Differences between Gibson RD Artist and Thunderbird

[Matt Preacher]

Hello JMJ.

i Saw on the Web that you're one of the most famous Gibson RD Artist users

So as you have old Thunderbird (1977?), what kind of differences do you think they are between RD Artist and Thunderbird on a pure sound comparison ?

Is it close ?

Best regards.

 

[jmjbassplayer]

Dramatically different. The RD doesn't really have the same midrange profile at all...it is far more scooped. With roundwound strings and EQ set flat, it's most like a muscular Jazz bass sound. The way I play it is with GHS super long scale heavy flats and lots of bass. It's more of a dubby, rubbery sound. Very thick.

My t-birds are much more about midrange aggression. Dark on the top, but with a big upper mid slice and a lower mid bump around 350-400 that makes every note very pronounced. Not a ton of super lows, but very satisfying nonetheless.

J

 

[Matt Preacher]

Thanks a lot !

 

[Matt Preacher]

Do you already use it on some NIN songs ?

 

[bassvirtuoso]

RD: all maple construction

Bird: all mahogany (unless it's post 80's, then some walnut in the neck)

Two different ends of the tone wood spectrum, if you believe in that sort of thing.