Used Gibson RD Artist Bass Guitar, Moog Electronics, Ebony Finish, Kurt Novak Model, Hard Case

1978 Gibson RD Artist Bass - Original Ebony Finish (Moog Electronics)

This is a legendary, first-year 1978 Gibson RD Artist Bass in its original factory Ebony finish. Renowned for its massive, distinct body shape and groundbreaking active onboard electronics designed in partnership with Moog, the RD Artist is a holy grail for players seeking heavy, thumping, and experimental tones. This specific bass is the exact model and color configuration famously favored by Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic during the *Nevermind* era. Showing decades of honest stage experience, this is a spectacular, fully functional player-grade vintage monster.

Specifications & Technical Setup Model: RD Artist Bass.
Year / Origin: 1978 / USA.
Finish: Original Ebony (Black) Gloss.
Fingerboard: Ebony.
Hardware: All-original Gibson hardware, including the original tuning machines and heavy-duty bridge.
Electronics: 100% original factory Moog active circuit layout. Includes independent compression and expansion/EQ toggle switches, master volume, separate neck/bridge tone controls, and a 3-way pickup selector switch.
Setup: Professionally benched and calibrated for effortless playability with low, fast action.
Included Accessories: Modern molded hardshell case (custom-modified internally to perfectly fit the unique contours of the RD body). Condition & Player-Grade Wear Note

The instrument is in fair cosmetic condition, exhibiting a tremendous amount of genuine mojo and player wear from being loved and played heavily over the last several decades. Crucially, the bass is structurally sound with no wood breaks, no neck cracks, and no structural wood repairs.

Specific Cosmetic Wear: The headstock has historically been exposed to localized heat, resulting in superficial heat damage, bubbling, and discoloration to the nitrocellulose finish along the very top edge. The original truss rod cover is also warped from this heat exposure. Additionally, the plastic rear control cavity cover panel shows some cracks and exhibits an old, stable plastic repair at one of the screw points. The rest of the body shows widespread scuffs, dings, and honest finish wear expected of an active vintage instrument.

Neck, Frets & Playability: In spite of its battle-worn exterior, this bass plays beautifully. The neck is remarkably straight, the truss rod functions exactly as intended, and the premium ebony fingerboard feels slick. The frets remain in good condition with plenty of life left, noting out cleanly up and down the scale.

Electronics Performance: The original Moog active preamp circuitry has been thoroughly tested and works flawlessly. The compression and expansion switches engage cleanly, offering an immense array of punchy, scooped, or aggressive tones that run completely quiet and sound absolutely massive.

If you are looking for an incredible, road-tested vintage icon that brings unmistakable style, historic tone, and legendary playability without the pristine collector price tag, this RD Artist is completely dialed in and ready to be enjoyed.