Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$2,499.00
Guitar Center
$2,499.00
Reverb
5.0 (20)
$1,750.00 9 available Used
Musician's Friend
$2,499.00
zZounds
$2,499.00
Thomann
$2,390.00 $2,299.00 $91.00 · All time low

Average Price: $2,341

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Thunderbird IV". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 30, 2026.

* 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 Gibson Thunderbird IV is a revered icon in the world of electric basses, seamlessly blending bold design with powerful sound. Originally introduced in 1963 and crafted by the famed automotive designer Ray Dietrich, the Thunderbird IV is recognizable for its distinctive zig-zag body design and headstock. This bass isn’t just about looks; it delivers a resonant and thunderous sound that commands attention, making it a favorite among bassists who crave both style and substance.

Constructed with a solid mahogany body and wings, the Thunderbird IV offers a rich and warm tonal quality that complements its sleek appearance. The 9-ply multi-laminate mahogany/walnut neck speaks to Gibson’s commitment to durability and playability, while the rosewood fingerboard ensures smooth navigation across its frets. Notably, the 12th fret is adorned with a special 120th-anniversary banner, a testament to Gibson's storied heritage.

This bass is equipped with T-Bird Plus pickups, which are engineered to deliver a robust and versatile sound, ready to tackle any genre. The black chrome hardware and 3-point adjustable bridge add both aesthetic appeal and functional precision, ensuring your performance is as sharp as your look. Whether you're laying down the groove in a studio session or bringing the heat on stage, the Thunderbird IV stands as a paragon of innovation and style.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body and wings
  • 9-ply multi-laminate mahogany/walnut neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 120th anniversary banner on the 12th fret
  • 34" scale length
  • T-Bird Plus pickups
  • Black chrome hardware
  • 3-point adjustable bridge

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Thunderbird IV
Finish Alpine White, Classic White, Ebony, Ebony Stain, Natural, Natural Burst, Vintage Sunburst
Year 1994 - 2014
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
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony, Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany, Walnut
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Thunderbird IV?

The Gibson Thunderbird IV features a slim neck profile with a 9-ply mahogany and walnut construction, offering comfortable playability and stability for both intricate bass lines and powerful riffs.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Gibson Thunderbird IV pickups?

The Gibson Thunderbird IV is equipped with T-Bird Plus pickups, which deliver a powerful and punchy tone with deep lows and clear highs, making it suitable for rock, metal, and other genres requiring a strong bass presence.

Is the Gibson Thunderbird IV suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Thunderbird IV offers professional-grade features, its playability and classic design can also appeal to dedicated beginners who are serious about learning bass guitar.

How does the Gibson Thunderbird IV handle neck dive?

The Gibson Thunderbird IV's neck-through construction and balanced design help minimize neck dive, providing a comfortable playing experience even during extended sessions.

What is the weight of the Gibson Thunderbird IV like?

The Gibson Thunderbird IV is known to be on the heavier side due to its solid mahogany construction, but its well-balanced design helps distribute the weight comfortably across the player's body.

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Gibson Thunderbird vs. Epiphone Thunderbird with Jayme Lewis

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird vs. Epiphone Thunderbird with Jayme Lewis by The Bass Channel

Gibson Thunderbird vs. Epiphone Thunderbird with Jayme Lewis

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gibson Thunderbird | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar by Chicago Music Exchange

1964 Gibson Thunderbird | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass by gibsonshopru

Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass

gibsonshopru

gibsonshopru

Video thumbnail for The Thunderbird is a very flawed bass by AMP

The Thunderbird is a very flawed bass

AMP

AMP

Video thumbnail for Fred Sablan Demos The New Gibson Thunderbird Bass by Gibson TV

Fred Sablan Demos The New Gibson Thunderbird Bass

Gibson TV

Gibson TV

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird Bass Demo by The Bass Channel

Gibson Thunderbird Bass Demo

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for GIBSON Thunderbird IV Vintage Sunburst by session

GIBSON Thunderbird IV Vintage Sunburst

session

session

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 2014 Electric Bass Guitar by Musician's Friend

Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 2014 Electric Bass Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for The Gibson Bass Range - Thunderbirds Are Go! by Andertons Music Co

The Gibson Bass Range - Thunderbirds Are Go!

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for How I Modified My Thunderbird to Play and Sound BETTER | GIBSON A GO GO by The Bass Channel

How I Modified My Thunderbird to Play and Sound BETTER | GIBSON A GO GO

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Greg Coates at Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Greg Coates at Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass Vintage Sunburst 1997 by Loud Lemon Demo

Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass Vintage Sunburst 1997

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass [Product Demonstration] by Long & McQuade Musical Instruments

Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass [Product Demonstration]

Long & McQuade Musical Instruments

Long & McQuade Musical Instruments

Video thumbnail for In DEFENSE of the GIBSON THUNDERBIRD BASS [Demo/Review] by BASSED.

In DEFENSE of the GIBSON THUNDERBIRD BASS [Demo/Review]

BASSED.

BASSED.

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass Tobacco Sunburst 1991 USA by Loud Lemon Demo

Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass Tobacco Sunburst 1991 USA

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Reviews

PROS

  • Surprisingly wide and deep tonal range

  • Comfortable, thin neck reminiscent of a jazz bass

  • Light-weight and not top-heavy

  • Excellent sustain and tone

  • Versatile with effect pedals like overdrive and fuzz

  • Distinctive classic Thunderbird design

  • Perfect strap position for taller players

  • Deep, focused lows and sweet highs

  • High definition, thick sound

  • Cool aesthetic with classic headstock

CONS

  • Stock pickups are notoriously noisy

  • Not as flexible as other basses for varied styles

  • Might be too long for some players

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The Thunderbird's massive headstock is prone to damage and tends to knock into objects during play.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend replacing the 3-point bridge with a Hipshot Supertone for better stability and playability.

    Source
  • The two-piece bridge on the Epiphone Thunderbird is preferred for stability and ease of restringing over Gibson's three-point bridge.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Its unique sound makes it ideal for rock genres, particularly when played with a pick, offering a growly, punchy tone.

    Source
  • A player in a Nirvana cover band is considering the Thunderbird IV for its aesthetic and tonal alignment with Krist Novoselic's sound, highlighting its role in grunge music.

    Source

User experience

  • Many owners report significant neck dive and suggest using a wide padded leather strap to mitigate the issue.

    Source
  • Owners note diverse experiences with neck dive, suggesting solutions like wide straps and friction enhancements, indicating adaptability to personal preference and setup.

    Source
  • A user mentions having played multiple basses with more severe neck dive than the Thunderbird, suggesting variations in personal perception of the issue.

    Source
  • Owners of the Epiphone Vintage Pro appreciate its balanced, versatile pickups, which offer a full low end with better definition than Gibson's ceramic pickups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Epiphone Vintage Pro is noted to have a brighter sound and better build quality than the Gibson original.

    Source
  • The Epiphone Thunderbird IV Vintage model is priced at $700, while the standard model is $470, indicating significant pricing differences that may affect decision-making for buyers.

    Source
  • The Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro is favored for its '63 looks, vintage specs, and lighter weight compared to the Pro IV model.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Thunderbird's narrow neck is appreciated by players with smaller hands, facilitating easier access to higher frets.

    Source
  • The Gibson Thunderbird is produced in batches due to low demand, and some years it may not be in their catalog.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Maintaining fresh strings is crucial as old strings result in a muddy tone; lighter gauge strings are recommended for better sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Epiphone models are often chosen over Gibson for their similar quality and significantly lower cost, appealing to those who want the look without the high price.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 52 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Great

i think its from the late 90s i traded somone a broken svt for it, the bass is sunburst and stock it has black hardware, great sound i enjoy the feel a lot too

Genres:
stevefishman

Great Japanese Thunderbird

Mine is actually an Epiphone brand made at Fujigen in Japan and its a really great T-Bird. I think better than the US made ones of the 80s and 90s. They were also sold under Orville and Greco. I had some vintage T bird pickups that I installed which I think are 1960s so it has balls. Love it!

J

Great bass, unique styling.

I go through phases where I'll play this one religiously and then put it down for weeks at a time. Dark, growling tone, not a ton of punch or cut.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tomo Milicevic uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Tomo Milicevic

Guitarist, Bassist

Thirty Seconds to Mars

...
Verified via Gstatic

Tomo Milicevic is seen playing a Gibson Thunderbird IV bass, as shown in the image sourced from Gstatic.

See how Andy Nicholson uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Andy Nicholson

Bassist, DJ

Arctic Monkeys

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture from the first ever Arctic Monkeys' gig at The Grapes, you can see Andy playing a black Thunderbird Bass

See how Suzi Quatro uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Suzi Quatro

Singer, Bassist

The Pleasure Seekers

...
Verified via YouTube

In the 1975 music video for "I May Be Too Young," Suzi Quatro is seen playing a Greco Thunderbird bass, identifiable by its bound neck and 2x2 tuner configuration, distinguishing it from the Gibson model. This particular bass features a Precision Bass pickup in the neck position and a Rickenbacker pickup at the bridge. Quatro has been known to use a Greco Thunderbird with Rickenbacker pickups in both positions, though it's unclear if she used the same instrument or a similarly modified one.

See how James McNew uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

James McNew

Singer, Guitarist

Yo La Tengo

...
Verified via BrooklynVegan

James has been playing what looks like a 2019 Thunderbird since at least 2020. He played it in both 2020 and 2021 Hanukkah shows. Brooklyn Vegan has photos from the Nov. 28, 2021 show.

See how Tom Angelripper uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Tom Angelripper

Singer, Bassist

Sodom

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video we can see Tom Angelripper playing a natural finish Gibson Thunderbird bass.

See how Kathleen Hanna uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Kathleen Hanna

Singer, Guitarist

Le Tigre

...
Verified via Photo

In a user-uploaded photo, Kathleen Hanna is clearly seen holding a Gibson Thunderbird IV (Sunburst duplicate) during a live performance.

See how Pavel Kozlov uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Pavel Kozlov

Bassist, Keyboardist

Molchat Doma

...
Verified via YouTube

Pavel can be seen playing this bass in this live performance here

See how Ville Valo uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Ville Valo

Singer, Drummer

HIM

...
Verified via Photo

Ville Valo is seen playing a Gibson Thunderbird IV bass in a user-uploaded photo.

See how Todd Kerns uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Todd Kerns

Singer, Guitarist

The Age of Electric

...
Verified via YouTube

Slash & the Conspirators performing Ace Of Spades as a tribute to Lemmy Kilmister 12/31/15. Featuring Todd Dammit Kerns on lead vocals/bass guitar, Slash on lead guitar, Myles Kennedy on rhythm guitar, Brent Fitz on drums and Frank Sidoris on rhythm guitar.

See how Fred Sablan uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Fred Sablan

Bassist, Composer

Deftones

...
Verified via YouTube

He carried on the tradition of Manson bassists using a Thunderbird

See how Nicky Wire uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Nicky Wire

Bassist

Manic Street Preachers

...
Verified via YouTube

This amazing artist can be seen in this stunning performance using a Gibson Thunderbird.

See how Mike D'Antonio uses Gibson Thunderbird IV

Mike D'Antonio

Bassist

Killswitch Engage

...
Verified via YouTube

Int the Music video for My Last Serinade, mike could be seen using a gibson thunderbird bass. this was his main bass during the early years of killswitch. he used this until getting endorsed by ibanez

Genre Usage

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

Used With

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

Community setups

Show yours
jo3_the_great

jo3_the_great

Gear IQ 140

leo_hastspark

leo_hastspark

Gear IQ 224

naturalbornvillianess

naturalbornvillianess

Gear IQ 2810

jo3_the_great

jo3_the_great

Gear IQ 140

jo3_the_great

jo3_the_great

Gear IQ 140

bradcutbush

bradcutbush

Gear IQ 145

iannash

iannash

Gear IQ 274

davidmcardoso

davidmcardoso

Gear IQ 128

5 alternative and related items for Gibson Thunderbird IV, curated by the Equipboard community.

Epiphone Thunderbird IV

$369.00 - $449.00

cheaper alternative

It's the Epiphone version of the bass and it is cheaper than the Gibson Thunderbird

Epiphone Thunderbird Pro-IV

$478.26

cheaper alternative

The pro versions of the epiphone Thunderbird are neck through and really great quality if you overlook the shockingly bad electronics

Orville Thunderbird

 

cheaper alternative

The Orville Thunderbird was made in Japan by Gibson and some people prefer them

Schecter Ultra Bass

$1,049.00

cheaper alternative

Kind of similar looking, a Schecter copy without infringing body shape legal issues

More Gibson Electric Basses

Gibson EB-3

$359.00 - $2,250.00

# 16

Rank

Josh Homme Billy Corgan Flea
108 artists using
Gibson SG Bass

$1,699.00 - $1,999.00

 
Lemmy Kilmister Tobacco Negative XP
10 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    modman
    modman

    Gear IQ 431