360/12c63 or a C series 325?

[ayoungmusiciandude]

Greetings Readers,

So I'm kind of stuck between a huge decision and wonder if I can get some thoughts.


I recently sold my 360/12v64 at a guitar center outside of Burlington VT. It got more than I expected and with my savings enough to afford a new Rick, a C series model at that!

I went to this great music shop in Clifton Park NY called Parkway Music. To my surprise they had not only a Rickenbacker 325c64 but a 360/12c63

I played and loved both dearly, so much so I put cash down to buy one...yet I still can't decide which one to go for.

They both are awesome in their own regard but which one would stand up better to a modern venue? I play a huge variety of tunes and styles and while both aren't exactly built for contemporary concerts but which of the 2 would you recommend to a guy in a 1 classic rock band, 2 punk bands, a jazz ensemble and plays at blues bars?

I plan to use whichever one as my main stage guitar so it'll be under heavy use.

I'd love for the wisdom from experienced Rick-fans!

[jdogric12]

I would only want a C series guitar if I was looking to recreate the vintage Beatles sound. For what you're doing, a nice 70's, 80's or very early 90's stock 360 or 330 might be best!

[Tommy]

I agree with above poster. Those guitars are Beatle specific. I recommend a non-C series Ric for what you want to do.

I have the 325c64. I really only use it to play Beatle tunes (and only early Beatle tunes, at that). Great guitar, but obviously Beatle specific. I play Beatle tunes on it and photograph it. That's all.

[stringsncords]

Probably more versatility with the 6-string C64, but since your sets are varied material and not totally Beatle-specific,
perhaps a 330 or 360 may serve you better, unless you're OK with the 3/4 size. A Jetglo or Fireglo 330 will give you the Beatle "look",
but the 360 has the contoured body and binding....

You have a delightful dilemma! Please let us know your decision.

Have fun!

[chefothefuture]

It really depends on what you want to play.
One is a 6 string and the other a 12.
Also, the 6 string is a short scale.

Sit down with both and give them a good play.

I'd go for the 12... But that's just me.

Beatles schmeetles... Play what you want.

[jdogric12]

I agree with above poster.

Who has a name, btw LOL

Hey! My eyes are up HERE!

[arbiter]

Parkway Music is probably my favorite guitar shop. I drop in anytime i'm in the area. They had the 1993+ last time I was there. Did you consider that as an option?

[Clint]

...which of the 2 would you recommend to a guy in a 1 classic rock band, 2 punk bands, a jazz ensemble and plays at blues bars?

That's quite a bit of ground for any one guitar to cover. Let alone one being a 12 string and the other a short scale. I'm guessing for the vast majority of guitar players would choose a six string but it's your life, get whatever speaks to you.

One other thing, why did you sell the 360/12v64? Wouldn't the c63 be right up the same alley?

[kt66]

reading your requirements, I'd get a Gretsch,

[Clint]

Or a Strat.

[antipodean]

Of the two, the 325 will suit the multiple genres better. It's really not as limited as some might think, particularly if you have a good rig and pedal board. People with large hands can find the upper register of the 325 a little difficult to adjust to, as the frets are just that more tightly spaced. If that's not an issue for you, then that's great!

[ayoungmusiciandude]

Hey guys! I actually got the 325c64. With the proper amplification and pedals it can elicit any sounds! Great playability! However I just got to try a C58 for the first time. Currently looking to trade my C64 for a C58.

[stringsncords]

" Currently looking to trade my C64 for a C58."

Why ?

You seem to be all over the place....ironically, the V64 seemed to be a great instrument for your varied needs.

Good Luck - I hope you ultimately find what makes you happy.

[jdogric12]

Have you ever played a Kaufmann? You know they're junk, right? Practically unusable. JL putting the Bigsby on was a no-brainer. Are you going to do that? Seems like you might want to stick with the C64. Other than being a little lighter in weight I don't see the C58 advantage for a player, only for a collector.

[stringsncords]

What Jason said^^^^^

Plus, because the C58 is more or less a collector's guitar now, you'll pay more for a guitar with more issues than the C64.