Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I like the v68 idea, but do have to agree with Philip on several points. I don't like having to put down a deposit with no definite date for receipt of goods. I would also not be too thrilled about having to go through one dealer. Cost would be a big issue. Given what the c64s are going for, it could be advantageous to look for a used bass instead. I doubt we could get everyone on board with a single color either.

We would also probably have to accept a few modifications from a real '68. No thumbrest, modern bridge, modern truss rods, modern machine heads, and modern finish. While they are including walnut wings on the c64s, JH has said that due to the material available, the wings aren't stable, which is why they have been axed from the 4004 line, so those might have to go too.

Ah, yes, Jeff, you hit a good point. Over time, RIC has learned a few things and can build a better bass than they once did. This is true of many other companies as well. THINGS CHANGE FOR A REASON, and there might be good solid reasons for not doing things the old way any more. Sometimes it's better to stop and reconsider what's really important.....THE SOUND. After getting my ReBop, I called the company and spoke to the rep on the other end. He PERSONALLY considered the ReBop to be the BEST sounding Spector bass being made today (and he has the opportunity to play them all), even if it sells for less than 1/4 the cost of some of their custom American basses. Alder can sound better (and weighs less) than maple in a bass body, bolt-on can sound better than neck-thru design if punchy tone is your thing and it's done right, an aluminum bridge can sound better than a solid brass bridge (and weigh less) if punch is needed, and the less expensive Aguilar preamp sounds different rather than worse compared to the proprietary Spector preamps. A brass nut only sounds better, if at all, on an open string. So when I decided against flashy looking flamed maple bodies, I saved a ton of money, took a load off my back, and gained a better sounding (to some) bass. The sound part is subjective, but the other points are undeniable. The design of the ReBop is not unlike an old Fender Jazz bass with alder body, except for the graphite neck reinforcement, aluminum bridge, active preamp, and humbuckers instead of single-coil pups. It's simply an upgrade of something that was good to begin with. Others would consider it a downgrade from the American series. I don't care one diddly bit; it just sounds right. The vintage freaks can go spend a bundle on an old Jazz bass, but I'll take the ReBop with improvements (and better ergonomics) for a lot less cost. I put on Schaller straplocks, and that's all the improvement it will ever need for me.

RIC could introduce alder bodies, aluminum bridges, active preamps, reinforced necks, deep-inset bolt-on design, double-curved bodies, and the like. However, I somehow figure that the RIC traditionalists would unnecessarily freak out, so companies like Spector have to come to the rescue for the rest of us. RIC should be encouraged to PUSH THE LIMITS, instead of revisiting the past.

Philip,
Since you seem to wax poetic on the advantages of these other basses that you enjoy so much, why don't you make one of us happy and sell the one that you have? I, for one, don't want a bass made in the Czech Republic, but if you do, more power to ya! I mean, if it is such an antiquated design, surely you don't have much use for it? (wink!)

A V68, like the V63 and C64, wouldn't be an exact reproduction of a '68 4001. What it would be is a modern bass with many of the features that we, as Rickenbacker enthusiasts, love. If those features were all available on a normal production bass, great - I'll buy one. But considering the rarity of 4001's from the 60's, and the fact that they're bloody expensive, the V68 would be an attractive alternative for many folks.

I think he's got ya there, Philip!!! ;~) But I think you make some very good points about some of the newer models... In the past I have been such a traditionalist about the 4001/3 that I wasn't even really willing to consider the 4004, and with guitars I did the same. But after playing several Cheyennes and Laredos I think I've grown to appreciate their superior bridges, QUIET humbickers, and simple but elegant design.
They play great and I really want to own one. I hope they get the backlog cleared soon so I can order one.
And by the way, what model Shector we are talking about here?

How about one of these:
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Calm down guys, we're adults here. Just to throw in my 2 cents worth I really like the '73 model just before the transition. Non-horseshoe model, full width inlays, toaster pu, checker binding, slotted bridge. Do it up authentically with the original drawings with the slimmer, narrower neck and sleeker body, I would really like to see the modern truss rod system though. I really like the early burgandy-glo, (eggplant color). And.......just to set it off as a special edition, how about gold hardware? Its not my favorite, but would look sweet and definatley set itself apart from all others.

Sorry about the sarcasm, Philip....I'm just frustrated with the availability of the coveted V63, 4004 and "S" models on the secondary market. I've been looking high and low for a nice V63/MG and seems everytime I catch wind of one, it's the same old story....."long gone"....so the thought of a "V68" modeled after our precious pre-73 4001's , but with modern "guts" , certainly appeals to me!! So what if I have to wait 1-2 years for a V68?? It may take that long to find the V63 I'm looking for!!

Who am I kidding , anyway....? This V68 thing will probably never happen, but it IS interesting discussion!!

I see no reason it can't happen. Just not immediately.A V68 would have most of the features I would want. Color is not a big issue with me as I love most of the standard colors.

Look what I'm doing, searching for a pre-73 model as a project because I love the checkerboard binding. I might even by an old lapsteel to get the horseshoe, it's going to cause all kinds of mod problems. I definately love the old grover tuners.

If it cost what a c64s does, it might be a bargain for me.

Hey, I want to know about those pics John Williams posted. You were at NAMM this year, right John? Are those pictures from this year's NAMM?

Yea, really, give it up John..........

Ok, ok. Those pics came from the Tokyo Music Fair this past fall. RIC is making 24 of these models for Shinseido (Japanese Distributor). I just thought that these would be a great version to have. RIC could make them no problem. It would be up to you guys to agree on it. Oh, and it up to RIC to agree to do it also!

http://www.rickenbacker-jp.com/jp/up_mf2003.html

The pictures John posted were from a thread in the Guitar forum. They were from a batch of instruments bound for Japan that were a bit different from the standard production models. Just add the horsehoe, walnut wings and wide inlay and we have a V68!

Interesting that in those pics are v66 and v67 360 models with full width inlays.

Not to mention that black hardware seems to be available over there,