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 Standard Bass
RD Standard1978 RD Standard (Natural)
Prices & Publicity
Schematic
RD prod. totals
Gibson RD bass guitars for sale
Vintage Gibson RD Standard Bass Natural 1977
Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2499
Vintage Gibson RD Standard Bass Natural 1977
PLEASE CONTACT US WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR AN IN-HAND DESCRIPTION
Made for only a brief moment in the late '70s, this lovely RD Standard bass offers excellent tone & feel with passive electronics. Professionally set up with fresh strings & low action so it's ready to play straight out of the case
Cosmetic Condition: Various nicks, chips, dents & dings; scratches & some finish wear
Neck: Semi-chunky maple neck with... more
1979 Vintage Maple Gibson RD Artist Bass Gtr with a History
Bloomfield, New Jersey, 070**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$4900
From the private collection of artist / songwriter Martin Briley, this Gibson RD Artist bass was used exclusively on tour, in videos and in the studio by Martin Briley with the Ian Hunter / Mick Ronson Band in 1979 and 1980. It also appears on the Ian Hunter albums ?Welcome to the Club?? and ?Short Back ??n?? Sides??, it has been kept safely in storage ever since.
Considering it??s age the instrument is in excellent condition, with a little cosmetic damage ... 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
1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC
San Jose, California, 951**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$4000
" 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
1976 RD Standard Gibson Jazz Bass Guitar
Mission Hills, California, 913**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3000
PICK UP ONLY Mission Hills, CA (LA ... more
Gibson RD Artist (MOOG) Bass (Simms Custom repaint) + Original Hard Case
London, NW5***, UNITED KINGDOM
£4837