Few bass guitars have achieved true cult status, but the Thunderbird is undeniably one of them – its striking design, inspired by 1960s American road cruisers, is undeniably a break from the monotony of traditional designs. As a subsidiary of Gibson, Epiphone offers the Thunderbird IV as a more accessible alternative to its legendary predecessor, yet it retains all the defining features that make a Thunderbird what it is. With carefully selected tonewoods and a pair of humbucker pickups, this instrument delivers a distinctive sound often described as "throaty" or "growling", and when paired with its bold aesthetic, the bass becomes an ideal choice for rock, blues rock, and even heavier styles across the metal spectrum.
Mahogany has long been the preferred wood for the Thunderbird body, thanks to its distinctive midrange that makes this wood perfect for a Rock bass, while the classic vintage sunburst finish beautifully brings out the natural grain. A bolt-on maple neck with an angled headstock is paired with a laurel fingerboard housing 20 frets, and together with two humbuckers and passive electronics (volume, volume, tone), the instrument delivers everything a Rock bassist could need – powerful, punchy tones shaped by the mahogany's character. Completing the signature look are black hardware and a white pickguard proudly displaying the Thunderbird logo.
With its striking looks, powerful features, and distinctive sound, the Epiphone Thunderbird IV is a top choice for Rock and Metal bassists, effortlessly meeting all the expectations in that realm – yet the instrument offers so much more. The Thunderbird is an instrument for individualists, those who want to break away from the norm and make a bold statement, instantly drawing attention on any stage with a design that stands apart from the endlessly imitated classics. Sling a Thunderbird over your shoulder and immediately look cool – something few basses can truly deliver.
Today, Epiphone is known only as the Asian budget offshoot of Gibson. Yet both companies were once independent, equal, and also bitter rivals. The roots of Epiphone go back to the 1870s and to Anastasios Stathopoulo, a Greek instrument maker, who emigrated to America in 1903 with his son Epaminondas (“Epi” for short). Epi changed the name of the firm to the "Epiphone Banjo Company" after taking over the family business in 1928. During this year, Epiphone also began to manufacture guitars, which rapidly came to dominate their sales. In 1957, Epiphone was taken over by C.M.I., which already included Gibson, but continued as a separate brand until 1970, when manufacturing was outsourced to Asia. Well-known Epiphone models include the Casino, played by the Beatles, and the Sheraton, John Lee Hooker's instrument of choice.
If the goal is to play bass in a Rock or heavy band and truly be heard, an instrument that can cut through the mix and stand strong against a wall of guitars and drums – without relying on equalisers or compressors – is needed. That calls for a powerful tone with pronounced mids, and that's exactly what the Epiphone Thunderbird offers, making the instrument an perfect match for tube amps and pedals like overdrive or distortion – anything that thrives on a bit of grit. All three work seamlessly together, especially with a bass that delivers such impressive output and punch.