The Thunderbird bass was launched as a reverse style bass in 1963. Sales were moderate but not improved when the instrument was designed as a non-reverse model in 1965. Production ceased in 1969, only to be launched again in 1976, as an original reverse bodied guitar, known as the Thunderbird '76. Sales were better this time round, but production stopped again in 1979. The model was finally resurrected again in 1987 as one of Gibson's flagship models, and enjoys a level of commercial success not seen in any of it's 1960s or 70s incarnations.
The design is broadly the same as the other reverse body versions, though there is no nickel or chrome on show. The pickup covers are black, like the bridge - and there is no bridge cover or handrest.
1992 Thunderbird IV specifications
The Gibson Thunderbird IV had a US list price of $
Control cavity of a 1992 Gibson Thunderbird IV
Sound Clips
These sound clips are recorded directly into a mobilepre preamp. Fitted with round wound strings.
Standard sound finger style
both pickups, and tone control all on 10. Played fingerstyle.
Neck pickup
Neck pickup only, tone control on 10. Played fingerstyle.
Bridge pickup
pickup only, tone control on 10. Played fingerstyle.
Toned down
both pickups on 10, and tone control on 0. Played fingerstyle.
Standard sound with pick
both pickups, and tone control all on 10. Played with pick.
Gibson Thunderbird basses for sale
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Used 2022 Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass, Ebony
Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2380
A rock 'n' roll legend, Gene Simmons has inspired countless metal-heads to bring groovy, rockin' sound to the world. The 2022-model Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass carries that essence in the purest form. Built in America, this striking bass has a Reverse Thunderbird body made from mahogany, with a Mirror Plex pickguard for an awesome look. The rounded mahogany neck hosts an ebony fingerboard, and it's powered by a set of T-Bird pickups, each with individual volumes and a master tone ... more
Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar
Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1599
Beautiful red sparkle non-reverse Thunderbird bass guitar professional set up excellent condition some very light scratches. Nothing to mention. Looks just like the pictures Babicz replacement bridge Bartolini Thunderbird pick ups Plays and sounds fantastic. New strings case has some scratches nothing major
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1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial - Rare Vintage Electric Bass
New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
€2200
1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass ?? All Original, Near Mint Condition
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
? Historical Background:In 1976, to ... more
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
? Historical Background:In 1976, to ... more
1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals it's 1 of a kind & Minty
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$27495
These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is straight as an arrow ... more
1964 Gibson Thunderbird II Bass an outstanding example its 1 of a kind & Minty !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$17495
These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its pretty mahogany neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is ... more
Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Burgundy Mist
McDonough, Georgia, 302**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$510
Bass is in great condition. Has some light scratches and small dings in the heads. Has 2 dings in the headstock, one on the bottom and one at the top. Can be seen in the pics. Also has a tiny ding onnthe back of the headstock and a small flaw in the clearcoat on the back of the headstock about the size of a dime. Could not get a good pic of it. Everything is in good working condition. Comes with case and every thing pictured. Free shipping. Thanks! Bass is very light!
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Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird
Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$400
This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$13495
These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more
GIBSON NON REVERSE THUNDERBIRD BASS (P03047365)
Spokane, Washington, 992**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1800
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Rare Black Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird / All Original / No Breaks
Louisville, Kentucky, 402**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$5500
Only 91 Black Thunderbirds were produced in 1976 and here is one of the nicest I've seen. All original, no cracks, no breaks and an ebony fretboard. The neck is straight and really not a lot of playwear for it's age. Overall a fine playing bass. Original pickup cover, bridgecover plus a later hard-shell case that is also in fine condition. As per usual with older Thunderbirds, the strap button on the neck has been moved for better balance. It has never been gigged in the years I have owned it ... more
Gibson Thunderbird IV 4 String Rex Brown Pantera Bass Ebony Black w / VIDEO
San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1895
Scroll down to see 44 HD Images of this bass
Here's a 2022 Gibson Rex Brown Thunderbird 4 string bass guitar in a factory original Ebony finish
She's in very good condition and has light playwear
The top back and sides are glossy and clean with some very light indents and a few superficial scratches
The back has some clear coat micro scratches
The serial number is 226530207 and she made in the Nashville Gibson plant in 2022
She has a fresh set up with d'addario 45 / ... more
Here's a 2022 Gibson Rex Brown Thunderbird 4 string bass guitar in a factory original Ebony finish
She's in very good condition and has light playwear
The top back and sides are glossy and clean with some very light indents and a few superficial scratches
The back has some clear coat micro scratches
The serial number is 226530207 and she made in the Nashville Gibson plant in 2022
She has a fresh set up with d'addario 45 / ... more
1987 GIBSON BASS IV - Made in USA - THUNDERBIRD PICKUPS
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£1090
1987 GIBSON BASS IV - made in USA :
* the black painted part of the body was cut off before by some moron and replaced with 2 pieces of ash=
check pic 5
* pearl white finish is very worn
* Thunderbird pickups
* black Schaller hardware
* ebony fingerboard, frets are fine
... more
* the black painted part of the body was cut off before by some moron and replaced with 2 pieces of ash=
check pic 5
* pearl white finish is very worn
* Thunderbird pickups
* black Schaller hardware
* ebony fingerboard, frets are fine
... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY DELUXE BASS - made in USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£2850
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY BASS USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND - LONG SCALE
COLOGNE, GERMANY
€3250
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
Gibson Thunderbird non reverse Inverness green
London, W5***, UNITED KINGDOM
£1400
i m selling this beautyful gibson thunderbird non reverse in MINT condition, action low very good playability, low action thunderous tone, is complete with all the papers and cerification, i bought the bass new from guitar guitar.... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY DELUXE BASS - made in USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£2850
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
Gibson Thunderbird Bass Rex Brown Limited Edition with all accessories and case
Preston, PR4***, UNITED KINGDOM
£2047
As new. only carefully gigged a handful of times. There is one tiny ding in the base which I've shown in the photo. other than that some very fine scratches on the back that are extremely superficial and hard to see
As I say, any blemishes are superficial however as it is not 'factory fresh' I have priced it accordingly. Why am I selling it? I simply prefer my Rick!!
It comes with the solid Gibson case complete with the Gibson accessories, postcard and owner booklet and new superb quality... more
As I say, any blemishes are superficial however as it is not 'factory fresh' I have priced it accordingly. Why am I selling it? I simply prefer my Rick!!
It comes with the solid Gibson case complete with the Gibson accessories, postcard and owner booklet and new superb quality... more
GIBSON Bass Guitar Saddles for 3-point Bridge (EB, SG, Thunderbird models)
Perugia, 06***, ITALY
€30
GIBSON
Bass Guitar Saddles for 3-point Bridge
(EB, SG, Thunderbird models)
Vendo un set di 4 sellette con relative viti per ponti con fissaggio a tre viti usati sui bassi Gibson ed Epiphone, modelli EB0 / EB3, SG, Thunderbird ed altri. Sono di marca sconosciuta, ma compatibili con quelle usate dalla Gibson
Lunghezza delle viti 35mm
Sono in ottimo stato, numerate sul retro 1-3-3-4, con le due esterne leggermente più basse e le centrali più alte. Le due sellette centrali sono ... more
Bass Guitar Saddles for 3-point Bridge
(EB, SG, Thunderbird models)
Vendo un set di 4 sellette con relative viti per ponti con fissaggio a tre viti usati sui bassi Gibson ed Epiphone, modelli EB0 / EB3, SG, Thunderbird ed altri. Sono di marca sconosciuta, ma compatibili con quelle usate dalla Gibson
Lunghezza delle viti 35mm
Sono in ottimo stato, numerate sul retro 1-3-3-4, con le due esterne leggermente più basse e le centrali più alte. Le due sellette centrali sono ... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY BASS USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND - LONG SCALE
COLOGNE, GERMANY
€3250
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
Gibson Thunderbird IV READY TO GIG
Nocera Superiore, 84***, ITALY
€6990
Thunderbird IV Bass, READY TO GIG This instrument has had its neck and headstock replaced , repainted in black ,the diameter of the nut is 10 cm 1\2 on the first fretthe serial number, engraved on the replaced headstock, is 21 81 20, the frets have been transferred on the new neck, Everything else, regarding the body it has been repositioned .The potentiometers have been replaced, they are not the original onesThe "soapbar" pickups are original and unmistakable in sound, I supply the replaced ... more