The Westone Thunder I-A, built in the legendary Matsumoku factory in Japan, is one of the most respected 1980s Japanese electric guitars. Read more.
The Westone Thunder I-A, built in the legendary Matsumoku factory in Japan, is one of the most respected 1980s Japanese electric guitars thanks to its exceptional build quality, distinctive styling and powerful active electronics. Designed as a premium, forward-thinking instrument, the Thunder I-A features a neck-through construction, solid ash body wings, and a multi-laminate central neck section for outstanding sustain and stability.
Equipped with dual Westone humbuckers, plus an onboard active boost and tone circuitry, this model delivers everything from warm vintage cleans to aggressive, modern drive tones. Its intuitive control layout includes coil-split switches, active boost toggle and independent volume/tone controls, offering enormous tonal flexibility for studio use or live performance.
A true Matsumoku-era classic, the Thunder I-A remains a sought-after model among collectors and players who appreciate high-quality Japanese craftsmanship.
Model: Thunder I-A
Serial Number: 1110536 (Matsumoku Japan)
Construction: Neck-Through
Body Wings: Ash
Centre Section: Multi-laminate Maple/Mahogany
Finish: Natural Gloss
Neck: Maple (centre-laminate through-body)
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Frets: 22
Scale Length: 25.5″ (648 mm)
Nut Width: 42 mm
Pickups:
Neck: Westone Humbucker
Bridge: Westone Humbucker
Electronics:
Active Circuitry (Boost/Tone Enhancer)
Passive/Active Toggle Switch
Coil Split Switches (for each pickup)
Controls:
Master Volume
Master Tone
Active Gain / Boost Control
Switching: 3-Way Pickup Selector
Bridge: Adjustable Brass Bridge
Tailpiece: String-Through-Body
Tuners: Westone Enclosed Gear
Hardware: Brass + Chrome Mixed Period Style
Special Features:
Classic Matsumoku build quality
Powerful active system for boosted tones
Neck-through design for exceptional sustain
Distinctive natural ash look with centre strip