NAMM 2014

[rowbo777]

Looks like it will be a like or hate situation from most of the comments thus far.
Would have liked to see the wide neck on the 12's like the Laguna but with the RCA look ie standard bridge.

Can't help thinking this finish would look best on a 4004, brown natural is definitely more popular in the bass world.
All the same its great Rickenbacker is doing something a bit different for 2014, good job guys.

[deaconblues]

Rickenbacker is doing something a bit different

A bit.

[cassius987]

If it's rare or limited somehow it'll probably cost more wouldn't you think?

If I'm not mistaken, I think there's significantly less investment in the finishing department with an oil finish. I also believe walnut might be a cheaper wood. The 650D was very affordable in its time.

This is where I was coming from, exactly.

Yeah, I figured this was what you meant... but I think it's just as likely that RIC could see these instruments as a diversion from their usual work flow and inflate the cost their dealers must pay. Or they could do it just because they feel like it. Or they may not charge extra at all, but the dealers still may ask their customers to pay more, expecting a high demand relative to a low supply. Etc.

It'll be interesting to see how it plays out. Even if they are cheaper, I have no need of another bass. But the concept is really cool. I agree with one poster that I might like it even better on a 4004 than a 4003, but then I guess people would be complaining that it's just a return to the 4004Ci.

[cjj]

Well, I have no NEED for another bass but... I have a feeling I'm gonna end up gettin' one...

[ajish4]

I'll personally evaluate a bass, a six string, and a twelve-string, and report back.

I'm shocked; there haven't been any complaints about the new models from folks who complain there are never any new models. . . .

I think its a cool addition for sure!

When the 380L came out, I thought....that is sexy. I remember a lot of guys loving the RCA LE too and a good number of guys still like the original walnut Cheyenne. IMHO, I think it's a neat choice and gives a lot of people another opportunity to get a walnut guitar.

CJ, I might be right there with you. I think the MSRP will decide how popular this is, for me anyway!

[rickenbrother]

Of course, they look even nicer in person. Paulie and I got a sneak peek at all the new goodies just before Christmas.

I agree with one poster that I might like it even better on a 4004 than a 4003, but then I guess people would be complaining that it's just a return to the 4004Ci.

There never was a Laredo made like that with chrome hardware, at least not one that I know of.

[loverickbass]

I hope they don't charge extra for a guitar with no finish.

[bassduke49]

Well, whad'ya wknow!

Not much. You?

[rowbo777]

Looks like it will be a like or hate situation from most of the comments thus far.
Would have liked to see the wide neck on the 12's like the Laguna but with the RCA look ie standard bridge.

Can't help thinking this finish would look best on a 4004, brown natural is definitely more popular in the bass world.
All the same its great Rickenbacker is doing something a bit different for 2014, good job guys.

I learn something everyday , did not know the 4004 was orginally done in Walnut with Gold hardware (4004ci)...beautiful. Rickenbacker do know what's best.

[bassduke49]

There never was a Laredo made like that with chrome hardware, at least not one that I know of.

Well, the first production "4004" was the special RCA models (of which maybe a dozen were made) which had chrome hardware, and gold back-painted plastic teardrop pickguard and TRC. See "the book" page 102. Thematically, very similar to the new W series.

[bassduke49]

I learn something everyday , did not know the 4004 was orginally done in Walnut with Gold hardware (4004ci)...beautiful. Rickenbacker do know what's best.

Hmm. Someone needs "the book."

[8mileshigher]

Question for Paul B --- are your books going to be on exhibit at NAMM ?

[Tommy]

Put my vote down for a LIKE.
Like a lot.

Beautiful, different, guitars.

[Captain Bob]

Hmmm, I wouldn't say they're exactly 'coffee table' guitars and basses. But, I'm not feeling it.

[rowbo777]

Next question is the tone.
With the oil finish will they be more resonant, open and louder acoustically?
Awaiting the evaluation.