Pricing and availability

Average Price: $710

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV is an electric bass that merges classic design with modern performance. Known for its distinctive shape and robust sound, this bass guitar is a favorite among musicians seeking both style and substance. The Gibson TB Plus™ humbuckers deliver a powerful and warm tone, perfect for diverse genres from rock to funk. Its mahogany body and bolt-on neck offer durability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for both studio sessions and live gigs.

This model stays true to its roots with a non-reverse body shape that not only stands out visually but also ensures a balanced feel. The rosewood fretboard provides a smooth playing surface, while the fully adjustable bridge allows for precise intonation adjustments. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned bassist, the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV offers exceptional playability and sound quality.

Key Features:

  • Gibson TB Plus™ humbuckers for powerful, warm tone
  • Non-reverse body shape for balanced playing feel
  • Mahogany body with bolt-on neck
  • Rosewood fretboard for smooth playability
  • Fully adjustable bridge for precise intonation adjustments
  • 34" scale length for standard bass performance
  • 20 medium jumbo frets for comfortable fretting

Product specs

Brand Epiphone
Model Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV
Finish Alpine White, Frost Blue, Red, Seafoam Green, Vintage Sunburst
Year 1995 - 1998
Made In Korea, Republic of
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Alder
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Blue, Brown, Green, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Epiphone Thunderbird
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.65"
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV bass?

The Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV delivers a powerful and punchy tone, ideal for rock and blues genres, thanks to its dual humbucking pickups. The passive electronics provide a warm, vintage sound profile.

Is the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV is suitable for beginners. Its ergonomic design and balanced weight make it comfortable to play, while the 34" scale length and 20 frets offer easy access for learning bass techniques.

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV?

The Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV features a 1960s style rounded neck profile, providing a comfortable grip for players of all skill levels. This neck shape is conducive to smooth playability and easy access to upper frets.

Does the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV have active or passive pickups?

The Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV is equipped with passive pickups. This configuration offers a classic and warm tone, perfect for players seeking a traditional bass sound without the need for a battery-powered preamp.

What materials are used in the construction of the Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV?

The Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV features an alder body and a maple neck, with a rosewood fretboard. These materials contribute to its robust sound and sustain, making it a versatile choice for various musical styles.

GUITARGUITAR

GUITARGUITAR

Epiphone Thunderbird IV

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Thunderbird IV by GUITARGUITAR

Epiphone Thunderbird IV

GUITARGUITAR

GUITARGUITAR

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Thunderbird IV - Rimmers Music | Demonstration & Tones by Rimmers Music

Epiphone Thunderbird IV - Rimmers Music | Demonstration & Tones

Rimmers Music

Rimmers Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV.

Comparisons

  • An Epiphone Flying V was noted to have more mids and growl compared to the Thunderbird, which sounded flatter by comparison.

    Source
  • The Epiphone Embassy offers similar sound to the Thunderbird but at a lower price, with a more traditional body style.

    Source

User experience

  • Users with longer arms find the body shape comfortable, suggesting it may be better suited for players with a similar physique.

    Source
  • The sustain is noted to be superior compared to other basses like the Squier Precision and Fender CIJ Jaguar, providing a distinct tonal character.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Thunderbird's scale length can tire wrists quickly, contrasting with the easier reach of Fender P basses.

    Source
  • Several users find the neck's chunky feel cumbersome, likening it to a baseball bat, which affects playability especially for those transitioning from slimmer necks.

    Source
  • Owners describe the Epiphone Thunderbird as heavy, affecting playability, compared to lighter basses like the Yamaha TRBX605.

    Source

Build quality

  • The graphic on the pickguard resembles a Celtic cross, which some owners find concerning due to its association with controversial symbolism.

    Source
  • Some owners find the bridge complex and prone to failure, especially when losing its anchor and being pulled out.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Some users appreciate the matte black finish for its aesthetic appeal, while others remove the pickguard to enhance the visual simplicity.

    Source
  • The neck-through construction with chrome cover alnico pickups provides Fender-like depth with extra punch and grit.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners have reported fret buzz issues; one suggests the bridge system height adjustment is particularly problematic, impacting playability.

    Source
  • High action noted; difficult to adjust due to inherent bridge design limitations. Some users find string/bridge height too high from the body.

    Source
  • Owners recommend using a wide strap to mitigate neck dive and opting for lower gauge strings to avoid finger strain.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Sanding the neck to remove gloss can enhance comfort, making the bass easier to handle during extended play sessions.

    Source
  • Some owners recommend relocating the strap button for better balance, specifically to the neck/body junction to reduce neck dive.

    Source
  • Users report upgrading the bridge and tuners significantly enhances the playability and reliability of the Epiphone Thunderbird.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Described as excelling with fuzz pedals due to its mid-range punch, making it effective in cutting through mixes.

    Source
  • Ideal for grunge rock bands; reconfiguring to a 5-string setup is possible for heavier sound applications.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nikki Sixx uses Epiphone Non-Reverse Thunderbird-IV

Nikki Sixx

Singer, Bassist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via YouTube

Footage shows nikki sixx playing a solo on the bass and later on destroys it on stage

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Epiphone Electric Basses

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides