Epiphone Thunderbird Basses

Welcome to our latest product review, where we’re diving into the world of music instruments to explore the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass. This captivating bass guitar has a unique charm that appeals to both amateur and professional musicians alike. So, if you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and distinctively styled bass to elevate your musical performance, this review is for you. Let’s delve into its features, sound quality, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision.

The Top 10 Best Epiphone Thunderbird Basses

1. Get a Grip with Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass — Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass Ebony: A signature 9-ply neck-through-body mahogany and walnut bass, capturing Rex Brown’s iconic tone, with gold die-cast tuners, ProBucker 760 pickups, and a hardshell case.
2. Epiphone Pro-IV Vintage Sunburst Bass Guitar — Experience the perfect blend of vintage sound and modern design with the Epiphone Thunderbird Pro-IV Bass, featuring through-body construction, T-Pro humbucking pickups, and custom active electronics for an unforgettable playing experience.
3. Epiphone Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass — Alpine White — Step back in time with the Epiphone Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass, featuring a classic 60s era Thunderbird profile, mahogany body, and powerful Gibson TB Plus humbuckers.
4. Epiphone Thunderbird IV Vintage Sunburst Electric Bass — Experience the iconic Epiphone Thunderbird IV Bass, with its vintage sunburst design, excellent sound quality, and comfortable play, making it a top choice for bassists seeking a well-crafted and durable instrument.
5. Vintage Epiphone Thunderbird Bass with Gorgeous Ebony Finish — The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass Vintage Pro in Ebony combines style, sound, and durability at an affordable price, standing out as an iconic, vintage-inspired bass guitar with amazing pickups, excellent neck design, and a sturdy hardshell case.
6. Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV Bass Guitar with Mahogany Body and Rosewood Fretboard — Epiphone Thunderbird IV Goth Bass: A sleek and powerful guitar with a mahogany body, hard maple bolt-on neck, and versatile pickups, perfect for bass enthusiasts seeking comfort and distinctive sound.
7. Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro Bass Guitar — The Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro Bass — Tobacco Sunburst offers a sleek design, iconic 60s construction, and powerful low-end tones, making it the ultimate choice for bass players seeking a versatile and durable instrument.
8. Epiphone Thunderbird-IV Vintage Sunburst Bass Guitar — Epiphone Thunderbird-IV Bass Guitar — Vintage Sunburst: Striking looks, unbeatable playability, and an incredible range of tonality make this lightweight, comfortable, and well-made bass guitar the ultimate choice for any musician.
9. Epiphone Thunderbird Bass Guitar Case — Stylish Protection — Protect your Thunderbird Bass guitar in style and sturdiness with Epiphone’s robust hard case, featuring tolex covering, plush lining, and heavy-duty hinges for ultimate protection and portability.
10. Epiphone Thunderbird ’64 Purple Sparkle Bass Guitar — Vintage Look and Sound — Experience the iconic vintage vibes of the Epiphone Thunderbird ’64 with its nine-ply Mahogany/Walnut neck-through body, Indian Laurel fingerboard, ProBucker 760 Bass humbucker pickups, and signature Purple Sparkle finish.

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Reviews

Get a Grip with Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass

There’s just something about the Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass that gets under your skin from the moment you unbox it. The first thing that strikes you is the deep, lustrous ebony finish, with a matching headstock that makes you want to dive into a world of low-end frequencies.

Right off the bat, the 9-ply neck-through-body mahogany and walnut neck feels like a natural extension of your body, with a C-Shape profile that’s familiar yet comfortable. The mahogany body wings exude a sense of solidity, like you’re ready to go to war with this axe.

As you crank up the volume controls, the ProBucker 760 bass pickups come alive, capturing the thunderous tone Rex Brown made his own. They’re nickel-plated, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise gold hardware.

While the passive electronics won’t have you breaking the sound barrier, they serve their purpose well, providing a smooth, controlled response. The CTS pots add a touch of sophistication to the mix.

One feature that stands out is the gold die-cast tuners with mini clover buttons. They’re sturdy and reliable, ensuring your strings stay in place when you’re playing hard and fast.

Yet, the Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass isn’t perfect. The 20-fret, dot inlays on the Indian Laurel fingerboard can be a bit too subtle for some, and the 34-inch scale length might be a bit of a stretch for beginners.

Nevertheless, despite the minor cons, this Thunderbird bass is a beast in its own right. It’s the kind of instrument that demands your attention and respect, ready to shake the foundations of any venue you dare to take it to.

Epiphone Pro-IV Vintage Sunburst Bass Guitar

The Epiphone Thunderbird Pro-IV bass is a powerful and eye-catching instrument that I’ve been using for a few weeks now. Its vintage sunburst finish is simply stunning and draws attention wherever you go. One of the standout features for me is the 7-piece walnut/maple neck, which provides excellent sustain and tone. The active electronics and EQ really shine through when you’re trying to dial in your ideal sound.

However, there’s one aspect that I was initially concerned about — the hum. Having read some reviews about the bass’ hum, I was worried that it might interfere with my playing. But, after some trial and error, I’ve come to appreciate this feature. The bass’ hum is a signature characteristic of the Thunderbird series, and once you get used to it, it adds to the overall experience.

When it comes to playing, the Thunderbird Pro-IV feels very comfortable, thanks to its slimtaper neck design. It’s both agile and responsive, allowing me to navigate the frets with ease. The only minor downside is the case — while it’s a useful addition, it’s not the most sturdy one I’ve encountered.

All in all, I’m quite impressed with the Epiphone Thunderbird Pro-IV bass. It’s a solid, attractive instrument that offers a unique playing experience. If you’re a bassist looking to stand out from the crowd, this could be the perfect choice for you.

Epiphone Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass — Alpine White

The Epiphone Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass is a modern twist on the classic Thunderbird design, offering a perfect blend of vintage mojo and cutting-edge features. With its Alpine White finish and classic 3-point adjustable bridge, this bass guitar captures the essence of the original Thunderbird, which powered some of the most iconic artists in rock’s history.

The Thunderbird IV boasts Gibson TB Plus humbuckers with ceramic magnets, delivering a powerful and rich sound perfect for a variety of music genres. Its mahogany body and 7-ply mahogany/walnut neck ensure a solid and durable build, while the rosewood fingerboard with pearloid dot inlays provides a comfortable and responsive playing experience.

Though some users may find the long neck and oversized headstock a bit challenging, the Epiphone Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass is praised for its attractive design, good sound quality, and comfortable playability. Combined with its lifetime guarantee and various accessory options, the Thunderbird Classic IV Pro Electric Bass is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality electric bass guitar with a touch of vintage charm.

Epiphone Thunderbird IV Vintage Sunburst Electric Bass

Recently, I got my hands on the Epiphone Thunderbird IV Electric Bass, and I must say, it’s a beast. The vintage sunburst finish looks stunning, and the mahogany body gives it a substantial yet lightweight feel. As a bassist, playing with a heavy instrument is essential for the tone and resonance, and the Thunderbird IV does not disappoint.

What sets this bass apart is its unique pickup configuration. Instead of having a pickup near the neck, Epiphone gives us essentially middle and bridge pickups. This makes it incredibly versatile for various bass tones, from growling to funky punch. The separate volume controls for each pickup and the single tone knob allow for fine-tuning the sound, which is essential for any bassist.

One of the aspects I appreciate the most is the Thunderbird IV’s comfort. The C-profile neck is not too wide, making it ideal for my hand size, and the fingerboard feels smooth, with dot inlays for precise playing. The ergonomic body design makes it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

However, there’s one aspect I found a bit disappointing. As a left-handed player, I had to switch the bridge and bass pickups, which wasn’t a major issue but could have been avoided with a properly setup bass.

Overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird IV Electric Bass is an excellent choice for bassists seeking a unique sound and aesthetic. With a strong focus on comfort and versatility, it is an instrument that can satisfy the needs of both beginners and professionals. I highly recommend it as a reliable and enjoyable bass in your collection.

Vintage Epiphone Thunderbird Bass with Gorgeous Ebony Finish

The Thunderbird Bass Vintage Pro by Epiphone is a classic, boasting an all-ebony finish, meaty and aggressive “ProBucker” pickups, and a 7-piece Walnut/Mahogany neck through design. It offers vibe, sound, and value all at an incredible price point, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned musicians and those just starting their journey. This bass, with its unique 60s rounded body shape, comes in near-new condition, with the protective plastic still intact on the pickguard and control plate.

The tone, action, and intonation are all impressively up to standard right out of the box, although some slight wear might be noticeable on the bridge and tuners, which only adds to its vintage appeal. The offset design, combined with the 34-inch scale length, makes it a comfortable and lightweight instrument to play. Plus, the bass comes complete with the original Epiphone hardshell case, weighting at a manageable 8.6 lbs.

Its versatility, durability, and timeless design make it a favorite choice among users, making it a standout in the bass guitar market.

Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV Bass Guitar with Mahogany Body and Rosewood Fretboard

As a bass guitar enthusiast, having an Epiphone Thunderbird IV Goth Bass by my side has definitely added a unique and attractive touch to my performances. One of the most eye-catching features of this instrument is its sleek black hardware and glossy pitch black finish, creating a gothic, dark presence on stage. Not only is its appearance captivating, but the bass also delivers impressive sound quality, making it a perfect choice for heavy rock genres.

The classic Thunderbird design is faithfully executed with a mahogany body and a 34-inch scale hard maple neck. The rosewood fretboard and Gothic inlay at the 12th fret give this bass an unmistakably distinctive look, making it really stand out from other basses in my collection. The neck, in particular, felt comfortable to play, although some users have noted a slight lack of durability.

Mahogany body, 34-inch scale hard maple neck and rosewood fretboard. The Gothic inlay at the 12th fret adds a unique touch, while the black-on-black hardware and satin black finish complement it perfectly. The bass also comes with two Thunderbird plus pickups for a punchy, growling tone.

However, there is one downside to this otherwise wonderful instrument — the balance leaves a little to be desired, as the neck tends to dive when standing to play. Nevertheless, for those looking for a bass that stands out visually and delivers strong tones, the Epiphone Thunderbird IV Goth Bass makes for a worthy investment.

Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro Bass Guitar

The Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage PRO is a bold and powerful 4-string bass, perfect for those who crave a distinctive look and deep, resonant low-end tones. With its iconic 60s rounded Mahogany body and Mahogany/Walnut laminate neck, this bass boasts classic through-neck construction for both comfort and versatility.

The bass humbuckers deliver rich, full-bodied sound, while the ProBucker Bass #760 Humbucker in the bridge and the tune-o-matic bridge and claw tailpiece provide iconic style and superior performance. Additionally, the adjustable truss rod ensures proper setup, making this Thunderbird an excellent choice for players of all skill levels.

Although some users have reported minor issues with the finish and a slight neck dive, overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage PRO delivers impressive value and sound quality, making it a standout bass in the market.

Epiphone Thunderbird-IV Vintage Sunburst Bass Guitar

When I first got my hands on the Epiphone Thunderbird IV bass, I must admit, I was taken aback by its sheer heft. Its distinctive mahogany body and fast 34"-scale neck felt like a sledgehammer, but once I started playing, it became apparent that this was no ordinary bass.

The two well-placed pickups provided plenty of volume and tonality, ranging from thick to punchy. The combination of striking looks and unbeatable playability made it a delight to hold down the bottom end onstage. Despite the substantial body shape, the bass was surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to use.

One of the highlights of the Epiphone Thunderbird IV bass is its durability. It’s a well-made instrument that has stood the test of time, both in terms of its construction and the way it sounds. Its ability to stay in tune, even after hours of practice, is a testament to its high-quality craftsmanship.

However, there were a couple of downsides as well. The long body length meant that it was a bit awkward to fit into some gig bags, and the offset body design could be a bit of a drawback for those who prefer a more traditional bass design.

Overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird IV bass is an attractive and high-performing instrument that provides great value for money. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and durable bass guitar that doesn’t break the bank.

Epiphone Thunderbird Bass Guitar Case — Stylish Protection

Introducing the Epiphone Thunderbird Hard Case, the perfect companion for your Thunderbird bass guitar. This stylish case not only protects your instrument but also showcases the goth black design featuring the iconic gold Epiphone logo. The rugged exterior, made from tolex, offers ample protection from bumps, knocks, and scratches, while the heavy-duty handle makes it easy to transport.

Inside the case, you’ll find a padded, plush lining that cradles your bass securely in place. The generous interior dimensions accommodate both 4- and 5-string Thunderbird bass guitars, ensuring a snug fit for all models. This rectangular case also boasts an internal storage compartment where you can safely stow additional accessories.

Designed for optimal convenience, the Epiphone Thunderbird Hard Case has been meticulously crafted to offer both durability and design comfort. The convenient portability of this case ensures that you can easily transport your bass from gig to practice, and the sturdy construction guarantees that your precious instrument remains unharmed during transit. So, whether you’re traveling on tour or simply storing your bass at home, this hardshell case is an essential purchase for any serious guitarist.

Epiphone Thunderbird ’64 Purple Sparkle Bass Guitar — Vintage Look and Sound

The Epiphone Exclusive Thunderbird ’64 Purple Sparkle Bass Guitar is an ode to the vintage Gibson T-Bird basses of yesteryear, with its iconic shape designed by automotive legend Ray Dietrich and its sustain-enhancing nine-ply mahogany and walnut neck-through-body construction. This bass guitar wows with an Indian laurel fingerboard, ProBucker 760 Bass Humbucker pickups, and Clover-button tuners with a 19:1 gear ratio.

The Epiphone Thunderbird ’64 comes with a premium gig bag, making it a perfect choice for bass players who value vintage vibes at an accessible price. Whether you’re rocking out with a band or just enjoying the sweet sound of a classic, reliable bass guitar, this Epiphone Thunderbird ’64 Purple Sparkle Bass Guitar is sure to deliver.

Buyer’s Guide

Whether you’re a seasoned bass player or just starting out, selecting the right Epiphone Thunderbird bass can be a daunting task. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll cover essential features to focus on, considerations to make when buying, and general advice to ensure you find the perfect Epiphone Thunderbird bass for your needs.

Important Features to Consider

Here are some important features to look for in an Epiphone Thunderbird bass, ensuring you get the best value for your money and find the right instrument to suit your playing style and preferences. Remember, some basses may excel at certain features while lacking in others, so prioritize the most critical features for you.

Construction and Quality

Pay attention to the build quality and construction details, such as the type of wood used, the neck joint, and the hardware components. A solid, well-built bass tends to offer a more pleasant playing experience, improved sustain, and better sustainability over time. Consider options with Mahogany and Walnut bodies, which offer a warm tone and exceptional durability.

Tone and Sound

The tone and sound of a bass are crucial factors when choosing an Epiphone Thunderbird. Consider the basswood body, which gives the Thunderbird its signature punchy, bright tone. Additionally, pay attention to the pickups, their positioning, and the number of strings. Active electronics provide a more consistent sound, while passive electronics deliver a more natural, organic tone. The type and gauge of strings also impact the overall sound of the bass.

Players’ Comfort and Ergonomics

Don’t overlook the importance of comfort and ergonomics in your bass of choice. An Epiphone Thunderbird with a comfy neck profile, appropriate string action, and a balanced weight should be a joy to play. Tune to your preferences, ensuring a balanced set of strings and minimal buzz. Finally, consider the bass’s accessibility for a comfortable playing position, like an adjustable bridge or a cutaway at the top.

FAQ

What is the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass?

The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is a high-quality electric bass guitar designed by Epiphone, a well-known music instrument manufacturer. It is modeled after the classic Thunderbird Bass, which was first introduced in the 1960s. The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass offers a modern take on the classic design, providing players with a powerful, punchy, and versatile instrument for various music styles.

It features a solid mahogany body, a 5-piece mahogany/maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets. The bass also comes with a pair of active humbucker pickups, providing a wide range of tonal options. Overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is a popular choice for bass players looking for a reliable and affordable electric bass guitar with a classic feel and modern features.

What sets the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass apart from other electric bass guitars?

The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass stands out from other electric bass guitars due to its unique combination of classic design and modern features. Its solid mahogany body and 5-piece mahogany/maple neck offer a classic feel and excellent sustain, while its pair of active humbucker pickups provide a wide range of tonal options suited for different music styles. This balance of traditional and contemporary elements makes the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass a popular choice among bass players.

Additionally, the bass guitar’s overall build quality and affordability contribute to its appeal. Many players find the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass to be an excellent option for those looking to explore different aspects of electric bass playing without breaking the bank. Its reliability, versatility, and distinctive appearance have also made it a favorite among bass enthusiasts and musicians worldwide.

What are the key features of the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass?

The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass boasts several key features that set it apart from other electric bass guitars. Here are some of the most notable features:

1. Solid Mahogany Body: The bass guitar’s body is made of mahogany, a tonewood known for its warm, rich sound and excellent sustain. 2) 5-Piece Mahogany/Maple Neck: The neck of the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is a combination of mahogany and maple, which adds strength and stability to the instrument. 3) Rosewood Fingerboard: The bass guitar features a rosewood fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets, providing players with a smooth, fast, and accurate playing experience. 4) Active Humbucker Pickups: The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass comes with a pair of active humbucker pickups that offer a wide range of tonal options, from warm and punchy to bright and snappy.

These features, along with the bass guitar’s overall build quality and affordability, make the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass an attractive option for bass players of all skill levels and music styles. Its blend of classic design and modern features ensures that it remains a popular and reliable choice in the world of electric bass guitars.

Which music genres is the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass suitable for?

The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is a versatile instrument that can accommodate various music genres. Its powerful, punchy tone and versatile pickups make it suitable for a wide range of styles, including rock, blues, jazz, country, and even some funk and soul music. The bass guitar’s classic design also gives it a distinctive sound that is well-suited for genres that emphasize a retro or vintage vibe, such as rockabilly and surf rock.

Overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is an excellent choice for players looking for a reliable and versatile electric bass guitar that can handle a diverse range of music genres. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, this bass guitar offers the tonal options and build quality needed to excel in your preferred style.

How does the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass compare to other bass guitars in its price range?

The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass stands out among other bass guitars in its price range due to its combination of classic design, modern features, and high-quality build. Its solid mahogany body, 5-piece mahogany/maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard provide a classic feel and excellent sustain, while its pair of active humbucker pickups offer a wide range of tonal options.

Additionally, the bass guitar’s affordable price point makes it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality instrument without breaking the bank. When compared to other bass guitars in its price range, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass offers a superior balance of features, reliability, and value, making it a top choice for many players.

Is the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass a good choice for beginners?

Yes, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is an excellent choice for beginners. Its affordable price, high-quality build, and versatile features make it a popular option for those new to playing electric bass. The bass guitar’s classic design and powerful tone are also well-suited for beginners looking for a reliable and reliable instrument that can grow with their skills and musical tastes.

Furthermore, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass offers a wide range of tonal options through its pair of active humbucker pickups, allowing beginners to explore various music styles and find their unique sound. Overall, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is a reliable and budget-friendly choice for anyone looking to begin their journey into the world of electric bass playing.

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