Vintage Gibson non-reverse thunderbird bass troubles

[Rob Martinez]

NR Thunderbirds are a bit hotter than the earlier '63-'65 reverse Thunderbirds. The '76 don't sound like Thunderbirds at all weak and brittle and the post '89 way to modern sounding. Original Thunderbird pick ups have excellent mid and top end response with a hint of inherent overdrive. Hope that helps

That helps, thanks!

Seems it may be worth getting my hands on a 66 T Bird since the 63-64 basses cost $5000 to $10,000 to get one.

I can't afford that!

 

[godofthunder59]

One other nice thing about NRs is excellent upper register access

 

[Showdown]

The '76 don't sound like Thunderbirds at all weak and brittle

I have to respectfully disagree with you on the weak and brittle part, Scott. I have two, and I get nothing but compliments on the sound from every band I've used them in, and a couple of studio engineers.

 

[Fly Guitars]

The serial numbers on these are often very lightly stamped and near the break. I had one repaired and unfortunately the serial number got sanded and lost - I think the luthier simply didn't see it was there. Shame, but I wouln't let it stop me from buying outright

 

[TheFenderBender]

They say up front the neck has been refinished and the headstock repaired.

I actually went and told them.

 

[godofthunder59]

So are you going to buy this?

 

[peterznid]

I have a chance to buy a Gibson non reverse Thunderbird ll bass.
Headstock was broken,no serial number,volume pot have a no 13766..
Pot for tone is not dated.
Im concern that this bass is not one of the copies(Greco...)
Also doesn t have a finger rest(no holes on pick guard and wood)Please give me some ideas about this bass.

 

[Bionic-Joe]

let me know if you ever want to dump this

 

[user362432]

Looks like piece of firewood to me.

 

[OVERDRIVEN66]

This bass is somewhat of an anolamy. Some things look right.... some are totally out in left field. The volute totally discredits it to me as it being a 60's T-Bird. WhoTF knows what this bass really is! A player bass at best IF it has the signature 60's growl. If not, IMO, it is just parts value, and basically firewood. Could expound on my knowledge of these basses here but it is only a waste of time for me to take the time to expound on the possible merits of this at best 'look at me' bass. Would buy it myself just for parts. Collector value or value without hearing it ain't much, boys! Knock yourself out. Count me a player for CHEAP-CHEEP money. Just for the 'look at me I got a NR T-Bird' factor. Little value otherwise.