Gibson RD Artist descriptions of controls (1978)

In 1978 Gibson published a series of single-page sheets, describing in detail the specific operation of some it's instruments with the least intuitive controls; the RD Artist was a good example of a bass with a huge tonal range, but with controls beyond the usual tone and volume. No equivalent sheet was produced for the much more conventional controls of the RD Standard.

The control description below is actually for the first version of the RD Artist bass, the RD77, circa 1977-1978. Have a closer look at a 1978 RD Artist bass. As can be seen, the three-way mode selection switch, (#7 in the image below) only allows expansion / compression, OR bright mode).

In late 1979 the controls were changed; the three way mode switch replaced by two separate two-way mini-toggle switches, allowing both expansion/compression and bright mode simultaneously; something that could not be achieved the earlier RD77 version. Basses with this second switch arrangement are referred to as RD79 basses. Have a closer look at a 1981 RD Artist bass.

There are several RD Artist bass soundclips on this site demonstrating the nature of the built-in effects, and showing some of the more typical settings I use on my RDs.

See also the equivalent sheets for the Ripper, G3, Les Paul Signature and EB3 basses.

Gibson RD bass guitars for sale

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1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass Sunburst

Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3999

Very good condition 1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass. All original, outside of the removal of the Moog electronics. Original pickups sound MASSIVE and have tons of low end on tap. Really a special bass from Gibson that was not made that long. Original sunburst finish looks great on this specific bass. Some signs of play as pictured, but nothing crazy. All electronics have been tested to be working perfectly. Recently set up as well. Kept in a smoke free, pet free studio for recording purposes. Comes ... more

1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC

San Jose, California, 951**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

1978 Gibson RD Artist Bass Guitar + Original Gibson Hardshell Case
" NATURAL BLONDE" FINISH
GIBSON NORLIN-ERA
Original MOOG ELECTRONICS
Made in USA (Kalamazoo Plant, MI)
Production # 102 (April 17th release)
Adult owned only. Children-free, Pet-free household. Kept inside case when not used

Up for sale is a BEAUTIFUL LATE-70's Gibson Bass Guitar (RD ARTIST)
EXCELLENT overall vintage condition. Standard surface scratches, light dings, marks on front / back body / ... more

Gibson RD Artist MOOG 1978 Natural Maple 4-String Bass w / HSC (Used)

Sedalia, Missouri, 653**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

Has light wear and scratches from being played. Overall in great condition with no major wear or dings. Has typical flat Gibson style frets. Overall in great condition. Have some light wear but no divoting or anything to worry about. Screws for battery compartment cover have been swapped with flat head screws (as seen in photos). Corner of back plate is chipped (as seen in photos). Expander Sensitivity Control on back plate is missing the plastic cap. It does work and is accessible. Strap ... more

1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC

Healdsburg, California, 954**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2800

The 1977 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric Bass. fantastic shape for it's age Guitar is a vintage instrument known for its association with Moog synthesizers. This right-handed bass features a solid maple body in a natural blonde finish, with a maple fretboard. The 4-string configuration and Artist series designation indicate a high-quality build, made in the United States. This bass comes with its original hardshell case, adding to its collectible value. A classic choice... more

Gibson RD Standard bass Maple Wood 1977 PERFECT

Oakland, California, 946**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2895

RD Standard Gibson electric bass, all maple wood
This fantastic instrument was made in 1977, is all original and is in superb almost-new condition!
It has very easy action but does not buzz on the neck. In my opinion it does not need an action set-up. It plays perfectly as is. It was my best friend's brother's who was the sole owner and it has spent most of its time stored in its case
The serial Number is 72697004. This means it was made on the 269th day of 1977 (September 26th,... more

Gibson RD Artist Bass

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, 279**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2999

1978 (February 25, #117) Gibson RD Artist Series Bass Guitar in very good condition. Lightly played with all original parts and electronics. All switches and knobs work smoothly without crackle or static. Minor blemishes and scuffs from playing, no deep gouges or scrapes. Hamer brand case is clean inside, needs some hardware but is functional. Medium heavy flat-wound strings on it now. Sounds like a beast!! Case kept, non-smoking home.
... more

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