Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,269

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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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

What kind of sound can I expect from the Gibson IV Bass's TB Plus ceramic magnet humbuckers?

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.

Is the Gibson IV Bass suitable for beginners or more advanced players?

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.

How does the neck-through design of the Gibson IV Bass affect its playability and tone?

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.

What are the key features of the Gibson IV Bass's hardware?

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.

How does the mahogany body and neck of the Gibson IV Bass influence its sound?

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.

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Gibson IV: All Thunder, No Bird // GIBSON A GO GO

Video thumbnail for Gibson IV: All Thunder, No Bird // GIBSON A GO GO by The Bass Channel

Gibson IV: All Thunder, No Bird // GIBSON A GO GO

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

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

  • The Hipshot Supertone bridge is recommended to mitigate neck dive and allows adjustable saddles for height and lateral movement, unlike the standard Gibson bridge.

    Source
  • 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

  • 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

  • Owners report a natural evolution of bass-holding posture to counteract neck dive over time.

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  • Some owners have adapted to neck dive issues by using a wide strap or other solutions like weights and friction-enhancing materials under clothing.

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Comparisons

  • 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

  • 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

  • Issues with the three-point bridge include saddles falling out during string changes, necessitating caution and preparation.

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Features and functionality

  • Gibson Thunderbirds are known for their unique growl, substantial bottom end, and significant top-end presence, making them suitable for cutting through a mix.

    Source

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