SOLDBrand: Gibson
Instrument Categories: Bass, Guitars, SOLD
Gibson introduced the Thunderbird bass in 1963 as part of a new lineup of instruments created by legendary auto designer Ray Dietrich. The new models included the Firebird and Explorer, and they used a new ‘Reverse’ body style – the upper treble bout and the lower bass bouts were longer. On ‘Non Reverse’ style instruments, like the Stratocaster, the upper bass bout is longer. Unfortunately, these futuristic instruments didn’t sell very well and there were some legal complaints from Fender regarding the shape of the headstock, so from 1965 to 1969 new versions, the ‘Non Reverse’ Thunderbirds and Firebirds were built.
The Thunderbird Bass in its ‘Non-Reverse’ form not only looks different from the ‘Reverse’ model, it’s built differently. The ‘Non Reverse’ models use a set-neck construction, instead of the original through-neck. All of the models are built using mahogany for the body and neck, with rosewood fingerboards. Thunderbird humbucking pickups are used, and the hardware tends to be black.
This Thunderbird bass dates to November 16 2012 but was built as a 2013 model – at this point Gibson had started stamping the model year on the back of the headstock, below the MADE IN USA stamp. It is in very nice condition and plays well, with very light fretwear and only light finish scuffing. I find Thunderbirds, and Firebirds, to be fairly large guitars in terms of length but they are quite comfortable and well balanced. The original hardshell case is included.
- Model: Thunderbird Bass 'Non Reverse' 2013 Model
- Year: Current
- Class: Used
- Serial Number: 132120347, built at the Gibson Nashville Plant on November 16 2012 as a 2013 model,
- Country of Origin: USA
- Condition: Very Good
- Date Posted: 29/05/2017
- This instrument has been sold
- Consignment Item
- Including original Hard case
