⚑ Gibson Unleashes the New Thunderbird Bass β€” a legendary icon reborn for modern players

April 3, 2026, 9:15 a.m.

Gibson, one of the most iconic American instrument brands, proudly announces the worldwide release of the new Thunderbird™ Bass, now available in two striking finishes: Ebony and Tobacco Burst Perimeter. This release combines classic 1960s design heritage with modern craftsmanship and performance.

🟠 ● A design that changed everything

Originally introduced in 1963, the Thunderbird stood apart from anything else on the market.

It was designed by legendary automotive designer Ray Dietrich, who also created the Firebird™ for Gibson. The bold, asymmetrical, and flowing body shape was revolutionary at the time and remains instantly recognizable today.

πŸ“Œ The new Gibson Thunderbird Bass is now available worldwide:

  • at Gibson Garage locations
  • through authorized dealers
  • via Gibson.com

🟠 ● Heritage construction reimagined

Early Thunderbird models featured:

  • a nine-ply neck-through-body construction
  • mahogany body wings
  • the first neck-through design on a Gibson bass

It was also the first Gibson bass with a 34” scale length, moving away from the shorter 30.5” scale used previously.

🎯 Today, Gibson honors that legacy while refining the instrument for modern performance.

🟠 ● Modern build and playability

The updated model features:

  • a solid mahogany body in the classic Reverse shape
  • a raised center section inspired by the original design

The neck includes:

  • a glued-in mahogany construction
  • a fast SlimTaper™ profile

The Non-Reverse headstock design offers a more intuitive tuning experience for modern players.

🟠 ● Hardware upgrades for precision and balance

Modern enhancements include:

πŸ”§ Hipshot® Ultralite® Mini Clover tuners
— for accurate tuning and improved balance

πŸ”§ Hipshot Supertone bridge
— allowing full intonation control and adjustable action

πŸ‘‰ These upgrades ensure reliability in both studio and live environments.

🟠 ● Thunderous tone — true to its name

The Thunderbird delivers powerful low-end performance thanks to its dual EB Bass Humbucker™ pickups.

These pickups provide:

βœ”οΈ deep, punchy bass
βœ”οΈ clarity and definition
βœ”οΈ wide dynamic range

Each pickup features independent volume controls for flexible tone blending.

πŸŽ› A master tone control adds further shaping, making the bass suitable for any genre.

🟠 ● Signature aesthetics

The instrument is completed with:

  • a 3-ply white pickguard
  • the iconic Thunderbird logo

🎯 A true visual statement on any stage.

🟠 ● Ready for stage and studio

Each bass includes a Gibson hardshell case for reliable protection:

  • on tour
  • in the studio
  • during storage

🟠 ● Final word: a legend for a new generation

The new Gibson Thunderbird Bass blends:

  • timeless design
  • modern performance
  • legendary tone
  • enhanced reliability

🎸 Available in Ebony and Tobacco Burst Perimeter, it’s ready to dominate stages and studios worldwide.