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 curvaceous, asymmetrical body was radical and groundbreaking at the time — and it still looks fresh and contemporary today.
The earliest Thunderbirds featured a 9-ply neck-through-body construction with mahogany “wings,” making them the first Gibson basses built with neck-through 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 to feature a long 34” scale length; previous Gibson basses used a shorter 30.5” scale.
Now Gibson is proud to introduce a new version of the legendary Thunderbird to the lineup. The new Thunderbird Bass features a solid mahogany body in the original Reverse body shape. The body retains the visual character of the original neck-through design, with a raised center section running through the middle. However, this model uses a glued-in set mahogany neck with a fast-playing SlimTaper profile, making it more comfortable and accessible than ever. The headstock features the popular Non-Reverse style, making tuning quick and intuitive.
Other modern updates include Hipshot Ultralite Mini-Clover tuning machines for improved balance and precise tuning, along with a Hipshot Supertone bridge that delivers full intonation control and adjustable action height.
Like the mythical bird-like spirit of North American Indigenous cultures for which it is named, the Thunderbird Bass is powerful thanks to its two EB Bass humbucker pickups. They deliver massive output and low-end punch. Each pickup has its own volume control, allowing you to use them individually or blend them in any ratio you prefer, while a master tone control provides additional shaping. The 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 Thunderbird Bass today and own the low end in thunderous style.
Thunderbird Bass Features
- Solid mahogany body
- Set mahogany neck with SlimTaper profile
- Non-Reverse headstock
- Rosewood fingerboard
- Two EB Bass humbucker pickups
- Hipshot Supertone bridge
- Hipshot Ultralite Mini-Clover tuning machines
- Includes a hardshell case
