Rick Resource Limited Edition Bass?

jnbass · Post by **jnbass** » Sat Feb 21, 2004 3:29 pm

I'll take 2!!!

cheyenne · Post by **cheyenne** » Sat Feb 21, 2004 3:39 pm

Since we all wouldnt be here as a collective if not for Peter McCormack, I'd really like to hear his input. How about it Peter?

bear · Post by **bear** » Sat Feb 21, 2004 3:54 pm

Probably the easiest model to a build a suitably unique "Rick Resource" Ltd. Edition bass from would be the 4001 C64.
The only feature that would be different from current production would be a non-reversed headstock. Which IIRC was the biggest whine heard about the "C" series basses. Make it a one time only, never before used, colour and we're done.

jps · Post by **jps** » Sat Feb 21, 2004 4:02 pm

Lest we all forget...21 frets!

atomic_punk · Post by **atomic_punk** » Sat Feb 21, 2004 7:47 pm

Bear,
I would have to say that the problem with that is the inlay and the binding...no go. I'm not a big fan of the "S" look.

marc61 · Post by **marc61** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 1:48 am

There would have to be a "TRF" somewhere on the bass as well.

admin · Post by **admin** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 2:12 am

The discussion concerning a 4001V68 is most interesting and the idea is certainly appealing. I have often looked at the photo of the factory rack in the RIC 1968 catalog.

The beauty of selecting the 1968 Model 4001 is that it clearly defines the parameters of this project. Only 20 frets in the photo shown here and I have noted 1968 models with 20 frets on a number of occasions. All that remains is the finish, and Fireglo would have my vote.

It goes without saying that, should John Hall consider such a request, that this model would be added to a very long list. Nontheless, it would be interesting to hear from Mr. Hall about the feasibility of such a model including the "nuts and bolts" of dealer involvement, deposit, final cost, waiting time and the number of units.

This discussion has come up before, however, there was no real consensus as to a model. The fact the RIC is operating a 100% capacity has also been a stubling block. I suspect, however, that a limited edition run such as this would have considerable appeal and would sell out rather quickly.

beatlefan · Post by **beatlefan** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 4:11 am

I'd go for the fireglo if they could produce it in that already aged look with less of the maple showing through....I hate that "hole" effect....

Mr Hall,
I'd like to order 1 each 4001V68 in fireglo, please...

bottom4 · Post by **bottom4** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 4:22 am

This would be too cool if it happens!

The color would have to be FG or MG so we could admire the walnut wings... either one, I'm OK...

Let me know whom I should place my order with!

cheers

jps · Post by **jps** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 5:08 am

I'd go for the MG as I want something different from my '73 4001 in FG. If it weren't for the wings I'd prefer JG or BG.

turlu · Post by **turlu** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 5:14 am

I admit the idea is very interesting. My vote goes to the 4001V68 too !

philco · Post by **philco** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 6:36 am

I can get a bass with a 3-piece graphite reinforced neck, 24 frets, Aguilar OBP-1 preamp, hardcase, "old world craftsmanship" that isn't just a catchphrase (in the same class as custom $2500 American basses), no pickup covers in the way, unsurpassed ergonomics, outstanding reliability, modern killer tone, lightweight, in mint condition for around $600.....and I'm going to put down money on a special order vintage RIC bass, wait who knows how long, and pay "new bass" price when it arrives??? Hmmm......I think I'll get another one of the above Czech Republic imports in something besides amber stain finish next time. Only $900 + $120 for hardcase if I decide to go new (which I don't have to).

RIC should concentrate on getting new 4004 models out the door, as they are backlogged to the point of losing customers (like me) who go on a search for a good used one and buy that one instead....and/or they stumble across an absolutely fantastic competitor bass in the meantime that is seriously undervalued in the market, but steadily gaining favor with the next generation of bassists, which guarantees no loss of value if resale/trade-in time ever comes around. Then the potential new customer heads down that route, away from RIC. And RIC is asked to do this to satisfy a few customers wanting a blast from the past? Hmmm, sounds suspect. The vintage RIC bass they want is probably out there on the used market anyway. Mine was, and I saved money to boot over the cost of a new one.

Getting the people necessary to do a limited custom run is also a stumbling block, and getting THAT many people on THIS forum to agree on ANYTHING would be a minor miracle.

The cost would be MORE and not less than current production price, which I have little intention of paying anyway. I suspect JH is more concerned about doing profitable things than "cool" things right now. His employees have families that have to eat, like the rest of us. The more reasonable approach would be to head out on a search of the vintage bass you want on the used market. That's why I have the RIC bass I wanted, and it's not quite like current production. It stands out in a crowd. If RIC reissued a production model just like it, the resale value would probably decrease, and then PHIL WOULD NOT BE HAPPY, as if anybody cared.

Your bass is probably already out there. Just go find it. You'll probably have more RIC basses in your stable if you learn how to play the used market, and ISN'T THAT WHAT YOU WANT???

admin · Post by **admin** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 6:51 am

Philip: A topic such as this leads to many thoughts. Of one thing I am certain. THAT, THIS and ANYTHING concerning Rickenbackers makes for interesting discussion and perhaps a few miracles too.

rickcrazy · Post by **rickcrazy** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 7:17 am

Right on!

beatlefan · Post by **beatlefan** » Sun Feb 22, 2004 7:51 am

Gee, Philip.....what an ASTOUNDING thought!! I can't believe that I haven't already thought about looking on the secondary market for a circa '68 RIC bass with the aformentioned appointments....

There are a TON of 4001V63's out there just leaping out at me saying "buy ME!!" My feeling is that you have the RIC bass that you wanted because you purchased it before the prices started rising at a spectacular rate....I have been looking for a nice V63 and am READY, WILLING and ABLE to buy...but they disappear VERY quickly....

I will purchase a "special edition forum" bass if they would ever become available because I WANT one!! Just like I WANT to own a NEW GMC Sierra pickup truck...I don't WANT a Nissan or a TOYOTA...Plain and simple.....to each his own as he sees fit.....