Trivia
FlyGuitarsNow on to the bonus round of silly but revealing questions
FlyGuitars Roundwound or flat?
JMJ Both
FlyGuitars Maple or Mahogany?
JMJ Both
FlyGuitars Active or passive?
JMJ PASSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
FlyGuitars Mud, thud or piano?
JMJ Mud
FlyGuitars Pick or fingers?
JMJ Both
FlyGuitars Ebony, Maple or Rosewood (please do not put down Wenge)?
JMJ Maple and Rosewood
FlyGuitars Digital or analogue?
JMJ Both. At the same time.
FlyGuitars Coke or Pepsi?
JMJ Coke!
FlyGuitars Cat or Dogs?
JMJ Cat
FlyGuitars VH-1 or MTV?
JMJ VH-1 is the only one that plays videos now, right? So VH1.
FlyGuitars Meat or potatoes?
JMJ Fish!
FlyGuitars Do you treat your basses as fine pieces of furniture (coffee table) or as tools?
JMJ Tools, but furniture if the value is over $2K. :-)
FlyGuitars Internet or boob tube?
JMJ Internet.
FlyGuitars Do you like basses with figured wood (flame/ curly) or do you like them with Plain Jane grain?
JMJ Plain Jane!!!!
FlyGuitars BEAD or CBGB?
JMJ CBGB!!
FlyGuitars Teletubbies or Sponge Bob?
JMJ Tubbies! 'Cuz that's what my baby girl likes.
FlyGuitars Thank you now back to more serious issues. What is your view of the current music industry situation as far as the death of CD sales/stores due to I pods and picking choosing single songs?
JMJ Inevitable. More changes are coming, get ready. But people still like music, so I'm not horribly distressed about it. Especially live music.
FlyGuitars Do you think that with today's technology and the fact that anyone can be a musician who owns a laptop or a MySpace account, that it dilutes music, or do you think it makes music better?
JMJ Dilutes it. There's too much quantity and not enough quality. I get way to many shitty demos (or Myspace page links) these days that end up depressing the hell out of me.
FlyGuitars Bands are getting dropped right and left by their labels, what does it take to make it in today's music industry?
JMJ Don't suck, don't be trendy, and persist.
FlyGuitars Do you find LA the center of the rock music industry?
JMJ Yeah. London is its own center, though.
FlyGuitars Thanks again I hope you enjoy the site in the future.
JMJ Absolutely! You guys do a great thing.
Justin with Alex Ebert, vocalist with Ima Robot
A selection of Justin's basses - Wal, Fender, Guild, Gibson, Rickenbacker and Hofner are all represented
Justin the bassist
... and Justin the producer
Thanks to John (Redbird) Fertig and Justin Meldal-Johnsen for another great interview
Why not check out some of these links
Justin Meldal-Johnsen homepage
Ima Robot homepage
Beck homepage
and don't forget the other FlyGuitar interviews
Gibson bass guitars for sale
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1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$13495
These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more
1982 Wal Pro Bass 1E Dark'bursted body & matching neck its 1 of a kind & Minty !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$11495
This Rare Pro IE Wal Bass was made in the Uk by the legendary guitar maker and electronics expert Ian Waller and Luthier Paul Stevens of the ?Electric Wood Ltd . Ian Waller was a bass player in the 60??s Manchester Scene .He honed his skills as an electronics mastermind and woodworker in London in the 60??s and became known for for his incredible guitar making abilities. He was commisioned to make custom Guitars for John Gustafson (Roxy Music??s bass player of the time), John G Parry of Caravan ... more
1972 Gibson L6-S Bass Prototype (Ripper, Grabber) Singlecut Sunburst
Syracuse, New York, 132**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$9000
1972 Gibson L6-S Bass Prototype (Ripper, Grabber) Singlecut Sunburst
This bass guitar is the prototype for the L6-S bass, a model that was never manufactured by Gibson. Although it is the prototype for an instrument that was not produced, it also seems to be a prototype of the Ripper and Grabber models introduced later that are constructed with the same materials (maple neck and body) and similar dimensions. The look of this one does foreshadow those later models
SETUP & ... more
This bass guitar is the prototype for the L6-S bass, a model that was never manufactured by Gibson. Although it is the prototype for an instrument that was not produced, it also seems to be a prototype of the Ripper and Grabber models introduced later that are constructed with the same materials (maple neck and body) and similar dimensions. The look of this one does foreshadow those later models
SETUP & ... more
1968 Guild Starfire I Bass Black w / OHSC
San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3995
1968 Guild Starfire I Bass In Black Finish
This Bass Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Finish Shows Some Cosmetic Playwear Including Various Small Dings, Marks, And Scratches Throughout
Notable Cable Burn Showing In Some Areas (See Photos)
All Original Example
Made In USA
Maple Semi-Hollow Body With Factory Black Finish
Mahogany Neck With Rosewood Fingerboard And Dot Inlays
Original Humbucker Pickup In Neck ... more
This Bass Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Finish Shows Some Cosmetic Playwear Including Various Small Dings, Marks, And Scratches Throughout
Notable Cable Burn Showing In Some Areas (See Photos)
All Original Example
Made In USA
Maple Semi-Hollow Body With Factory Black Finish
Mahogany Neck With Rosewood Fingerboard And Dot Inlays
Original Humbucker Pickup In Neck ... more
Gibson L9S RIPPER 1976 Electric Guitar USA Vintage Rare Maple with Hard Case
Chesterfield, Virginia, 238**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3800
I bought this guitar around 1982. I played it in the high school marching band. It is a marvelous instrument that has always deserved a better player than myself. That being said, my only consolation in letting it go is that whoever owns it next plays the hell out it. They didn't call this model the Ripper for nothing and rock stars have long sought after this model built during this time. It sounds beautiful and it is painful for me to sell it. But I don't play it often and my home air ... more
1975 Gibson The Ripper L9-S Vintage Electric Bass Ebony, Alder Body w / Case
Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3800
Up for sale, a 1975 Gibson "The Ripper" L9-S bass in 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original hardshell case. One of the more unique and versatile Gibson basses ever produced, the Ripper comes equipped with its original pair of Bill Lawrence designed "Super Humbucker" pickups and a four-way rotary switch for series, parallel, and out of phase pickup settings
The contoured alder body (as opposed to maple) is a particularly uncommon option, only offered ... more
The contoured alder body (as opposed to maple) is a particularly uncommon option, only offered ... more
Gibson Ripper (L9-S) Bass Guitar with Seymour Duncan
New Florence, Pennsylvania, 159**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$3500
Gibson Ripper (L9-S) Bass Guitar with Seymour Duncan.
This bass is in very good condition. There are a few small marks located in the pictures. Feel free to ask questions, can send more pictures. Must have at least 10 positive comments to purchase. For sale in the United States Only
... more
This bass is in very good condition. There are a few small marks located in the pictures. Feel free to ask questions, can send more pictures. Must have at least 10 positive comments to purchase. For sale in the United States Only
... more
Vintage 1967 Guild Starfire Bass Black
New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2795
Vintage original 1967 Guild Starfire Bass that has been refinished and a pickguard fashioned to it as well as other signs of work that has been done.
We don't see any cracks or repairs which is a big plus
Neck angle is good and action is good and it plays well
The pickups are original and they have a real warm and organic tone
Looks like the F holes have been enlarged a bit and the headstock re-shaped. They saved the serial number prior to sanding for a refinish and re ... more
We don't see any cracks or repairs which is a big plus
Neck angle is good and action is good and it plays well
The pickups are original and they have a real warm and organic tone
Looks like the F holes have been enlarged a bit and the headstock re-shaped. They saved the serial number prior to sanding for a refinish and re ... more
Gibson L-9 S The Ripper Bass Guitar (Serial # 00157884)
Raleigh, North Carolina, 276**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2700
This vintage Gibson L9S RIPPER electric bass guitar is a rare find for any musician. Made in the United States in 1976, this guitar features a solid body type with a natural wood / clear body color. I inherited this bass and I am not a very musical person. I know it is in good shape and in working order. I will provide more pictures upon request. Serious inquiries only please
... more
Gibson Nikki Sixx Signature Blackbird Thunderbird Electric Bass w / OHSC
Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2499
Used but not abused. Everything works exactly how it should. Ships in its hard case
Will provide more photos soon. Has a D tuner added
... more
Will provide more photos soon. Has a D tuner added
... more
2022 Gibson Thunderbird IV "Rex Brown" Signature Bass cool clean & unplayed !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2250
Multi-instrumentalist Rex Brown is well-known for his work with legendary metal bands Pantera, Down, and Kill Devil Hill, and his hard-rocking solo album, Smoke on Thisâ??¦ His mint Gibson Rex Brown Signature Thunderbird bass features a mahogany neck and body, and gold hardware with a Hipshot bridge and tuners (including a Drop D Xtender). A pair of powerful Rexbucker T-Bird pickups provide plenty of output and low-end punch. The master tone control is equipped with a push / pull switch that ... more
Gibson Nikki Sixx Signature Blackbird Thunderbird Bass
Benicia, California, 945**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2100
This Gibson Nikki Sixx Signature Blackbird Thunderbird is a dream come true for any rockstar. With a right-handed design, this electric bass guitar is perfect for those who want to take their music to the next level. The body is made of mahogany, giving it a warm and rich sound that is perfect for any occasion. The satin black color adds a touch of elegance to the instrument, making it a true beauty
The fretboard is made of ebony, which adds a unique touch to the guitar. The neck material ... more
The fretboard is made of ebony, which adds a unique touch to the guitar. The neck material ... more
1976 Gibson Ripper L9-S Vintage Bass Ebony Black
San Antonio, Texas, 782**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1990
1976 Gibson Ripper L9-S Vintage Bass Black. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Ground Advantage.
... more
... more
Used 2022 Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass, Inverness Green
Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1665
With unique, superb playability and absolutely dripping with style, the 2022-model Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass holds true as a fantastic bass guitar. It features a mahogany solidbody with a matching neck and an Indian rosewood fingerboard. Two Thunderbird pickups can be individually controlled via the volume control set and a master tone, while the Hipshot Ultralite tuning machines give a crisp tonal lock
This bass is in Near Mint condition, as there are really no particular issues ... more
This bass is in Near Mint condition, as there are really no particular issues ... more
Used 2022 Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass, Faded Pelham Blue
Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1665
With thunderous Gibson sound and style jam-packed into one of the most infamous bass models of all time, the Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass will have you soaring on stage. Built in America in 2022, this awesome bass has a mahogany solidbody, a matching rounded-profile neck and an Indian rosewood fingerboard. The dual Thunderbird pickups have a powerful, gritty tone, each with individual pickup controls and a master tone to round out and stabilize your sound
This bass is in Near Mint ... more
This bass is in Near Mint ... more
De Armond By Guild STARFIRE BASS Guitar Sunburst Semi Hollow w Case Korea Made
Hawthorne, California, 902**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1000
✈️FREE SHIPPING✈️
De Armond By Guild STARFIRE BASS Sunburst Semi Hollow / Case Included
IN EXCELLENT CONDITION
WILL SHIP IT WITH THE CASE ( not the original case for DeArmond but it fits )
HARD CASE IS FOR EPHIPHONE BASS
NOT FOR DE ARMOND
IM USING IT ONLY FOR PROTECTION
PLEASE CHECKTHE PHOTOS CAREFULLY FOR MORE DETAILS
FEEL FREE TO MESSAGE ME IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
... more
De Armond By Guild STARFIRE BASS Sunburst Semi Hollow / Case Included
IN EXCELLENT CONDITION
WILL SHIP IT WITH THE CASE ( not the original case for DeArmond but it fits )
HARD CASE IS FOR EPHIPHONE BASS
NOT FOR DE ARMOND
IM USING IT ONLY FOR PROTECTION
PLEASE CHECKTHE PHOTOS CAREFULLY FOR MORE DETAILS
FEEL FREE TO MESSAGE ME IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
... more
Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird
Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$400
This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
Gibson Thunderbird bass pickgaurd in stainless steel
Moreno Valley, California, 925**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$50
Gibson Thunderbird bass pickguard, stainless steel with t-bird logo cut in. Looks great, original, only a few were made, great condition.... more
1979 WAL PRO 2 Bass in Natural finish. Comes with original hard shell case
London, SW6***, UNITED KINGDOM
£10500
NEW KINGS ROAD VINTAGE GUITARS ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER FOR SALE THIS
1979 WAL PRO 2 BASS NATURAL
Wal Pro 2 bass in great original condition. A superb example of these very sought after basses. Serial Number PB 1309. The bass was logged by WAL in 1979 and sold through Barrett??s of Manchester at that time This is an example of the pre Active series as it actually has the battery compartment and fittings but not actually wired in. Has been owned by the current owner since 1994 and has ... more
1979 WAL PRO 2 BASS NATURAL
Wal Pro 2 bass in great original condition. A superb example of these very sought after basses. Serial Number PB 1309. The bass was logged by WAL in 1979 and sold through Barrett??s of Manchester at that time This is an example of the pre Active series as it actually has the battery compartment and fittings but not actually wired in. Has been owned by the current owner since 1994 and has ... more
Metallica??s Jason Newsted Owned And Played Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1987
Meidrim, SA33***, UNITED KINGDOM
£7900
This bass was owned and played by Jason Newsted. I bought this bass from a renowned auction house in the US in 2022. I have documents to prove authenticity and legitimacy. Please ask if you are seriously interested
The bass is in excellent condition. It has some marks of use, but I guess this is what you are looking for when owing a celebrity owned instrument
I am a huge Metallica fan, but I am a guitarist and do not play bass very often. An instrument needs to be used, ... more
The bass is in excellent condition. It has some marks of use, but I guess this is what you are looking for when owing a celebrity owned instrument
I am a huge Metallica fan, but I am a guitarist and do not play bass very often. An instrument needs to be used, ... more