360 or 620?

[rednebb]

Hello, I’m a “newbie” here who’s on the market for my first Rickenbacker. On the top of my wishlist is a a 360 Fireglo, but they’re either impossible to find, or extremely overpriced.. But I just came over a 620 Fireglo in perfect condition and at a very good price, so now I’m thinking maybe this would be a better buy..? I need some advice from someone who maybe owns, or has owned/tried both models, how do they compare in terms of playability and sound? For instance, does the 360’s semi-hollow body really have much effect on the sound compared to the 620, when plugged in? What are the advantages/disadvantages of the one or the other? Which one would you choose, and why?

Thanks!

[doctorwho]

Welcome, Ketil!

I own examples of each so I will give you my opinion.

... how do they compare in terms of playability and sound? ...

They are equally playable to me, and both are just as comfortable when strapped on my shoulder.

... does the 360’s semi-hollow body really have much effect on the sound compared to the 620, when plugged in? ...

The semi-hollow body definitely has a different character to the sound, even plugged in. It's difficult to quantify, but I'd say the sound was "beefier" compared to that from the 620. Of course, adjusting the amplifier controls can change things around, too.

... What are the advantages/disadvantages of the one or the other? ...

With the 360, one can practice unplugged and still hear what one is playing. It's a little harder with the 620, obviously. I can't really think of any other specifics for either advantages or disadvantages (unless the 620 is slightly lighter ... I don't remember what their respective weights are).

... Which one would you choose, and why? ...

My go-to six string is a Model 460 from 1981, which is a solid-body similar to the 620. It just feels and sounds so nice. However, my go-to 12-string is a Model 370/12RM ... it just sounds and plays great, too.

I would think that you would actually like either one. Of course, if you have an opportunity to play either (or both), do so.

[Clint]

It's hard to explain. While my 360 and 620 feel different, they both feel like a Ric. The 360's tone is a little rounder, more dimensional than the 620, but they both sound like a Ric. If you like the bite of a Fender Telecaster, you'd like the 620. If you mostly play sitting down, the 360 is a touch more comfortable. If you can get either one at a very good price, snag it.

[scotty]

I think what Gary said is the best advice go and try them out for yourself and see what your more comfortable with.Personally id go for a 330.I have a 620/360 but i much prefer the 330s.Decisions decisions.....What i would say and this is just personal but i dont see and advantages or disadvantages over the 2 models they are both great guitars.

[rednebb]

Ok, thanks for your advice guys. There are not many Rickenbackers around where I live, but the good thing is I'm going to London next week, so then I'd probably get the chance to try both models and see which one I like best.
Another thing: I noticed that the 620 has a neck-through-body construction, is that an advantage or disadvantage in any way, do you think? I have another guitar with that feature (Carvin), and I have always had a bit of trouble with that one, the neck keeps getting out of shape, and I have to adjust the neck/truss rod too often. Is this a general problem with body-through necks, or is it just my Carvin..?

Ketil

[rickenbrother]

Welcome to the forum, Ketil. I own a few RIC instruments. I set them up when I buy them and I rarely ever have to adjust them again.
A properly setup and maintained Rickenbacker will give it's owner a lifetime of happiness.
I'm a bassist, so I'll leave the advice for the guitar models to the guitarists on the forum. Good luck finding the right Rickenbacker guitar for you.

[tyarbrough]

Well I would have to say "both."

[Clint]

Ok, thanks for your advice guys. There are not many Rickenbackers around where I live, but the good thing is I'm going to London next week, so then I'd probably get the chance to try both models and see which one I like best.
Another thing: I noticed that the 620 has a neck-through-body construction, is that an advantage or disadvantage in any way, do you think? I have another guitar with that feature (Carvin), and I have always had a bit of trouble with that one, the neck keeps getting out of shape, and I have to adjust the neck/truss rod too often. Is this a general problem with body-through necks, or is it just my Carvin..?

Ketil

Whether the neck is set or through, the construction of the neck itself is the same. Set neck Rics have a very long tenon anyway so the difference is minimal. They set up the same and tend to behave the same as well. Neck problems are scary but to be honest, with modern materials and construction techniques, it is very rare that I come across guitars of any brand or price point, with serious neck problems.

[sodbuster]

For someones first Rick a 360 is a great choice, because its more of a classic IMO, My first Rick was a 360 I recently got a 620/12 and I love both of them equally, the smaller body of the 620 is more comfortable for me to play, so if you prefer a smaller guitar I would lean towards the 620, really a no lose situation, sound wise its more dependant on the talent of the guitarist than it is the body construction

[nick_st_hilaire]

LOL, I have both guitars as well. I agree the 620 has more bite and seems to cut through a little better in a live mix, but the 360's tone seems a bit more complex.

They both probably weight the same amount. The 620 is obviously a little smaller which can be comfortable but I do bang up the anterior forearm of my picking hand on the sharp edge of the body face whereas the 360 is rounded.

Strangely, I haven't A-B'd them at home. I really need to get around to it. I've been playing the 620 at practice and gigs because it's newer to me, but I've been getting a longing to take out the 360 too.

Really, you can't go wrong with either.

[rednebb]

I just wanted you to know I ended up with a 360 Fireglo (which was really the one I wanted most in the first place), I found a very clean 2000 model on ebay for $1495 plus shipping, and I'm very happy with it!

[antipodean]

Congrats Ketil!

[Clint]

Sweet.

[8mileshigher]

Congratulations Ketil.
Post some pics when you get a chance, so we can share in your happiness and tell you what a fantastic, one-of-a-kind shade of FireGlo you have !

[rednebb]

Here is my new love: