Pedulla question

[Dragonlord]

Well I'm looking at Thunderbolts and Thunderbasses and I found a Thunderbolt from 1998. The pickups are Barts, the seller says it has the custom Bart preamp and the Thunderguts switch but I can only see three knobs instead of four in the Pedulla website. What's missing, and would you consider it a significant loss?
Also, how much do 5 string Thunderbolts go for at ebay and how often do they come up?
thx

 

[Lonnybass]

The three-knob configuration has a single tone treble control plus the Thunderguts switch. The four-knob configuration has split treble and bass controls plus the Thunderguts switch. More flexibility and versatility from the four-knob setup (which used to be an factory option and now is standard). A reputable luthier should have no problem upgrading the circuit to the NTBT. They go all the time on Ebay and generally fall anywhere between $1000 and $1800 depending on the grade of the top and condition.

Lonnybass

 

[bgartist]

Yes, the 3 knob one is an older model. Still an awesome bass.

 

[pickles]

I don't think I ever touched the EQ on mine, it sounded great flat, so I wouldn't worry about being without the 2-band.

 

[Detonation]

I had an even earlier one, from 1994 I believe, I had to sell due to lack of funds but they're absolutely great basses. If you're lucky you might even get one for under $1000.

 

[Dragonlord]

Well, turns out it was the 19mm model which I'm not interested in... it's on the english ebay if anyone's interested though.

 

[Ian Perge]

Pedulla's very well might be the best deal on the used market. If only they made a non maple-bodied Rapture (I'd kill for ash with a maple top) which I find too bright, I'd have my "dream bass" issue settled.

 

[xan]

I notice theres a rapture going on ebay atm (sorry its still maple bodied ) but seems like a great price considering what they sell for new. Very tempting...