Early Thunderbird models were built with a nine-ply neck-through-body design with mahogany wings, marking the first use of neck-through construction on a Gibson bass. It was also the first Gibson bass to feature a long 34” scale length, departing from the shorter 30.5” scale used previously. Today, Gibson honors that heritage with a new Thunderbird Bass that blends the spirit of the original with modern craftsmanship and performance.
The instrument features a solid mahogany body in the classic Reverse shape, complete with the raised center section that evokes the look of the early neck-through design. A glued-in, set mahogany neck with a fast SlimTaper profile offers exceptional comfort and playability, while the updated Non-Reverse style headstock makes tuning intuitive and familiar for today’s players. Modern hardware upgrades include Hipshot Ultralite Mini Clover tuners for precise tuning and improved balance, along with a Hipshot Supertone bridge that provides full intonation control and adjustable action height.
True to its name, the Thunderbird delivers powerful, thunderous low end thanks to its two EB Bass Humbucker™ pickups. These high-output pickups offer deep punch, clarity, and dynamic range, with independent volume controls that allow players to blend tones effortlessly. A master tone control provides additional shaping, giving the bass a wide sonic palette suited for any genre or playing style. The instrument is completed with the Thunderbird’s signature 3-ply white pickguard, proudly displaying the iconic Thunderbird logo.
Each Thunderbird Bass ships with a Gibson hardshell case, ensuring reliable protection for touring musicians, studio professionals, and collectors alike. With its unmistakable style, modern enhancements, and legendary tone, the new Gibson Thunderbird Bass in Ebony and Tobacco Burst Perimeter is ready to take its place on stages and in studios around the world.
Designed by renowned automotive designer Ray Dietrich—who also created the Gibson Firebird—the bass featured a bold, curvaceous, and asymmetrical body shape that was groundbreaking at the time and remains instantly recognizable today.
Thunderbird
Electric Bass with Mahogany Body, Mahogany Neck, Rosewood Fingerboard, and 2 Humbucking Pickups - Tobacco Sunburst Perimeter
