4001CS - Why so many cosmetic problems?

4003seagreen · Post by **4003seagreen** » Thu Oct 10, 2002 8:57 pm

It seems that a good portion of the 4001CS models I've seen on the market have some kind of issue - chips by the bridge, cracked pickguards, discolorization of the grommets by the toaster pickup are a few I can think of off the top of my head. I'd like to purchase one, but for $2300+ I expect it to be near perfect.

gaboik · Post by **gaboik** » Fri Oct 11, 2002 1:14 pm

I have one that I am thinking of putting up for sale. It is still in the original box that it had from factory. I opened it to inspect it, and I removed the made in USA sticker just in case it caused any problems with the pick guard. It is one of the last ones made and has zero flaws. It is truly a great instrument. The neck is a little on the bat style, but the sonic quality is first class.

chucksimms · Post by **chucksimms** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 9:30 am

Mine has a few little cosmetic things, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. The biggest problem with mine is that there's been a discolouration where my arm rests, and on the back where the bass rests against my body. I assume it's where my sweat has reacted with the finish (I gig pretty much every weekend). I might get a re-finish one day...
I can't see prices dropping though. The last few on E-Bay went for $2,000 and $2,900!

levykev · Post by **levykev** » Thu Oct 24, 2002 4:53 am

Yeah, I got mine a few years back and it's great. It did come with a slight crack near the pick-up selector switch and has discolored some where the strap rests against the body along the horn. I looked into getting a new pickguard from Rickenbacker, but I would have to send mine back before they sent a new one. They were very helpful, but I opted to just stay with the original. I have no complaints....I love it. It sounds fantastic. I wonder what Chris Squire's looks like up close???!!!!