Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $2,269
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$400
$1001+
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Description
Unleash your sound with the Gibson IV Bass, a true icon that combines vintage flair with modern power. First making waves in the 1960s, this bass continues to set the standard with its thunderous bass output. The neck-through-body design, crafted from a robust 9-ply mahogany-and-walnut construction, ensures unparalleled sustain and resonance. The Gibson IV Bass is not just about looks; it's about delivering a performance that resonates with depth and clarity.
With its distinctive reverse body styling and TB Plus ceramic magnet humbuckers, this bass is designed for those who demand both style and substance. The mahogany wings add to its rugged charm, while the rosewood fretboard offers smooth playability that bassists crave. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Gibson IV Bass provides the versatility and tone that can adapt to any musical genre. Complete with black chrome hardware and a 3-way adjustable tailpiece, this instrument is as reliable as it is striking. Plus, it comes with a Gibson hardshell case to ensure your investment is well-protected.
Key Features:
- 9-ply mahogany-and-walnut neck-through-body design
- TB Plus ceramic magnet humbuckers
- 34" scale length
- Rosewood fretboard
- Black top-hat knobs with inserts
- Schaller tuners
- 3-way adjustable tailpiece
- Includes Gibson hardshell case
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | IV Bass |
| Year | 1987 - 1989 |
| 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 | Brown, Natural, Red, White |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Gibson IV Bass's TB Plus ceramic magnet humbuckers?
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The TB Plus ceramic magnet humbuckers in the Gibson IV Bass deliver a powerful and punchy tone, ideal for rock and other genres requiring a strong low-end presence. These pickups offer clarity and a full-bodied sound, making them versatile for various playing styles.
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Is the Gibson IV Bass suitable for beginners or more advanced players?
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The Gibson IV Bass is well-suited for intermediate to advanced players due to its high-quality construction and versatile tonal options. Its passive pickups and 9-ply neck-through design offer excellent sustain and playability, which may be more appreciated by experienced bassists.
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How does the neck-through design of the Gibson IV Bass affect its playability and tone?
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The neck-through design of the Gibson IV Bass enhances sustain and resonance, providing a smoother transition between notes. This construction also offers improved stability and access to higher frets, making it ideal for players seeking a seamless playing experience.
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What are the key features of the Gibson IV Bass's hardware?
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The Gibson IV Bass features black chrome hardware, Schaller tuners, and a 3-way adjustable tailpiece. These components contribute to reliable tuning stability and precise intonation, ensuring consistent performance during gigs and studio sessions.
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How does the mahogany body and neck of the Gibson IV Bass influence its sound?
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The mahogany body and neck of the Gibson IV Bass provide a warm, rich tone with a pronounced midrange. This wood combination enhances sustain and depth, making it a great choice for players looking for a bass with a classic, full-bodied sound.
Videos
The Bass Channel
Gibson IV: All Thunder, No Bird // GIBSON A GO GO
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson IV Bass.
Mods and upgrades
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The Hipshot Supertone bridge is recommended to mitigate neck dive and allows adjustable saddles for height and lateral movement, unlike the standard Gibson bridge.
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Babicz bridge is a popular replacement for the Gibson Thunderbird's stock bridge, praised for eliminating neck dive and improving setup ease.
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Build quality
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A 1999 Thunderbird's headstock crack repair involved fiberglass reinforcement and an opaque refinish, affecting the serial number visibility.
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User experience
Comparisons
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The Epiphone Thunderbird IV Vintage is priced at $700, while the standard version is available for $470, suggesting a potential trade-off in sound or build quality for budget-conscious buyers.
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The Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro is noted for its tone and price point, with some preferring it over Gibson models due to less thick finish and stock pickup quality.
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Use cases and applications
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The Thunderbird IV is being considered by a Nirvana cover band player aiming to replicate Krist Novoselic's sound and aesthetics, highlighting its appeal for grunge music enthusiasts.
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Players report that Gibson Thunderbirds deliver a very large sound for a passive bass, suitable for genres requiring pronounced tonal presence.
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Setup and maintenance
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Issues with the three-point bridge include saddles falling out during string changes, necessitating caution and preparation.
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