Just purchased this - Rickenbacker 320 1989

[beefandbones]

Could the difference in sound be attributed to the different pickups? Newer 325s have toasters while your new '81 320 has hi-gains. And I'm sure putting on new strings will help too.

[billydlight]

You can replace the hiGains with reissue toasters without making any changes to the guitar structurally, ie no routing or extra holes. I think they will have the sound you are looking for

[doctorwho]

A belated congrats, Karl!

I don't recall either of my 320s from that era having a muffled tone, but some time over the holiday I'll get them out for a check-out (I'll compare them to my 1984 325v59 with toasters) and then let you know.

[sjb-66]

Well I have to say,
after playing the guitar for 21/2 weeks with the high gain pick-ups, I would not change a thing. This guitar is awesome sounding, nail's that early Beatles tone and not to mention it is spot on for Creedence Clearwater also. I'm ready for some live CCR. Have not used the guitar with my buddies yet, but I think I am ready now. Really loving it, the look the feel and especially the sound.
Thanks Everyone for your comments.
One thing no one responded to was my question about Rickenbacker strings. How do you all feel about them?
Thanks again,
Karl

[doctorwho]

... One thing no one responded to was my question about Rickenbacker strings. How do you all feel about them? ...

I like them, and they are what I usually use on my short-scale Rickenbackers.

[rickenbrother]

Now thats a jolly saint Rick.

+1
Congrats and enjoy it, Karl!

[sjb-66]

Well,
Just lost my Job today,..looks like I wont be able to keep it. This really sucks, but thinggs don't look good.

Karl

[blaine63]

That really, really sucks.

I hope it works out for you.

[sjb-66]

Thanks everyone,
I am trying my best to not to have to sell it. Hopefully something will come up.
Karl

[blaine63]

Sadly, your dilemma is all too common right now. I truly hope it works out for you. And not simply for the sake of the Rick 320! But for you and your family.

[Reynman]

Best of luck to you and your family...the guitar is just wood and can be replaced later.

[Trav]

Karl, I enjoyed seeing your new guitar and genuine excitement, really sorry to hear your bad news I hope things work out for the best.

[sjb-66]

Thank You all, I really appreciate all your comments. I know you all are not really familiar with me, but I have been reading the forum for quite a few years. With that said, I may have a job. Taken the drug test, just waiting on the background check. And to top it off, the new job will pay more and I will be working for a great company. And, I will be able to keep the 320 - and last night I actually got to play out with it and it was a big hit. I got a lot of remarks and compliments on it. I really have liked this guitar, more than the one I previously owned.
Thanks Again everyone for all of the comments and especially for making me feel like a long tome member here by your kindness.
Karl

[jdawe]

Terrific news, Karl. Congratulations!

[analogpackrat]

Glad to hear it, Karl. Good luck with the job.