NAMM update from Chris (Embassy and Tbird content)

[veebass]

We're just trying to figure out if the new Epiphone basses will still be affordable come Summer. I think they still will be, Mexican basses on the other hand... on second thought I better 

I can see the argument affecting MIM Fenders.
But with respect to Epiphone's it may not be as clear. Mightn't that depend on where they are built and shipped from and where they are going to?
Does anyone know whether Epi's bound for the non US parts of the world even go through the US? It would seem strange for the US government to apply punitive tariffs on goods made outside it's borders for sale outside it's borders. But hey, strange days indeed.
Do we know where the new TBirds are going to be built for sure? The discussion seems to be China. Doesn't Epiphone still build stuff in South Korea?
The other uncertainty, of course, is the CITES Dalbergia (Rosewood) issue.
Sadowsky has put info on his website that indicates they won't be shipping basses with Rosewood them for some months at least. There is also a reference to them being unsure as to whether they will be able to meet the requirements to export Rosewood even after they have the master permit.

https://sadowsky.com/a-note-on-the-export-of-instruments-containing-rosewood/

I have just written to the Australian importer of Gibson brands.

I understand that Epiphone recently announced a number of new models for 2017 at NAMM. This included a Thunderbird Vintage Pro Bass, replacing the current Thunderbird Classic Pro, and an Embassy Pro Bass.
The information provided indicated availability from July 2017.

Are you able to advise when these new lines will be available in Australia?

Are you able to advise whether current uncertainty as to possible US tariff changes associated with production by US companies outside of the US would affect availability and price of these new lines in Australia?

Can you advise where these new lines will be manufactured?

Are you able to advise whether recent (1/1/17) changes to CITES affecting the international trade in Dalbergia (Rosewood) species would affect price and availability of these new lines in Australia?

Thank you for your time.

I will post any reply I may get.

[Dave W]

Since Gibson opened its own plant in China, almost all Epis are made there. I think there are very few exceptions, e.g. the Jack Casady bass is still MIK.

[veebass]

Since Gibson opened its own plant in China, almost all Epis are made there. I think there are very few exceptions, e.g. the Jack Casady bass is still MIK.

Thanks, mate.

[pilgrim9]

I ordered a white Bird from Sweetwater today   

Hi, I want a black one! I called Sweetwater today and they did not know anything about these t birds. Who did you talk to or do you have an inside line at Sweetwater?

[eb2]

And I'm still wondering what we are overlooking with that Pro Vintage Thunderbird. They must have f•cked up somewhere?!

It's got the d-bag version jack.  Easy fix.  Also, no curvy tug bar, but easy fix.  Paint it all white and play Mott the Hoople.

[Chris P.]

Scroll up, mr. Pilgrim. Summer 2017, 2018 models.

[Dave W]

Scroll up, mr. Pilgrim. Summer 2017, 2018 models.

Mark said he ordered one from Sweetwater, so someone there must know about it even though it's not available yet.

[Chris P.]

I got my info, with prices, from a Gibson rep. So there is info. I guess they're producing and it will take some months between producing and shops.

[Dave W]

Maybe Mark will explain how he was able to order one.

[dadagoboi]

Maybe Mark will explain how he was able to order one.

On TB he said Sweetwater hadn't heard about the new model but took his order anyway.

[ilan]

That Century ABG looks awesome. Any idea what the street price will be?

[Basvarken]

Suggested retail price is set at $1665. But that will not be street price of course.

Beautiful bass indeed.

[ilan]

Googled and saw that L.A. Music lists the Masterbilt Century De Luxe Bass for ($1,419 CAD) US$1,088. 

Last bass I bought new was in 1979 (T40). Maybe it's time. It's the closest I'll get to Uwe's fretless Super 400 bass.

https://www.lamusic.com/collections/epiphone-masterbilt-century/products/etdbvnnh

[Basvarken]

Thank you for the link.

They also advertise the new Embassy at 411 USD!
https://www.lamusic.com/collections/4-string-electric-bass/products/ebemdcnh


And the new Thunderbird at 656 USD!
https://www.lamusic.com/collections/4-string-electric-bass/products/ebtvtsnh

[Dave W]

That's more like it.