The Gibson RD Artist bass development started in 1975, with the production basses shipping in 1977 (see RD timeline). The bass was a product of Moog and Gibson; both subsidiaries of Norlin; Bob Moog produced some highly innovative electronics, housed in a body designed by Bruce Bolen, head of the Gibson Research and Development department (hence RD), based in Kalamazoo. Note the large control cavity in the rear to house the Moog circuit board. (more about the RD Artist circuitry here).
The body design was patented: filed in 1978 and granted in 1980, and is reproduced below.
The bass pictured in the design patented has the first version RD77 electronics, i.e. it has two three way toggle stitches, rather than the later arrangement of one toggle/two mini toggles of the RD79. Find out more about the RD Artist's controls, and their operation here.
Gibson RD bass guitars for sale
1977 Gibson RD Standard BASS Black
Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3590
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Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1977 Gibson RD Artist Standard Bass in its original Black finish. It has a great playing neck with great frets. It's all original and 100% complete along with the original hardshell case (missing handle and some damaged on the sides of the case). This RD Bass looks great with some nicks + dings (some are touched-up) and other cosmetic wear. The bass itself remains structurally sound with no cracks, breaks or ... more
1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass Sunburst
Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$4499