Weight distribution on a T-Bird

DustinRinehart · #1 09-15-2009, 03:43 PM

Hey Justin,

Since you're a Thunderbird man (among many other things) I'm wondering if you can shed some light on this. Anyone familiar with T-Birds knows that if you let go of the neck, the headstock is on it's way to meet the floor. How do you deal with this? I've heard several solutions such as changing the location of the strap pins to balance it out, or somehow placing weights on the back of the body, etc.

At any rate, I'm curious if your T-Birds have been moded in any way to even out the weight distribution, or if you're just holdin' that big b***ard up with brute force. Awaiting your response!

Dustin

DubBassfunk · #2 09-16-2009, 12:37 AM

i also am wondering you opinion on this. and what would you recommend as far as replacement/upgraded tuners and bridges, (ive checked out shaller and hipshot). i have a epiphone t bird and i love it but i need your insight and experience with the bass. and also thank you for years of inspiration and years more to come, you are a bada**!!!!.
peace
j

jmjbassplayer · #3 09-16-2009, 01:48 AM

My hipshot ultralights help a tiny bit, but otherwise y'all just gots ta deal!!! It's the way of the world. It's like dark-colored cars get swirl marks, or all good lawns get weeds you have to deal with, etc. etc.

It doesn't really bother me. I'm so used to those basses being neck heavy and I will never stop playing them!

Best,
J

jaseOZ · #4 09-17-2009, 03:30 AM

I have the epi bird too and I just moved the button to the upper neck side screw of the bolt on neck. Made it HEAPS better. The button on my Gibson came in roughly the same spot but the gibson is also much lighter and better balanced.

Whenever I see anyone playing anything other than a Thunderbird I really feel true sorrow for them because I just know that they aren't looking as cool or rock as they should.

This video is of my first gig with a new band (KATHEMATICS) on Fri 4th of this month, I'm generally a dopey looking dufus but check out how cool the thunderbird makes me look circa 2:55:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeXMrXYc--8

jaseOZ · #5 09-17-2009, 03:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmjbassplayer

or all good lawns get weeds you have to deal with

Crikey, the wifey and I bought our first house a couple of years ago and now I find myself now at the mercy of a small patch of 'conquest couch'. Is it really a concern in your life??

I just put some weed kill fertiliser on it and that seems to be working but I do find myself pulling weeds out with my fingers..you start with one and it goes on and on....

Fly Guitars · #6 09-17-2009, 07:19 AM

If you play with a pick, just rest your hand on the bridge, and pluck from there. That counterbalances the neck nicely. I don't, so this doesn't work for me

MetroBass · #7 09-24-2009, 12:15 AM

They're sooooo good, you'll soon forget about that aspect of a 'bird!

JimmyM · #8 09-24-2009, 12:24 AM

Know what bugs me about T-Birds? The way your arm has to extend out to play them. The non-reverse Firebirds are better for that, but the look is a lot plainer than the reverse body. Shame, always loved watching dudes like Pete Way and Overend Watts busting out some badass on a Bird, but my arms are too short.