The distinctively-styled Gibson RD series of the late 1970s comprised two bass models: the active RD Artist (initially known as the RD-77) and the passive RD Standard. Both models were built at Gibson's Kalamazoo factory (Michigan USA), with production starting in 1977, and continuing until early 1981. Only a little over 3600 Gibson RD basses were built in this time. There were also three Gibson RD guitar models (RD Standard, RD Custom and RD Artist), and even (unrealized?) plans for a doubleneck instrument.

Both Gibson RD basses, in true late seventies style, were maple-bodied, long-scale, and with a set maple neck. The RD Artist was equipped with some highly innovative electronics designed by Bob Moog (of Moog synthesiser fame) providing the guitar a bright mode, expansion / compression, and an exceedingly wide tonal palette.

This site has numerous pages of information about these basses, please examine some of the pages below.

Gibson RD Artist Bass

     RD Artist
          1978 RD Artist (Ebony)
          1978 RD Artist (Fireburst)
          1981 RD Artist CMT
          Prices & Publicity
          Soundclips
          Tech. Info.
                Part List
                Users Manual
          Timeline
     RD prod. totals

Gibson RD Standard Bass

     RD Standard
          1978 RD Standard (Natural)
          Prices & Publicity
          Schematic
     RD prod. totals

Gibson RD bass guitars for sale

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Gibson RD Artist MOOG 1978 Natural Maple 4-String Bass w / HSC (Used)

Sedalia, Missouri, 653**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

Has light wear and scratches from being played. Overall in great condition with no major wear or dings. Has typical flat Gibson style frets. Overall in great condition. Have some light wear but no divoting or anything to worry about. Screws for battery compartment cover have been swapped with flat head screws (as seen in photos). Corner of back plate is chipped (as seen in photos). Expander Sensitivity Control on back plate is missing the plastic cap. It does work and is accessible. Strap ... more

Gibson RD Artist Bass

Kennewick, Washington, 993**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3795

The Gibson RD Artist Bass is a high-quality electric bass guitar from the renowned brand Gibson. With a solid Maple body in a vibrant Fireburst color, this full-scale instrument is perfect for right-handed players. Featuring a Maple neck and Ebony fretboard, this 1978 model from the Artist series delivers exceptional sound and craftsmanship for bass players looking for a reliable and versatile instrument. Complete with a case, the Gibson RD Artist Bass is a classic choice for musicians seeking a... more

1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC

San Jose, California, 951**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

1978 Gibson RD Artist Bass Guitar + Original Gibson Hardshell Case
" NATURAL BLONDE" FINISH
GIBSON NORLIN-ERA
Original MOOG ELECTRONICS
Made in USA (Kalamazoo Plant, MI)
Production # 102 (April 17th release)
Adult owned only. Children-free, Pet-free household. Kept inside case when not used

Up for sale is a BEAUTIFUL LATE-70's Gibson Bass Guitar (RD ARTIST)
EXCELLENT overall vintage condition. Standard surface scratches, light dings, marks on front / back body / ... more

Gibson RD Artist Bass

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, 279**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2999

1978 (February 25, #117) Gibson RD Artist Series Bass Guitar in very good condition. Lightly played with all original parts and electronics. All switches and knobs work smoothly without crackle or static. Minor blemishes and scuffs from playing, no deep gouges or scrapes. Hamer brand case is clean inside, needs some hardware but is functional. Medium heavy flat-wound strings on it now. Sounds like a beast!! Case kept, non-smoking home.
... more

Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag! -LL

Mesquite, Texas, 751**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

Item: Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag!
Description: You are purchasing a Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag!Neck had a break but has been repaired. See PhotoIT has some wear and tear from normal usage Beautiful flamed wood finish Plays and sounds Please ask any questions before buying if you have any Shipping: $100 00 shipping to the Lower 48 States! We ship overseas. Overseas shipping prices will vary. Overseas buyers pay their own import taxes Payment: We accept Paypal for your ... more

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