Thunderbird Club

[dagrev]

Used the old rescue Bird last night at rehearsal. Tried LaBella DTFs on it. Sounded really good, but used the neck only 80% of the time. You know how neck only has some "rough around the edges" texture/punch that tends to go away with both pickups. These pickups need that and using both tends takes too much of that away, if that makes sense. But it did sound good. But I'm almost certain it can sound better with different pickups. Normally I use both 75% of the time with all the others, but this one kind of needs it most or all of the time. Sounded good with both heads, but the Ampeg adds some extra heft and definition for this bass as it is currently.

After a little A/B comparing at home, I think the the VPs have more mids and sparkle in the right places and even more lows. Not as bright either. Go figure. What is in it (BHK not BHC) seems to have some low mids but not much in the mid-mids or high-mids, making them somewhat less three dimensional as the others you could say. Very enjoyable to play, but I'm sure it can sound even better so PUPs might be my next move. I was thinking the Gibsons, but I might try some Epi 760s if I run across some. Won't be out much if it's not a good match and can always add the Gibson reissues if it doesn't sound any better.

 

[Gaolee]

can I fly up for that one?

Absolutely. There might even be video, depending on where it is and what band. Only problem with the holy grail Lull through a 360 is that there's nowhere to hide. Raw clams will be huge raw clams.

 

[Gaolee]

...but you have to be committed to it.

Well that rules me out. Committed to much of anything is always iffy.

 

[Gaolee]

Well, that's one I've never heard before. But are you just saying that?

I can tell you about things I have said and gotten away with saying that aren't a recommended practice.

 

[GBassNorth]

Used the old rescue Bird last night at rehearsal. Tried LaBella DTFs on it. Sounded really good, but used the neck only 80% of the time. You know how neck only has some "rough around the edges" texture/punch that tends to go away with both pickups. These pickups need that and using both tends takes too much of that away, if that makes sense. But it did sound good. But I'm almost certain it can sound better with different pickups. Normally I use both 75% of the time with all the others, but this one kind of needs it most or all of the time. Sounded good with both heads, but the Ampeg adds some extra heft and definition for this bass as it is currently.

After a little A/B comparing at home, I think the the VPs have more mids and sparkle in the right places and even more lows. Not as bright either. Go figure. What is in it (BHK not BHC) seems to have some low mids but not much in the mid-mids or high-mids, making them somewhat less three dimensional as the others you could say. Very enjoyable to play, but I'm sure it can sound even better so PUPs might be my next move. I was thinking the Gibsons, but I might try some Epi 760s if I run across some. Won't be out much if it's not a good match and can always add the Gibson reissues if it doesn't sound any better.

Just note there’s a noticeable sound difference between 760ProBuckers with the Eppi logo engraved on the back plate and the newer ones with no Eppi logo. I’m not aware of anywhere you can buy the original ProBuckers. The new ProBuckers that are advertised on eBay look to me like ChinaBuckers and I’m still not sure Eppi is legitimately selling them, so they could be factory seconds or knock offs or even the real deal, who knows.

The Gibson Reissue pickups do sound great, full and rich, and relatively balanced across the tonal spectrum, overall just like the new ProBuckers, the Gibby pups have a slightly warmer less gritty sound than the original ProBuckers. As for EY or ChinaBucker pickups, I find them lacking in content when soloed, but when paired with a second pup they get much fuller sounding and are not a bad pickup for the price, just not as polished and rich as the Gibby pickups and not at gritty as the older ProBuckers.

 

[dagrev]

I can tell you about things I have said and gotten away with saying that aren't a recommended practice.

OK, now we are all ears. Derail the thread, and get it shut down. We have to know. Surely it won't be shutdown too long. Will it?

 

[dagrev]

Just note there’s a noticeable sound difference between 760ProBuckers with the Eppi logo engraved on the back plate and the newer ones with no Eppi logo. I’m not aware of anywhere you can buy the original ProBuckers. The new ProBuckers that are advertised on eBay look to me like ChinaBuckers and I’m still not sure Eppi is legitimately selling them, so they could be factory seconds or knock offs or even the real deal, who knows.

The Gibson Reissue pickups do sound great, full and rich, and relatively balanced across the tonal spectrum, overall just like the new ProBuckers, the Gibby pups have a slightly warmer less gritty sound than the original ProBuckers. As for EY or ChinaBucker pickups, I find them lacking in content when soloed, but when paired with a second pup they get much fuller sounding and are not a bad pickup for the price, just not as polished and rich as the Gibby pickups and not at gritty as the older ProBuckers.

Thank you. That's a good and helpful comparison. While the spacing is different, I kind of gathered the new Gibson reissues were warmer or not as hot sounding as the what was in the VPs. I'm like Scott, I really like the VP pickups. I think I would really like the new unstamped version, but it's highly unlikely I will buy one so marked from China. Too great of a chance it is not what is claimed. I've even been looking for broken VP or 64 Basses. You can find in tact bodies but everything else removed. Which seems a little odd.

I emailed Epi (Gibson) days ago and asked if they sold the new ProBuckers for Thunderbirds, and that there are a number of sellers from China selling what is claimed to be Epi 760s Probuckers. I asked if they were possibly legit and an option if Epi doesn't offer them. As you can imagine I have not received a reply. I'm not sure why Business is bothered to put an email contact on their website if they have no intention of replying. I think about half the time I email a business seeking information or to give them business, they don't bother to reply. I guess they have so much it doesn't matter. Must be good to be doing that well in business you can ignore customers.

 

[GBassNorth]

Thank you. That's a good and helpful comparison. While the spacing is different, I kind of gathered the new Gibson reissues were warmer or not as hot sounding as the what was in the VPs. I'm like Scott, I really like the VP pickups. I think I would really like the new unstamped version, but it's highly unlikely I will buy one so marked from China. Too great of a chance it is not what is claimed. I've even been looking for broken VP or 64 Basses. You can find in tact bodies but everything else removed. Which seems a little odd.

I emailed Epi (Gibson) days ago and asked if they sold the new ProBuckers for Thunderbirds, and that there are a number of sellers from China selling what is claimed to be Epi 760s Probuckers. I asked if they were possibly legit and an option if Epi doesn't offer them. As you can imagine I have not received a reply. I'm not sure why Business is bothered to put an email contact on their website if they have no intention of replying. I think about half the time I email a business seeking information or to give them business, they don't bother to reply. I guess they have so much it doesn't matter. Must be good to be doing that well in business you can ignore customers.

I had a similar dilemma when I wanted to build my ‘66 NR Tribute bass. I wanted original 760ProBuckers and wanted them in the original 1966 locations vs the new Reissue Gibby NR locations and pickups. What worked out great for me was to find an early run Embassy bass.

They have the exact same pickups and Bridge and hard tail as the Eppi VP bird. I managed to find one for $200 that was in mint condition and had a wonderful neck on it. Turns out the first run of these isn’t intonation friendly because they placed the bridge in the wrong location, so folks were dumping them. That was two years ago but there might still be some out there, just get one of the older ones and you’ll be guaranteed to get the original gritty 760ProBuckers like you like.

If you buy the bass for under $300 and remove the pickups you can probably still sell the bridge and tuning keys for an easy $100 and the gutted husk for another $100 making your pup purchase about $100, not bad for a nice set of legit ProBuckers.

About a year ago in my mad scientist little shop of horrors
This…

Became this…

 

[GBassNorth]

Donny, lookie here…

Pardon Our Interruption...

 

[Stealth57]

I bit the bullet and picked up this beautiful example of a 1964. Keep in mind I consider myself solely a caretaker of this historic axe. I only bought it for two reasons; 1) it belonged in this club and 2) I had some funny money left over from an inheritance.

This was from the original owner using a guitar shop to sell it for them. It was listed as a broken headstock, so the price was lower and I was able to negotiate another 20% off. I was told by the shop owner that seconds after I paid, he was called by collectors looking to buy it. I guess I lucked out.

Now, I don't know if God himself was the luthier or if the broken headstock was a mistake in the listing. I can't see or feel any damage. Maybe it is possible to make an invisible repair...

I have too many photos to place here, so if you want to see for yourself, Dropbox

P.S. I already modified my trust to say that family needs to come here to sell any of my birds. Can't let this one go elsewhere if possible. It looks completely stock with all the parts.

Teaser:

 

[dagrev]

I had a similar dilemma when I wanted to build my ‘66 NR Tribute bass. I wanted original 760ProBuckers and wanted them in the original 1966 locations vs the new Reissue Gibby NR locations and pickups. What worked out great for me was to find an early run Embassy bass.

They have the exact same pickups and Bridge and hard tail as the Eppi VP bird. I managed to find one for $200 that was in mint condition and had a wonderful neck on it. Turns out the first run of these isn’t intonation friendly because they placed the bridge in the wrong location, so folks were dumping them. That was two years ago but there might still be some out there, just get one of the older ones and you’ll be guaranteed to get the original gritty 760ProBuckers like you like.

If you buy the bass for under $300 and remove the pickups you can probably still sell the bridge and tuning keys for an easy $100 and the gutted husk for another $100 making your pup purchase about $100, not bad for a nice set of legit ProBuckers.

About a year ago in my mad scientist little shop of horrors
This…
View attachment 7162828

Became this…
View attachment 7162830

Donny, lookie here…

Pardon Our Interruption...

Duh! ...I was too fixated on VPs and didn't even think of Embassy basses. Great thought George! Thanks!

 

[dagrev]

I bit the bullet and picked up this beautiful example of a 1964. Keep in mind I consider myself solely a caretaker of this historic axe. I only bought it for two reasons; 1) it belonged in this club and 2) I had some funny money left over from an inheritance.

This was from the original owner using a guitar shop to sell it for them. It was listed as a broken headstock, so the price was lower and I was able to negotiate another 20% off. I was told by the shop owner that seconds after I paid, he was called by collectors looking to buy it. I guess I lucked out.

Now, I don't know if God himself was the luthier or if the broken headstock was a mistake in the listing. I can't see or feel any damage. Maybe it is possible to make an invisible repair...

I have too many photos to place here, so if you want to see for yourself, Dropbox

P.S. I already modified my trust to say that family needs to come here to sell any of my birds. Can't let this one go elsewhere if possible. It looks completely stock with all the parts.

Teaser:
View attachment 7162865

Wow!!! That's fantastic Dave! Another Thunderbird comes home! Congrats. So cool!
It is possible to fix a some neck breaks and it not show--without finishing it in black. I watched a guy repair a Les Paul and you couldn't tell it. A black light likely would, but not to the plain eyeball. May have been more of a crack than a break as well. Doesn't matter. Break or not, it's fantastic. Makes them affordable for normal people.

 

[TBird1958]

I bit the bullet and picked up this beautiful example of a 1964. Keep in mind I consider myself solely a caretaker of this historic axe. I only bought it for two reasons; 1) it belonged in this club and 2) I had some funny money left over from an inheritance.

This was from the original owner using a guitar shop to sell it for them. It was listed as a broken headstock, so the price was lower and I was able to negotiate another 20% off. I was told by the shop owner that seconds after I paid, he was called by collectors looking to buy it. I guess I lucked out.

Now, I don't know if God himself was the luthier or if the broken headstock was a mistake in the listing. I can't see or feel any damage. Maybe it is possible to make an invisible repair...

I have too many photos to place here, so if you want to see for yourself, Dropbox

P.S. I already modified my trust to say that family needs to come here to sell any of my birds. Can't let this one go elsewhere if possible. It looks completely stock with all the parts.

Teaser:
View attachment 7162865

WoW! Dave!

Awesome score, major congratulations, dang!

 

[Stealth57]

WoW! Dave!

Awesome score, major congratulations, dang!

Now if I could figure out where to put my fingers...I don't use a pick

 

[Nocturnal]

I bit the bullet and picked up this beautiful example of a 1964. Keep in mind I consider myself solely a caretaker of this historic axe. I only bought it for two reasons; 1) it belonged in this club and 2) I had some funny money left over from an inheritance.

This was from the original owner using a guitar shop to sell it for them. It was listed as a broken headstock, so the price was lower and I was able to negotiate another 20% off. I was told by the shop owner that seconds after I paid, he was called by collectors looking to buy it. I guess I lucked out.

Now, I don't know if God himself was the luthier or if the broken headstock was a mistake in the listing. I can't see or feel any damage. Maybe it is possible to make an invisible repair...

I have too many photos to place here, so if you want to see for yourself, Dropbox

P.S. I already modified my trust to say that family needs to come here to sell any of my birds. Can't let this one go elsewhere if possible. It looks completely stock with all the parts.

Teaser:
View attachment 7162865

Congratulations Dave!! Great looking Bird!! A black light will usually tell you if there is a repair hiding under the finish.

 

[Stealth57]

Congratulations Dave!! Great looking Bird!! A black light will usually tell you if there is a repair hiding under the finish.

Did that and nothing shows up. The finish matches the rest of the bass. The bass shipped with the tuners removed so I could see the grooves where the tabs on the back of the tuners sit on the headstock. No evidence that the back of the HS was refinished. I'm not complaining

 

[RedVee]

I bit the bullet and picked up this beautiful example of a 1964. Keep in mind I consider myself solely a caretaker of this historic axe. I only bought it for two reasons; 1) it belonged in this club and 2) I had some funny money left over from an inheritance.

This was from the original owner using a guitar shop to sell it for them. It was listed as a broken headstock, so the price was lower and I was able to negotiate another 20% off. I was told by the shop owner that seconds after I paid, he was called by collectors looking to buy it. I guess I lucked out.

Now, I don't know if God himself was the luthier or if the broken headstock was a mistake in the listing. I can't see or feel any damage. Maybe it is possible to make an invisible repair...

I have too many photos to place here, so if you want to see for yourself, Dropbox

P.S. I already modified my trust to say that family needs to come here to sell any of my birds. Can't let this one go elsewhere if possible. It looks completely stock with all the parts.

Teaser:
View attachment 7162865

Congratulations !

 

[RedVee]

Does there need to be a 1960’s Thunderbird Register?

 

[Miles_ONeal]

Ordered some custom Vans (because they don't currently stock what I want). Hai Phong -> Hanoi -> Anchorage -> Guangjhou -> Memphis -> Austin -> Round Rock .
Wild.

 

[Stealth57]

I can confirm that the 64 body shape is exactly the same as a VP. Both are snug fits in the Epi triangular case.