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Thunderbird Hum & Mods

Hi guys,

I have a love/hate relationship with a '92 Gibson Thunderbird. I find it really comfortable to play but the 'boom' of the low E string is completely out of balance with the others.

Twinned with different needs for a different band (tight LF, some brightness), I'm toying with the big two:

1) reluctantly sell it
2) mod it

I do find the mids 'muddy' & LF definition poor. Adjusting pickup heights won't give an even loudness/fullness/response ... though I'm yet to try light gauge strings.

I'd love a little more HF clarity.... Has anyone changed tone pots on one? I'd be interested to know what difference bigger values make.

Plus I have nasty, nasty hum when stood within 2ft of an
amp. I'm thinking some cavity shielding is needed, but might replace wiring & components too.

Before I make any rash decisions I'd appreciate any experience/advice/observations from fellow owners! In my stubbornness to keep hold of it, I think I'm trying to make it sound more like a p-bass. Can it be done? Should it be done? It's so nice except the output!

x
 

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