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The new 4003S Rickenbackers have such a cleaner look than the more common 4003s with binding and pearloid fret markers. I think the sound might be more true to an original as the body does feel much less bulky and wood weight can affect the tone. When the vintage switch is popped it snarls like Chris Squiers bass in Yes. If you have flats on it and use the neck pickup then you're in Beatles territory. One extreme to the other.. this bass is an incredible and classic instrument.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Along with the recent acquisition of the C64 in the past I have owned a left handed 1971 4001, a lefty Chris Squire 4001 signature model and at present also own a left handed 4001V63. These three models all have some common features with the C64 plus now having spent some play time with it I feel qualified in writing this review. First off let me state that I probably would call myself a Fender guy. I have been playing for some time now, started in 1969, and personally feel that the Fender Precision is the most versatile bass guitar going. If a voice from above called down and told me I could only own one bass from now on, for work and fun, the P Bass would be my choice. That aside, what is the one bass that I enjoy playing more than any other? Without hesitation my answer is the RIC 4001. There is just something about the beautifully designed body, perfect balance, a neck that feels and plays like no other plus the signature Rickenbacker sound that for me combine to set this bass guitar apart from all the rest. The C64 is a accurate reproduction of the original left handed export model 4001S (RM1999) given to Sir Paul by Rickenbacker by most accounts in August of 1964. The only major difference being the modern style upgrading of the truss rod system which now allows for safe use of round wound strings. Some right handed players have balked about Rickenbackers decision to include the reverse headstock on the C64 but true McCartney aficionados would not have it any other way. We left handed players have had to deal with this issue all along until the introduction of the 4003 model. Some owners of later model year RIC basses have also voiced some displeasure with the limited output from the C64 vintage style toaster and horseshoe pickups. I also noticed what I thought was a reduced amount of output from the C64 compared to my V63 model which supposedly has the identical pickup arrangement. I gave Rickenbacker a call and was told this was perfectly normal. Whatever the case the vintage style pickups on the C64 definitely do have less output than their more modern, later issue 4001 and 4003 brothers so it is safe to say there is a difference. However the bottom line is if you are looking for the vintage look, feel and sound of the early 4001 McCartney style bass you will be more than pleased with the C64. The C64 plays and sounds as fine as any RIC 4001 bass I have ever had in my hands. Fit and finish live up to Rickenbackers legendary standard of excellence. Get ahold of a Rickenbacker C64 yourself and I bet it will not be long before you have a smile on your face too. In regards to the reduced output issue on the early style toaster and horseshoe pickups I think that I have found an answer. On my 4001V63 I wanted to bring up the output of the bridge PU. With the expert guidance of my friend Mark Barter we removed the .0047 capacitor from the horseshoe. This immediately brought the PU to life with added midrange and punch. However it was now overpowering the neck PU. With the toaster PU in its fully raised position it was still being drowned out. The bass was now unbalanced. Both of the vintage style volume potentiometers on the V63, as well as the C64, are rated at 250K. Mark suggested that we change the pot for the toaster PU to 500K and see what happens. He replaced the neck volume pot with a new Switchcraft and Bingo the problem was solved. The bass is now balanced and sounds superb.Read full review
I've always wanted one of these but was hesitant as it usually has a high price point and many people have been disappointed. I've played a few Rics over the years, but this one's simply amazing. Incredible playability and amazing tone!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Very beautiful 4001 Jetglo! Very nice tone, simply a few common aged parts but nothing serious, merely character for it's years. Very happy and sounds great! I put some round wound on her and boy she even makes my mini Ampeg sound like an amplifier and even the 4003 I already have didn't do that. There is something that can't even be said about the real 4001. Very great shipping, great communications and really appreciate it and would do business with this gentlemen again! Highly recommended! Richard
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
this bass is very cool. i had one before and sold it ,. im glad i found this one . its like seeing a old friend again. ya so now it sounds the same and the shipping was a good price but a wee bit slow .. its hard to find good left handed guitars thank you
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Really happy with purchase. Had to do a little with setup, but understandable because of shipping etc etc. Great player, great sound.... buy one if like bass guitars
de la bonne vieille pelle à grosses cordes, bien roots, modjo. excellent commestible. encore, encore. un morceau de l'amérique à traversé l'atlantique.
Finally, I have a simply awesome Rickenbacker Jet Glo 4300. Best looking bass guitar ever!
Verified purchase: No