Bass of the Week: The McGrath Thunderhorse IV Is a Tonal Swiss Army Knife
McGrath Guitars teamed up with The Bass Channel to create the Thunderhorse, a bass they call the “ultimate tonal multi-tool.” The model comes in many variations, but we’re checking out a recent build with a Creamsicle finish and the “Wombo Combo” pickup configuration. That includes EMG HZ passive TB, P, and J pickups.
“For ultimate tonal control, each pickup is paired with its own dedicated Switchcraft on/off slider, allowing for a massive variety of tonal combinations,” McGrath explains. “The neck pickup is in our updated position, allowing more room for slapping.”
The “one of everything” layout is matched to an EMG BQ30 preamp featuring a 3-band EQ running at 18 volts. The higher voltage offers maximum headroom and a clean, punchy tone, but an active/passive switch lets you dial in a more vintage sound.
McGrath builds the bass with a solid mahogany body, a roasted flame maple neck, and a roasted flame maple fingerboard. Hardware includes a Badass bridge and lightweight tuners.
Although this bass is just off the bench, you can learn more about the Thunderhorse design in this video with The Bass Channel:
McGrath Guitars Thunderhorse IV Creamsicle Photos:
McGrath Guitars Thunderhorse IV Creamsicle Specs:
| Scale Length: | 34″ |
| Body: | Solid Mahogany |
| Neck: | Roasted Flame Maple |
| Fingerboard: | Roasted Flame Maple |
| Frets: | 21 Stainless Steel |
| Nut Width: | 1.5″ |
| Radius: | 12″ |
| Pickups: | EMG HZ passive TB, P and J |
| Switching: | Switchcraft Sliders for Pickup Selection |
| Knobs: | Volume (Push/Pull), Center Detent 3 Band EQ Bass, Mid Treble |
| Push-Pull Function: | True Bypass Active/Passive |
| Bridge: | Badass High Mass |
| Tuning Machines: | Badass Lightweights |
| Hardware Finish: | Nickel |
| Pickguard: | Cream |
| Weight: | 8.4 lbs |
| Case: | Gator Gig Bag |
In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.
