Noob seeks advice on his first Ric 12

[houblues]

I have a 330, which I love. I have a 12 string that is passable but by no means a Ric. So I am interested in acquiring my first Ric 12. The problem is that I really don't know the differences between the various models (aside from that some have the Vintage Pickups) or what a fair price for one is. Note that I do not need a museum showpiece so would not want to pay for that. Perhaps I should just ask the question this way... which model would you recommend as being the best value for a first Ric 12 and about what should I expect to pay?

[jdogric12]

I have a 330, which I love. I have a 12 string that is passable but by no means a Ric. So I am interested in acquiring my first Ric 12. The problem is that I really don't know the differences between the various models (aside from that some have the Vintage Pickups) or what a fair price for one is. Note that I do not need a museum showpiece so would not want to pay for that. Perhaps I should just ask the question this way... which model would you recommend as being the best value for a first Ric 12 and about what should I expect to pay?

Welcome, Patrick. Check out rickenbacker.com for specs on all models. If you like your 330, you will probably want to stick with the 300 series. A 360/12 will run you a little more than a 330/12, but it's nice to have the stereo output that only those deluxe models have. A 620/12 would be a totally different animal altogether, with the smaller solid body. You can probably find a 330/12 with some wear for around $1000 without looking too hard.

[melibreits]

Hey Patrick, welcome to the Forum!

My first Ric 12-string was a 330/12 in Jetglo--wonderful guitar--easy to play, and great-sounding.... However, last spring I got a 360/12v63, so I hardly ever play the 330 any more.... Since JDog mentioned it, I'd be glad to sell it to you for $1000. Email me off-list to the address in my profile if you're interested, or have questions....

[jingle_jangle]

Two considerations, one of which is a mere personal preference:

Ric 360/12s seem to be easier to find used than 330/12s. That having been said, I prefer both the look (personal preference) and the sound and feel of the 330 to the 360. I honestly wonder what percentage of the 360/12 users actually use the stereo out feature; I do suspect it's a small minority.

If you like JG, Melissa's 330/12 sounds like a really good deal. If and when you find these on Ebay or at dealers, $1000 is about the minimum for a nice one; players rarely go below this in price.

[houblues]

Thanks guys, that is very helpful, as is the thread on 330/12 vs. 360/12. I definitely agree that the 300 series is the one for me. I have emailed Melissa. I'll leave the 360 v series and fancy colors as something else to aspire to.

[jdogric12]

I use the Rick-o-sound stereo output on my 330/12JD all the time. Of course, since it's a 330/12, I had to wire it up myself! And thanks to Paul I was able to put a new hole in the perfectly cracked pickguard without further cracking it. It's cool.

[brianeharmonjr]

I just sold my 360/12 and bought a 330/12, and I must say, I vastly prefer the 330. They are both incredible guitars, so either way you won't be disapointed.

[gregga41]

Hey Patrick,
you're at the right place to,(A)discuss these magnificent guitars,and (B) find one!
Hopefully you find Melibees 330/12 to your liking! I have just bought a 330/12 in Midnight blue,and i love it! I also have a FG360 in a 6 string version! Love it to!
Welcome to the forum!

[fatcat]

As you already have a 330, you can make an assesment as to whether the neck width will be to your liking with 12 strings on it.If it seems like it will be a bit cramped , then you might consider a 660-12, which has a wider neck.