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Differnce between gibson thunderbird IV and Thunderbird Studio

B

brandonsbass

Jun 25, 2006
45
1
#1
I have been looking into getting a Thunderbird, and aside from the bridge being made of Brass (and $700 cheaper) I can't see anything different about the studio version of this bass. Can someone tell me if I'm going to hear a major difference or feel a major difference between the two. Unfortunately, I'll probably have to order it online, so I won't be able to play it first, but I'll have 45 days to return it. But I would like someone who has touched one to give me some info about either of the two.
 
#2
The studio has a set neck and the IV has a nine ply neck thru which cost more to make. I tried a studio recently and liked it. It sounded punchier than a IV and played great. The neck is slightly larger. I normally play a Thunderbird/Blackbird. I'd say go for it.
 
#5
loendmaestro said:
Haven't played a Studio yet, but I do own a T-bird. I'd be eager to see how the "snap" of a bolt on/set neck would affect the sound. Though I think Motor Ted hit it on the head saying it was punchier.

Pure aesthetic, but the studio headstocks are kinda lame compared to the originals...
Click to expand...

The studio bird I played reminded me of a les paul bass only different shape.

Strange........The headstock didn't look wrong in person as it does in photos I've seen. It was a 5 string though so there might be enough hardware covering it up.:D
 
#6
Hey Brandonsbass
DId you make a decision to get one?
I ended up at GC this weekend and tried out the same T-Bird Studio I previously played against a pedula, Warwick, Yamaha, and a couple of Ibanez 5 strings and I ended up buying that Gibson Studio!
When I get it home, I'm really interested to see if the case will fit a Normal Thunderbird as it appears smaller.
Cheers
 

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