Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $430
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Epiphone Thunderbird Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the groove with the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass, a powerhouse that blends iconic design with dynamic sound. Drawing from the legendary Firebird guitar, this bass guitar features a bold, offset body that turns heads and delivers a playability that's as smooth as its looks. The Thunderbird is equipped with two bass-calibrated humbuckers, offering a rich, full-bodied sound that's perfect for any genre, from funk to hard rock. Whether you're a seasoned player or a budding bassist, this instrument offers an exceptional balance of quality and affordability.
The Thunderbird's construction ensures a comfortable experience for players of all levels. Its mahogany body and neck-through design provide superior sustain and tone, while the rosewood fingerboard offers a silky touch for your fingers to glide over. The Goth edition also adds a touch of mystery with its sleek, dark aesthetic for those who prefer a more dramatic stage presence.
With the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass, you're not just playing an instrument—you're making a statement. Whether you're jamming in your garage or performing in front of an audience, this bass is your ticket to a memorable musical journey.
Key Features:
- Iconic offset body inspired by the Gibson Firebird
- Two bass-calibrated humbuckers for versatile sound
- Mahogany body and neck-through construction for enhanced sustain
- Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
- Available in standard and Goth editions for varied aesthetics
Product specs
| Brand | Epiphone |
| Model | Thunderbird IV, Thunderbird-IV |
| Finish | Alpine White, Ebony, Metallic Red, Natural Satin, Pelham Blue, Silverburst, TV Silver, Vintage Sunburst |
| Year | 1999 - 2020 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | 4-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Alder |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Red, Silver, Tan, White |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss, Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Epiphone Thunderbird |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What kind of pickups does the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass have?
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is equipped with two TB-Plus humbuckers, providing a powerful and punchy sound suitable for rock and other genres.
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Is the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward controls and comfortable playability, making it easy to learn and play.
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What is the neck profile like on the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass?
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass features a slim maple neck, which offers a smooth playing experience and allows for fast fretboard navigation.
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How does the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass handle different music genres?
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass is versatile, with its TB-Plus humbuckers delivering a deep, rich tone that suits rock, metal, and other music styles effectively.
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What is the scale length of the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass?
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass has a 34" scale length, which is standard for most bass guitars, offering a balanced feel and sound across the fretboard.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Epiphone Thunderbird Bass?
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass features an alder body (mahogany for Silverburst finish), a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard, providing durability and a classic tone.
Videos
Reverb
Epiphone Thunderbird Bass | Reverb Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers massive and beefy tones ideal for heavy rock and sludge/doom
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Sturdy build; survives drops with minimal damage
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Neck-through-body design enhances sustain and playability
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Loud output that pairs well with pedals
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Aesthetic appeal; frequently garners compliments for its cool look
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Offers a cost-effective alternative to higher-end Gibson models
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Easy to play with responsive action
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Perfectly set up out of the box
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Not overly heavy, making it more comfortable to handle
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Great for rock genres, especially heavier styles
CONS
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Uncomfortable arm position can lead to discomfort during long sessions
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Quality control issues like high frets can occur
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Limited versatility; best suited for specific music styles
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Thunderbird Bass.
Setup and maintenance
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The triangle bridge is described as temperamental, requiring multiple professionals to achieve satisfactory setup, particularly with intonation above the 13th fret.
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Users recommend upgrading from the factory 3-point bridge due to its complex setup issues, which can frustrate adjustments for action and intonation.
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User experience
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Neck dive is a common issue, often exacerbated by the asymmetrical body design. A heavy leather strap is recommended to counterbalance this.
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Some owners report the bass occasionally forward-flipping over the player's body, hindering visibility of the fretboard.
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Some players find the Thunderbird's weight beneficial if they're accustomed to heavier instruments or weight training, which offsets common complaints about its bulk.
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Some players modify their Thunderbird by removing frets and applying a satin finish for a smoother jazz bass feel with flatwound strings.
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The Thunderbird is noted for its striking appearance, which some owners find appealing despite its ergonomic challenges.
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Standing play can be particularly challenging due to the bass flipping forward, prompting some players to always bring their own strap for stability testing.
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Use cases and applications
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The bass is noted for a distinctive aggressive tone, favored for hard rock applications.
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The Thunderbird excels as a secondary bass for aggressive, low-slung 8th note playing, particularly with a pick.
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The Thunderbird's tone is linked to Paul D'Amour’s sound on TOOL's "Prison Sex," while its comparison to the Stingray ties to Justin Chancellor's Ænima era.
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Comparisons
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The Epiphone Thunderbird's tone is compared to a Warwick for TOOL-like sounds, though Warwick is suggested for a closer match to Wal basses.
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The Epiphone Embassy is frequently mentioned as a preferable alternative due to similar electronics but with improved ergonomics and balance, particularly when seated.
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The Music Man SUB4 is highlighted for its lighter weight and greater versatility compared to the Thunderbird.
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Features and functionality
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The pickups are considered dark, necessitating frequent string changes to maintain brightness and clarity.
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4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 10 Ratings
305
pretty good
the bass itself is really good, but can be hard to play sitting down due to its shape and does tend to nosedive when you let go of the neck, incredibly versatile and affordable
I FING LOVE IT
I use it all the time, and I love it. It's a great rock bass. It's not the most versatile, but if you wanna play heavier rock and roll this is the bass for you.
Artist usage
Add artist
In a user-uploaded photo, Jared Leto is pictured playing an Epiphone Thunderbird Bass.
In the provided image, Tommy Stinson is clearly seen playing an Epiphone Thunderbird Bass.
Album Usage
The Epiphone Thunderbird Bass has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Community setups
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