GEAR UP: Gibson Tobias Growler V vs. Classic V

Gibson has brought back the Tobias brand, and we take a look at the Tobias Growler V and Classic V. For those players who want a little more options than Precision or Jazz models. But which one fits your style? 

While Gibson is one of the most recognizable names in guitars, they don’t rank high on a bassist’s wish list. But, after years of focusing heavily on their iconic electric guitars, Gibson has circled back with something new-ish for bass players. The 2025 reintroduction of the Tobias line—featuring the Growler, Classic, and Killer B models—signals something deeper: a recognition that bassists want more than just an afterthought instrument. They want intention. They want feel. And they want quality.

Thanks to Gibson, I had the opportunity to spend some time with the 5-string versions of the Classic and Growler models. And, to give them a spin, I learned  the bassline to Jung Kook’s “Standing Next to You,” a track that’s been stuck in my head for a while, and I feel is just technical enough to take them through their paces. 

The specs:

The Growler V

The Growler V has a 34″ scale with a bolt-on 3-piece hard maple and purpleheart neck, 24-fret wenge fingerboard, 12 inch radius and the Tobias Asym™ profile (it’s asymmetrical, thinner on one side than the other to feel more comfortable in hand). The paulownia body keeps it lightweight and ergonomic without sacrificing tone. Hardware includes black Gotoh® tuners and a Babicz® bridge.  A Bartolini® active humbucker, an 18V preamp amp, and a full suite of tone-shaping controls: a master volume, a blend knob,  two stacked treble and bass knobs, and two 3-way mid switches, that allows the single pickup to give you limitless options,  everything from clean and warm to punchy and aggressive.

The Classic V

The Classic V has a 34″ scale, neck-through 5-piece maple and purpleheart neck, walnut/wenge body wings with a quilted maple cap, and a wenge fingerboard with 24 jumbo frets. Gold Gotoh® tuners and a Babicz® bridge.  She’s got dual active Bartolini humbuckers and an 18V preamp under the hood, and full EQ controls (Bass, Mid, Treble, Blend, Volume, plus a Mid Frequency switch).

First Impressions: 

Both basses arrived in a natural satin finish, showcasing the wood grain with a beautiful, earthy texture. It’s subtle, but stunning — especially in a world where color often takes center stage. If you care about craftsmanship and the look of real wood, these guitars offer something honest.

The Tobias Classic V is the more elegant of the two, visually and physically. It has a vintage-inspired body style that feels substantial and is more ornate. Gold Hardware, gloss finish, and a heavy quilted maple cap; it feels and looks premium. The Tobias Growler V, meanwhile, is more bare-bones, clearly built with performance, weight balance, and the player who has something more straightforward in mind. No gloss finish, more understated, black hardware. Just a real studio or touring instrument, but beautiful in its own right. 

Weight & Comfort: 

Let’s address the physical experience. The Classic V is heavier. But more in line with what you expect from a normal bass. But if you’re a newbie, and you’re playing standing up for long rehearsals or gigs, you’ll feel it in your shoulders and back after a while. It’s not unbearable—but it’s noticeable. Advice: get that core work in. 

The Growler V is much lighter, but there’s a tradeoff: neck dive.  While the body is lightweight, the neck wants to tip forward when you let go. And the body shape doesn’t exactly help in this regard. So be careful.  I love Gibsons, but neck, headstock, always seems to be an area of concern.

Tone & Feel: 

Both instruments sound exceptional, but in different ways.

The Growler V is warm, full, and smooth

If you’re into soul, R&B, jazz, or gospel, this bass feels like home. The tones are rich and rounded, with just enough bite when you dig in.  The fingerboard feels natural whether you’re laying down a groove or moving quickly across the frets.

The Classic V is sharp, dynamic, and powerful. 

This is a bass for players who want to sculpt their sound. Whether you’re into funk, fusion, hip-hop, or experimental styles, the Classic gives you options. With multiple EQ controls, toggle switches, and an active/passive option, there’s a lot happening under the hood. It’s a tone chaser’s dream—but there is a learning curve.

Controls & Features: Not For The Faint Of Heart

Passive to active bass control layouts might seem like going from a regular steering wheel to an F1 wheel. The Growler V, and Classic V and both active basses so they come packed with buttons and switches that let you dial in extremely specific tones. Active electronics give them  a strong output and a sharper tonal edge, but with that comes complexity.  If you’re used to the simpler Fender tone control, this might feel a bit alien. But for the bassist who wants to dial in studio-grade sounds or adapt to different genres on the fly, both offer flexibility that few others can match.

Verdict: 

Personally, I lean toward the Growler V. It’s lighter, and I liked the tones. It’s the easier of the two to pick up and master. If you’re more traditional in your style or looking for a reliable, studio-ready bass that doesn’t overwhelm, 

That said, the Classic V is the more visually appealing instrument. It’s beautifully built, rich in tone, but I’ll be honest: I had to spend time understanding the controls. The payoff was worth it. For those who want to really dial in their tone and have a Bass that stands out, the Classic V is an outstanding choice. 

Bottom Line: 

Both of these instruments represent something important—a return to form for Gibson basses, and a recognition that bassists are innovators too. They’re not just backing up someone else’s song. They’re building the foundation. These basses give you tools to do that—whether you’re coming from church, the studio, or a downtown venue where every sound matters.

Choose the Growler V if:

• You prefer a warmer, more vintage tone.
• You want a lighter instrument with a modern design.
• You’re willing to adjust for neck dive and complexity.
• You don’t want to fiddle with a lot of knobs and settings.

Choose the Classic V if:

• You love experimenting with tones and active EQ systems.
• You’re okay with a little more weight in exchange for classic feel.
• You want your bass to get as many looks as you do. 

Final Thoughts

Bass players often get overlooked—by brands, by the media, and sometimes even by their own bands. But they have been coming to the forefront more with players like ThunderCatt, Esperanza Spaulding, April Kae, etc… These two Tobias basses are bold statements from Gibson that bassists deserve choice, depth, and design.

If you’re looking for a bass that challenges you to grow—musically, technically, maybe even spiritually—the Classic V is calling. But if you’re ready to settle into something refined and timeless, the Growler V is a love letter to all the grooves that came before.

Either way, it’s good to be seen.

Tags: Gibson Tobias Review, Tobias Growler V Bass, Tobias Classic V Bass, Best Bass Guitars 2025, Gibson Bass Review, Active vs Passive Bass, Gibson, Black Musicians Gear, Afropunk Gear