480 question

Vintage, Modern, V & C Series, Signature & Special Editions

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epitreture
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480 question

Post by epitreture »

I realize the 480 was based on the 4000 series basses, but I was wondering how they compared in terms of body size and headstock size? If anyone knows, I'd appreciate it. Thanks.
If there isn't a 12 string Rickenbacker playing at my funeral, I'm leaving.
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ken_j
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Post by ken_j »

Melibee has one of each.
"The best things in life aren't things."
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melibreits
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Post by melibreits »

No, I just have this 481, restored and refinned by Paul W (shown here posing before a gig with my 330/12):

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Although it has roughly the same body and headstock shape as the 4000 series basses, the body is quite a bit thinner from front to back, and lighter, and I think a little smaller than a bass body.... and the headstock is much smaller than a bass headstock, but is proportioned to look just right on the guitar.
"Once I've held and played the best, baby, I won't settle for less!"
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doctorwho
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Post by doctorwho »

Brian, I'll try to get a few pictures taken in the next couple of days showing a 480 next to a 4000 series bass.
It is better, of course, to know useless things than to know nothing. - Seneca
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epitreture
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Post by epitreture »

Thanks Gary, I'd appreciate it. BTW Melissa, that is one of the most beautiful guitars I've ever laid eyes on. Paul is incredibly talented.
If there isn't a 12 string Rickenbacker playing at my funeral, I'm leaving.
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4003
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Post by 4003 »

I put my 1976 480 on top of my 1986 4003 and lined them up. The 4003 is slightly wider in spots mostly due to the bound body on the 4003. The only contoured bass I have is a 4001CS. When I put the 480 on the CS, the bodies were nearly identical. Only the upper horn was slightly off. The headstock is definitely smaller on the 480 than either bass. The photos were taken directly above so you can see the differences.
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rickcrazy
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Post by rickcrazy »

Cool 480.
A Rickenbacker bass is much like the Jaguar E car - perennially ultra-fashionable.
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epitreture
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Post by epitreture »

Interesting! Thanks Bob!
If there isn't a 12 string Rickenbacker playing at my funeral, I'm leaving.
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