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Description

The Epiphone TB-90 is a beacon for bassists seeking versatility and rich, full-bodied tone. Crafted to cater both to the seasoned professional and the budding musician, this electric bass guitar offers a blend of classic design and modern innovation. Its TB-90 single-coil pickups are specifically designed to deliver a crisp, punchy sound that cuts through any mix, making it an ideal choice for both studio recordings and live performances. The sturdy construction and smooth playability ensure a reliable performance, whether you're laying down complex bass lines or holding down the groove.

With a comfortable neck profile and a fingerboard that allows for effortless navigation across frets, this bass guitar is as easy to play as it is to admire. Epiphone's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the TB-90, from its durable hardware to its flawless electronics. The solid body construction contributes to its excellent sustain and resonance, ensuring your notes ring out with clarity.

This bass guitar does not merely replicate the feel of vintage models but enhances it with modern touches that elevate your playing experience. Whether you’re exploring new genres or sticking to your roots, the Epiphone TB-90 offers the reliability and sound quality needed to inspire any musician.

Key Features:

  • TB-90 single-coil pickups for a dynamic and punchy sound
  • Comfortable neck profile for easy playability
  • Solid body construction for enhanced sustain and resonance
  • High-quality hardware and electronics
  • Ideal for both studio and live performance settings

Product specs

Brand Epiphone
Model TB-90
Year 1995 - 1998
Made In Japan
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Epiphone Thunderbird
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Epiphone TB-90 bass guitar?

The Epiphone TB-90 delivers a warm and punchy tone, thanks to its mahogany body and passive HH pickup configuration. It's well-suited for rock and blues genres, offering a rich low-end and clear mids.

Is the Epiphone TB-90 suitable for beginner bass players?

The Epiphone TB-90 is a good choice for beginners due to its comfortable double cutaway body and manageable 4-string setup. Its passive pickups provide a straightforward playing experience, making it ideal for those starting out.

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone TB-90?

The Epiphone TB-90 features a slim neck profile, crafted from mahogany, which offers smooth playability and easy access to all 20 frets, making it comfortable for both beginners and experienced players.

Does the Epiphone TB-90 have active electronics?

No, the Epiphone TB-90 does not have active electronics. It uses passive pickups, which contribute to its warm and classic bass tones without the need for a battery-powered preamp.

What colors are available for the Epiphone TB-90?

The Epiphone TB-90 is available in a range of colors including black, brown, and white, with a sunburst finish pattern, all featuring a glossy finish for a sleek appearance.

How does the Epiphone TB-90 compare to other basses in the Thunderbird series?

The Epiphone TB-90 offers a more vintage tone with its passive pickups compared to other Thunderbird models with active electronics. Its mahogany construction and double cutaway design provide a classic look and sound.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone TB-90.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners commonly upgrade the bridge after their first string change, opting for alternatives like the Hipshot Supertone for improved playability.

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  • Owners recommend replacing the stock bridge with a Hipshot Supertone for improved stability and intonation.

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Use cases and applications

  • Fans of the matte black goth finish on the TBird Vintage Pro liken it to the quality of the goth Explorer, hinting at its appeal for players with similar aesthetic preferences.

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  • The Thunderbird is noted to handle low tunings well with some bridge and truss rod adjustments, making it versatile for different genres.

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  • The Thunderbird is described as particularly suited for rock music, offering a massive low end and punchy mids.

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User experience

  • The Vintage Pro’s pickups are praised for being incredible, though some wish they were more aggressive for certain playing styles.

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  • Owners find the TBird Vintage Pro's neck more comfortable and less cumbersome compared to the TBird Pro-IV, making it more enjoyable to play.

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  • A suede underside strap can significantly reduce neck dive, providing a more stable playing position.

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  • Thunderbird basses are frequently noted for neck dive; solutions include using a wide padded leather strap or repositioning the strap button.

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Comparisons

  • Users transitioning from a P-Bass to the Thunderbird Vintage Pro appreciate its distinct sound and find it less of a chore to play.

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  • The Epiphone Embassy is frequently mentioned as a more balanced alternative, with the same electronics but better ergonomics.

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  • Several users compare the Thunderbird's sound favorably to a P bass, stating it offers a uniquely deep and growly tone.

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Features and functionality

  • The massive headstock on the Vintage Pro model contributes to neck dive but is manageable if accustomed to larger instruments like the Explorer.

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  • The Thunderbird's slim neck profile is praised for its playability, but it's noted that the instrument can be cumbersome due to its large body size.

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Value and pricing

  • The Vintage Pro model is favored for its authenticity in capturing the Gibson Thunderbird vibe, with superior pickups compared to other models.

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Build quality

  • The Epiphone Thunderbird Pro features a high mass bridge, which is noted to be more stable than the standard three-point bridge.

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  • The thick poly finish can be brittle, leading to chips and dents more easily than expected.

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  • The Vintage Pro model is highlighted for its lighter weight and clearer, dynamic pickups compared to the Pro IV's black soapbars.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Users report the Thunderbird's neck can become uncomfortable during extended play, suggesting a need for regular adjustments to the strap and playing posture.

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