Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Thanks for the input. I love the shape of the Thunderbird (I like the Firebird and Explorer too); it's one of the three great bass designs IMO, the others being the 4000 series Rics and the Precision. I'm happy to hear that it sounds as good as it looks.

I pass a Gibson dealer on my way home, maybe I should just, ya know, look. It's still warm enough to sleep in the garage, isn't it?

It'll be worth it...those warm, fat tones from the Thunderbird will keep you toasty all night!

$1200-1400 new, I've seen 'em in good shape on eBay for $850 before...

You've been a good boy this year no? Make it your Xmas present to yourself!

Hey Steve,
Great news! That T-Bird will fit in that old bass case of mine...

...if you take a hacksaw & cut the headstock down right after the 4th tuning key.

Sorry man, I tried!

Steve, I don't have an answer to your question, but I do moderate the Gibson bass forum at The Dudepit: http://p219.ezboard.com/fthedudepitfrm5 . I'm not a T-bird owner but there are plenty of them there, and if there's an alternative, they would know.

Feel free to join in and ask, just be aware that in the Gibson forum, it's a different world...we often get way off topic. As in, you can ask a question about a bridge and next thing you know, we're discussing Gwyneth Paltrow.

Dave,
Thanks for the heads up. Appreciate it! If you hear of something on the Gibson bass board, please let me know.
Chris, thanks for checking that one out. Can you do me a favour and measure the inside dimension of your case, just in case I do find a generic one, I know what size I need? Thanks!
Steve

Approx. 52"x16"

THAT is a beast. HOWEVER, I found out today that an Ibanez X-Series (Explorer bass) case will fit a Thunderbird. I could just call Musicians Friend and have one here within the week. However, there is a certain thrill of the hunt and finding one via alternate means. I enjoy that. It also keeps me from looking for other basses during that time.

What's the price dif on the Gibson/Ibanez cases?

I'm trying to fight buying another pedal at this point & STILL longing for a G&L after one of our previous discussions...

I shoulda bought a lottery ticket this week!

The only way to find the Ibanez bass case is to find it used. The X series basses (which I used to own, and now I wished I had kept the case!!) are HUGE, were made during the 80's, and I had one of the cases measured, and sure enough, it'll fit. So if I run across one, its MINE.
I think there is a Detroit Guitar Show this weekend, maybe I will head over there and look for a case.

Good luck my brother! I'll keep an eye out too...

Steve, is that an Epiphone T-bird? I've been thinking of trying one out. How would you rate it?

Hey Scott,
Check the first page of this thread & you'll get the combo "Chris & Coop T-Bird Review". Covering both the Epi & the standard Gibson models...

Scott, I like it a lot! Worth every dollar! Thought I would try the Epiphone to make sure I liked the model, and I love it. So now a Gibson is in my future....I have my eye on a white one at my local guitar shister.....

Steve, did you check with Marty at Motor City? They sell Gator cases. I have bought a couple, they seem decent and not too expensive. The two I bought for guitars were under $70. A bass case may be a little more. Also he has from time to time shop worn Gibson cases at about half price.

Ken, No, I didnt check there....I should! It's been a while since I have been up to the store, I think I should pay them a visit! What did you think of the T-Bird? I (and my band) are very happy with the sound, it has a little more deep bottom end than my '73 Ric. I just wish the upper frets were a little more accessible...