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Thread: Thunderbird (TB-4) My First Build

  1. #1
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    Cool Thunderbird (TB-4) My First Build

    I am going to get the TB-4 bass and i wanted to know if anyone has built one before and can supply pics of what the finish product looks like. I am really interested in it and i would love to know if it is a good idea as a project and what you guys thoughts are.

  2. #2
    GAStronomist wokkaboy's Avatar
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    welcome to the forum Jack. I can't recall seeing a TB-4 in a diary but there could be someone who hasn't posted a diary that sees your post. Would love to see one built as well. I think you might as well order it if you like that shape, start a build diary and ask any questions you have there

    EDIT on looking at the kit the 5 string Thunderbird is cheaper could be worth considering. Different pre-shaped headstock though.
    Last edited by wokkaboy; 11-05-2017 at 04:04 PM.
    Current Builds and status
    scratch end grain pine tele - first clear coat on !
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  3. #3
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    Thanks wokka, i was thinking of the 5 string but i would pay double of what the kit is worth and i am working on a smaller budget. But i will still consider it.

  4. #4
    Hi Jack,
    This was the only finished TBird I found when I was looking a while ago.
    http://www.buildyourownguitar.com.au...ead.php?t=6651

    I've still got a long way to go on mine but the only problems so far have been completely my own fault!

    All the best & post pics of yours when you get going
    b

  5. #5
    GAStronomist wazkelly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by wokkaboy View Post
    EDIT on looking at the kit the 5 string Thunderbird is cheaper could be worth considering. Different pre-shaped headstock though.
    @ Woks, it is $80 cheaper as it comes without pickups and routed for J Bass ones. A 5 stringer set of those would be at least $100 to $120 for a decent set plus not as nice a headstock shape.

    @ Jack K, welcome to the forum and good luck with the build. The TB-4 also comes with a pair of generic soap bar looking humbuckers which will give it a meatier sound compared to J Bass ones and therefore sound closer to the real thing.

    Cheers, Waz
    # 1 - EX-5 https://goo.gl/fQJMqh
    # 2 - EX-1 https://goo.gl/KSY9W9
    # 3 - Non PBG Tele https://goo.gl/W14G5g
    # 4 - Non PBG J Bass https://goo.gl/FbBaFy
    # 5 - TL-1AR GOTM Aug 2017 https://goo.gl/sUh14s
    # 6 - MMB-4 Runner-up GOTM Oct 2018https://goo.gl/gvrPkp
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  6. #6
    Overlord of Music Fretworn's Avatar
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    Welcome Jack. Enjoy the build.
    Current:
    GTH-1

    Completed:
    AST-1FB
    First Act ME276 (resurrected curb-side find)
    ES-5V
    Scratchie lapsteel
    Custom ST-1 12 String
    JBA-4
    TL-1TB
    Scratch Lapsteel
    Meinl DIY Cajon
    Cigar Box lap steel

    Wishing:
    Baritone
    Open D/Standard Double 6 twin neck

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