I've always wanted a RIC bass but never had the finances to purchase one. I was finally able to purchase my dream bass, a 4003 FireGlo in May of 2000. I was surprised to find that the 4003 seemed to be a real struggle to play compared to my Carvin LB70. I attributed this "struggle" to having to get used to the RIC since the Carvin had been my main bass since 1989.
After several weeks of giving the 4003 a chance, trying to lower the action and truss adjustments, I gave up on the 4003, and with a sense of disappointment, I put the 4003 back in the case and went back to the Carvin. The 4003 sat in its case for almost a year during which I contemplated putting it up on Ebay numerous times.
Last month the Ric 4003 started calling to me. Again, I gave the 4003 a good try but it was still a struggle to play. It just didn't seem right to me since I had played 4003s in music stores over the years and loved them. I had almost given up on Rickenbacker basses then I found this forum.
I would like to thank everyone for their input and insight in making this forum a great resource for us RIC musicians. Taking hold of the information I acquired "lurking" through this forum and Mark "The MD" steps on adjusting the truss rods and action, I went to work on my 4003. It took me about an hour making small adjustments to the truss rods and bridge to get the neck straight and the action low. Previously, the bridge had to be bottom out to make the bass semi-playable. Now my new 4003 plays as smooth as butter and beats the Carvin hands down. I love it!! This is the playability of Rickenbacker basses I remembered. The tone is incredible and cuts through nicely. Plus, it just looks great too.
I wanted to post this to say thank you. This is a great forum and I am now addicted
