When the Gibson Thunderbird™ Bass was first introduced in 1963, the world had never seen another bass quite like it. Designed by automotive coach designer Ray Dietrich, who also designed the Gibson Firebird™, its new, curvaceous, and asymmetrical body design was radical and groundbreaking at the time, and still looks fresh and contemporary even today. The earliest Thunderbirds had a 9-ply neck-through-body with mahogany “wings,” and were the first Gibson basses with neck-through-body construction. Later, the Thunderbird was redesigned with a Non-Reverse body shape and a glued-in, set neck. The Thunderbird was also the first Gibson bass model to feature a long-scale (34”) neck; previous Gibson basses had a shorter 30.5” scale length.
Now, Gibson is proud to bring a new version of the legendary Thunderbird to the Gibson lineup. The new Thunderbird Bass features a solid mahogany body in the original reverse body shape. The body retains the appearance of the original neck-through design, featuring a raised section running through the middle. However, this new Thunderbird boasts a glued-in, set mahogany neck with a fast-playing SlimTaper™ profile, making it more comfortable and accessible than ever. Additionally, the headstock on the Thunderbird Bass features the popular Non-Reverse headstock style, making tuning up quick and intuitive. Other modern updates include Hipshot® Ultralite® Mini Clover tuning machines, which offer precise tuning and improved balance, along with a Hipshot Supertone bridge that delivers full intonation and adjustable action height.
Like the mythical bird-like spirit of the North American indigenous peoples’ culture that it is named after, the Thunderbird Bass is powerful, thanks to its two EB Bass humbucker™ pickups, which deliver the boom with plenty of output and low-end punch. Each pickup is connected to a separate volume control, allowing you to use either one individually or to blend them in any ratio you prefer. A master tone control allows for additional tonal control. And, of course, the Thunderbird’s 3-ply white pickguard features the iconic Thunderbird logo. The Thunderbird Bass comes packed in a Gibson hardshell case for protection during travel. Order your own Thunderbird Bass today, and own the low end in thunderous style.
All instruments from Music Makers are professionally evaluated and set-up in our historic Galesburg, IL. storefront prior to shipping.
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