And with blend and EQ controls (plus an active/passive switch), dialing in exactly what you need is almost too easy (once you get the hang of what all those knobs and switches do).
I started by cutting the mids slightly and boosting the bass a bit—using the 3-band EQ knobs—to dial in a deep, scooped tone. Then, shooting for a more modern prog or metal tone, I brought the mids back up and added a slight treble boost. A flick of the mid frequency switch sweeps up into that upper-midrange sweet spot that helps complex riffs really cut through a dense mix.
Finally, for a tight, funky sound, I rolled the bass down a touch, added a sharp treble boost, and set the mids around 800Hz using the sweep control—perfect for percussive fingerstyle or slap playing. Each adjustment was super intuitive, and the EQ responded with real precision.
All of which is to say, this bass is designed to do it all, and it does so effortlessly.
Also Consider
Tobias Growler Bass
No matter whether your bag is pop and R&B, to funk and metal, the Growler (full review) is an affordable bass that’s designed with real bass players in mind. Its ergonomic design makes for an incredibly comfortable playing experience, and all the tonal bells and whistles provide a range of versatility that bring a professional level of quality to an accessible price point.
Verdict
The Tobias Killer B is a bold return for one of Tobias’s most versatile designs. With pro-tier features, excellent build quality, and a thoughtful approach to tone shaping and ergonomics, it punches way above its price class. It’s a bass made by bass players, for bass players—and it shows.
If you’re looking for a modern, flexible bass that doesn’t compromise on comfort or quality, the Killer B is absolutely worth your time (and money).
Of course they offer it in a right-handed orientation. But do they also offer in a left-handed orientation or should the listing state Orientation “Right-handed Only”?