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Average Price: $3,850

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird, a legendary piece of musical history that continues to make waves in the bass guitar community. This electric bass is known for its distinctive shape and vintage Thunderbird pickups, delivering that iconic, thunderous tone that has captivated musicians for decades. The Bicentennial Thunderbird was crafted during a time when innovation met tradition, resulting in a bass that offers both exceptional playability and a nod to American craftsmanship.

This model features a neck-through-body construction, providing superior sustain and a smooth playing experience across the fretboard. The Bicentennial edition pays homage to the United States' 200th anniversary, making it a unique collectible for both players and enthusiasts. The Thunderbird's reverse body design not only sets it apart visually but also contributes to its balanced weight distribution, ensuring comfortable play even during extended sessions.

Whether you’re laying down the groove in a rock band or exploring jazz rhythms, the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird offers versatility and depth. Its solid mahogany body and neck create a warm, rich sound that blends seamlessly into any musical ensemble. This bass guitar is more than just an instrument—it's a piece of history that resonates with every note.

Key Features:

  • Vintage Thunderbird pickups for a powerful, iconic tone
  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Unique reverse body design for balanced weight distribution
  • Mahogany body and neck for a warm, rich sound
  • Limited Bicentennial edition, celebrating the USA's 200th anniversary

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Thunderbird Bicentennial
Finish Ebony, Natural, Tobacco Sunburst, White
Year 1976 - 1979
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Natural, White, Yellow
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What makes the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird unique among bass guitars?

The Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird features a neck-through construction, where the neck wood runs the entire length of the body, offering enhanced sustain and stability. Its distinctive design and passive pickups deliver a classic, powerful tone that appeals to both vintage enthusiasts and professional bassists.

How does the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird's pickup configuration affect its sound?

The Thunderbird's HH (humbucker-humbucker) pickup configuration provides a thick, warm tone with reduced noise, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres, from rock to jazz. This setup is known for its punchy lows and clear mids, offering a versatile sound palette.

Is the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird offers excellent sound and build quality, its historical significance and unique design make it more suitable for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate vintage instruments and can handle its heavier weight.

What are the finish options available for the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird?

The Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird is available in several finishes, including Ebony, Natural, Tobacco Sunburst, and White. Each finish offers a distinct aesthetic that complements the bass's classic design and appeal.

Does the Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird have any neck dive issues?

The Thunderbird's neck-through construction and balanced design help minimize neck dive, a common issue with some bass guitars. However, due to its weight, using a wide strap for added comfort is recommended during extended playing sessions.

Jonathan Grooms

Jonathan Grooms

1976 Gibson Thunderbird Bass Bicentennial

Video thumbnail for 1976 Gibson Thunderbird Bass Bicentennial by Jonathan Grooms

1976 Gibson Thunderbird Bass Bicentennial

Jonathan Grooms

Jonathan Grooms

Video thumbnail for 1976 Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbird Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

1976 Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbird Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1976 Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbirds | CME Vintage Demos | Mike Larsen by Chicago Music Exchange

1976 Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbirds | CME Vintage Demos | Mike Larsen

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

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Artist usage

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See how Nigel John Taylor uses Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird

Nigel John Taylor

Bassist

Duran Duran

...
Verified via Duran Duran

A list of John Taylor's gear compiled in 2003 by his guitar technician and another one taken by his old website trusttheprocess.com.

See how Ian Martin Allison uses Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird

Ian Martin Allison

Bassist, Composer

Soul Asylum

...
Verified via YouTube

In this Youtube video Ian plays through 10 different basses for the concept "10 classic basses you need to play before you die". The ninth one is his 76 Bicentennial Gibson Thunderbird in sunburst finish. He shows the classic Thunderbird sound for Sweet Emotion by Aerosmith, baseline by Tom Hamilton.

See how Jackie Fox uses Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird

Jackie Fox

Bassist

The Runaways

...
Verified via YouTube

Jackie is only seen with this Bicentennial Thunderbird in this performance, this is also the same bass Joan Jett uses to fill in for bass during the Tokyo Music Festival.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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