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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.

I own a a 2013 Epiphone thunderbird classic pro and a 2014 Gibson thunderbird. So, these two are both very close together in age. I set them up identically. So, straight out of the box the differences begin. The epi came in a box. Factory set up was ok but it obviously needed a set up. Intonation and action was a bit off. Strings were serviceable. Finish was good. Has the minor weird spots around the neck and raised center piece that's common even on gibsons. The electronics are vastly better than the non pro epis. Very close to the gibby tbird. The pots are not as responsive as the stock Gibson pots. The serial number is painted on in a very universal manner. Strap buttons are placed to eliminate neck dive.The Gibson comes in its case. A very nice one at that. Factory setup was awesome. Intonation was flawless. Strings were a better set of stainless rounds. It truly felt ready to gig right out the box. The neck is not as thick and is a tiny bit wider. The finish is noticeably thinner and just a bit more refined. The electronics are again just more refined. The pickups have the same fundamental sound but just sound much "clearer" and "woodier". The pots provide a smoother more even taper and the tone pot is much more usable. The bridges are identical. The gibby's tuners are smother and more consistently "firm"(?) in operation. The nut is of a higher quality on the Gibson. Weight and size wise I can't tell a difference.Honestly, the difference is refinement in details. But the question most will have is, "Is that refinement worth the price?" In my mind YES. The Epiphone is a solid entry to mid level bass. It looks good, sounds good, and is affordable for most. BUT. The Gibson feels and sounds like a $1200- $1500 bass. Which, is not for everyone. But if you like the sound, look and feel of an Epi Tbird, you'll f***ing love a Gibson Tbird.

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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.

I love this bass... Sound is amazing. I have the walnut. I play a lot of Kings of Leon. Its a lot liter then I thought. Very good balance.

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I have had and have a number of high end basses, Kubicki, Suhr, Warwick neck thru thumbs, fender custom shop,......NONE BUZZ LIKE THESE GIbson Thunderbirds. finish is just OK, fit, is just OK, it took two to choose which one buzzes the least. I like the neck and the set up, although it did need a little adjustment. I don't see how this bass would command a $3488.00 list price tag, MSRP of course. It just isn't there. Get rid of the buzz and make that tone pot useful....

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