Gibson RD Artist Model Solid Body Electric Bass Guitar (1977), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, natural finish, laminated maple body and neck, original black hard shell case.
This interesting if ultimately somewhat under-appreciated bass was a product of Gibson's corporate liaison with Moog, both companies being owned by CMI in the 1970's. The initial inspiration came from the Who's John Entwistle; when Gibson approached him as to what he might like the company to make, he asked for a long-scale Explorer bass with active electronics. The RD (which stood rather prosaically for the corporate-speak "Research and Development") was what emerged from this request, although it was not quite what John asked for! The body is maple in a modified Explorer shape, with the curves rounded down somewhat.
The extra-long scale maple neck has a 2-and-2 headstock, and down at the bridge the strings run through the body. The electronics are the most interesting feature; the two pickups are active, with boost/cut tone controls and an "expansion/compression" switch. This design was contributed by Bob Moog, who was technically working for CMI at the time. CMI was trying to position Gibson in the vanguard of electric guitar developments, as pioneered by the likes of Alembic, and the RD series stands as at the least a bold attempt to modernize the company's offerings. What emerged is a large, rather heavy but powerful sounding bass guitar that is utterly distinctive in both look and sound!
Overall length is 48 1/2 in. (123.2 cm.), 15 in. (38.1 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 34 1/2 in. (876 mm.). Width of nut is 1 5/8 in. (41 mm.). Very nice original condition overall, some light wear generally but no major finish loss or repair. An excellent player, with a very wide range of sounds. Excellent - Condition.
