Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$2,199.00
Reverb
4.0 (6)
$2,037.65 New
$1,355.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$2,199.00
Gear4Music
£2,099.00

Average Price: $1,948

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 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

Embrace the rebellious spirit of the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass guitar, a reimagined classic for the modern bassist who dares to carve their own path. Originally making waves in 1965, this iconic instrument is back, offering a distinctive look and thunderous tone that commands attention both on stage and in the studio.

Crafted with a non-reverse mahogany body and neck, the Thunderbird delivers a warm resonance and sustain that bassists crave. Its Indian rosewood fingerboard, with 20 medium jumbo frets, ensures smooth playability, making it a joy for both intricate basslines and straightforward grooves. The unmistakable three-ply white pickguard, adorned with the legendary Thunderbird graphic, adds a touch of vintage flair to its bold design.

Equipped with two potent Thunderbird pickups, each featuring individual volume controls, you can easily dial in a wide range of tones—from growling lows to punchy mids. A master tone control offers further sonic shaping, ensuring your sound cuts through any mix. The Hipshot Ultralite tuners and 3-point adjustable bridge provide precise tuning stability and intonation, maintaining balance and comfort during extended play.

Available in eye-catching finishes like Inverness Green and Sparkling Burgundy, the Non-Reverse Thunderbird is not just a bass guitar; it's a statement piece. It comes complete with a hardshell case, ready to withstand the rigors of touring or studio sessions.

Key Features:

  • Non-reverse mahogany body and neck for rich tone and sustain
  • Indian rosewood fingerboard with 20 medium jumbo frets
  • Thunderbird rhythm and lead pickups with individual volume controls
  • 3-point adjustable bridge and Hipshot Ultralite tuners for precise intonation and tuning stability
  • Available in Inverness Green and Sparkling Burgundy
  • Includes hardshell case for protection

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Non-Reverse Thunderbird
Finish Ebony, Faded Pelham, Inverness Green, Sparkling Burgundy, Vintage Cherry
Year 2021 - 2025
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, Blue, Green, Red
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 12"
Frets Medium Jumbo
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass?

The Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass delivers a powerful, punchy tone with a rich low-end, thanks to its mahogany body and HH pickup configuration. It's well-suited for rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Is the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass is a high-quality instrument, its unique body shape and weight might be more comfortable for intermediate to advanced players familiar with bass guitar ergonomics.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass?

The Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass features a comfortable, medium C-shaped neck profile that offers a smooth playing experience, making it ideal for both fingerstyle and pick playing techniques.

Does the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse bass typically comes with a hardshell case to protect your instrument during transport and storage.

How does the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse compare to the Reverse Thunderbird model?

The Non-Reverse Thunderbird features a different body shape, offering a unique aesthetic and slightly different balance, while maintaining the signature Thunderbird tone and quality craftsmanship.

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird - Why Does Gibson Hate Bassists? - LowEndLobster Review

Video thumbnail for Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird - Why Does Gibson Hate Bassists? - LowEndLobster Review by LowEndLobster

Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird - Why Does Gibson Hate Bassists? - LowEndLobster Review

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Video thumbnail for Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse by gibsonshopru

Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

gibsonshopru

gibsonshopru

Video thumbnail for Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass - (Did Gibson give another manufacturer "the Bird"?) by MooreMusicGuitars

Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass - (Did Gibson give another manufacturer "the Bird"?)

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird | GIBSON A GO GO by The Bass Channel

Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird | GIBSON A GO GO

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass! - This Badass 60's Icon is Back & Better Than Ever! by PMTVUK

Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass! - This Badass 60's Icon is Back & Better Than Ever!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Revisited // GIBSON A GO GO by The Bass Channel

Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Revisited // GIBSON A GO GO

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for 2021 Gibson Nonreverse Thunderbird review #gibsonthunderbirdbass #gibsonbass #houseofguitars by hiwatt scott

2021 Gibson Nonreverse Thunderbird review #gibsonthunderbirdbass #gibsonbass #houseofguitars

hiwatt scott

hiwatt scott

Video thumbnail for 오혜성 (Hyesung Oh) - 1/2 l Gibson USA Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Demo by Music Force Official

오혜성 (Hyesung Oh) - 1/2 l Gibson USA Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Demo

Music Force Official

Music Force Official

Video thumbnail for 2021 Gibson Nonreverse Thunderbird in sparkling burgundy  #gibsonthunderbird by hiwatt scott

2021 Gibson Nonreverse Thunderbird in sparkling burgundy #gibsonthunderbird

hiwatt scott

hiwatt scott

Video thumbnail for Gibson NonReverse Thunderbird Upgrades and set up by Henry James Bass Player

Gibson NonReverse Thunderbird Upgrades and set up

Henry James Bass Player

Henry James Bass Player

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning faded Pelham blue color that ages beautifully over time

  • High-grade mahogany body provides excellent resonance and sustain

  • Comfortable neck with a round, ergonomic shape for fatigue-free playing

  • Versatile sound; excels clean and with distortion, suitable for multiple genres

  • Lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to handle during performances

  • Strong, deep low E string offers solid presence in the mix

  • Passive pickups deliver powerful, adjustable tones without needing batteries

  • Good craftsmanship with excellent fit and finish overall

CONS

  • Some units have sloppy finish work and hardware misalignment issues

  • Fretboard quality can be inconsistent, with occasional chipping

  • Some necks are perceived as too round and large, lacking inspiration

  • Issues with the truss rod maxing out, limiting setup adjustments

  • Instances of bridge and pickguard related hardware problems reported

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Owners report the Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse has no neck dive, making it more comfortable than many other basses.

    Source
  • A left-handed player found the right-handed version of the non-reverse model to be one of the most comfortable basses, indicating ergonomic design.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from a Gibson EB5 find the non-reverse Thunderbird's neck to feel narrow due to familiarity with chunkier necks.

    Source
  • Owners report that finding specific models, like the 5-string or black non-reverse Thunderbird, often involves international searches and quick purchasing decisions due to their scarcity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some players find the neck of the non-reverse model chunkier compared to P basses but grow accustomed to it with use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It performs exceptionally well in country music, surpassing the American P bass in sound quality according to some users.

    Source
  • New pickups in the non-reverse Thunderbird are highly praised, contributing to its suitability for various musical styles.

    Source
  • The non-reverse version is praised for its improved balance over traditional Thunderbirds, making it a preferable choice for those concerned about neck dive.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Moving the strap pin from the upper bout to the neck heel improves balance for a more neutral hang.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The non-reverse Thunderbird features set-neck construction and a wider nut compared to the reverse model, offering a different playing experience.

    Source
  • The 5-string non-reverse Thunderbird is noted for its rarity and expanded flexibility, especially in metal genres due to the extra string.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
peasinafookinpod420

great bass

Hannah used this bass the majority of the 2nd album, and it sounded great. she loves it and plays it whenever it is needed to be used on a song. when she got it, it had a Rickenbacker style bridge instead of the stock one. it is fiesta red and has chrome hardware.

skylinerr

NICE

Red non reverse thunderbird

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billie Joe Armstrong uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Billie Joe Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via Photo

"oh hell yea Salt Lake!! the rain at the end of the night was pure magic!!"

See how Geddy Lee uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo we can see Lee holding a Non-Reverse Gibson Thunderbird Bass in a Green Finish, as well as another Non-Reverse Thunderbird in a Orange Finish just over his right shoulder.

See how John Entwistle uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

John Entwistle

Singer, Bassist

The Who

...
Verified via Thewho

In this list of Entwistle's equipment we can see Entwistle with a Non-Reverse Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass.

See how Shavo Odadjian uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Shavo Odadjian

Guitarist, Bassist

System of a Down

...
Verified via YouTube

he can been seen playing it through out the video

See how Jeff Ament uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Jeff Ament

Bassist

Pearl Jam

...
Verified via Pinterest

In this photo on far left Jeff is playing a Non Reverse Thunderbird whilst singing.

See how Chris Squire uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Chris Squire

Singer, Bassist

Yes

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, Chris Squire can be seen playing a Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse.

See how Adam Clayton uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Adam Clayton

Bassist

U2

...
Verified via YouTube

This is used and seen in the music video for "The Fly" (1991)

See how Nikki Sixx uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Nikki Sixx

Singer, Bassist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via YouTube

At 19:39, Nikki Sixx can be seen using a Gibson Thunderbird Electric bass with a non-reverse headstock.

See how Jared Followill uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Jared Followill

Bassist

Kings of Leon

...
Verified via Photo

This Instagram Story was posted by Jared Followill on the 29th of June 2024. It features a Gibson thunderbird non-reverse bass.

See how Cliff Williams uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Cliff Williams

Bassist

AC/DC

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:11 you can see Williams using a tobacco burst thunderbird.

See how Matt Kean uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Matt Kean

Bassist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via Alternative Press

At this picture of the new BMTH's video in AP, we can see Matt using this bass

See how Mike Watt uses Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse

Mike Watt

Bassist

Porno for Pyros

...
Verified via Hootpage

Watt states on his site that he uses a blue Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse.

Album Usage

The Gibson Thunderbird Non-Reverse has been featured on the following albums:

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 Non-Reverse, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ampeg SVT-VR
Ampeg SVT-VR Bass Amplifier Heads
1
Boss TR-2 Tremolo
Boss TR-2 Tremolo Tremolo Effects Pedals
1
Boss DD-8 Digital Delay
Boss DD-8 Digital Delay Delay Effects Pedals
1
Boss DS-1 Distortion
Boss DS-1 Distortion Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Fender Precision Bass
Fender Precision Bass Electric Basses
1
Boss MT-2 Metal Zone
Boss MT-2 Metal Zone Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer Compressor Effects Pedals
1
Boss HM-2W Heavy Metal Waza Craft
Boss HM-2W Heavy Metal Waza Craft Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Boss RV-6 Reverb
Boss RV-6 Reverb Reverb Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
kezdemfeladni

kezdemfeladni

Gear IQ 206

bobyoung53

bobyoung53

Gear IQ 324

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 Negative XP Tobacco
10 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides