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
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Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3999
Very good condition 1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass. All original, outside of the removal of the Moog electronics. Original pickups sound MASSIVE and have tons of low end on tap. Really a special bass from Gibson that was not made that long. Original sunburst finish looks great on this specific bass. Some signs of play as pictured, but nothing crazy. All electronics have been tested to be working perfectly. Recently set up as well. Kept in a smoke free, pet free studio for recording purposes. Comes ...
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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 / ...
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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 ...
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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.
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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...
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