Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I am in the process of updating my guitar holdings to better serve my playing needs. I've mentioned this in other threads but I currently have a couple of things on the go-one fellow I have played with for more than 15 years and we do Irish traditional music, mostly, with a lot of other folk stuff thrown in (e.g. Leonard Cohen covers using bouzouki and concertina, Grateful Dead with guitars and Irish pipes, Simon and Garfunkel with recorders and mandolins). A mix of instrumentation but the mainstay is Celtic folk stuff. I also play with another band that has a mix of acoustics (6 and 12), bouzouki, mandolin, dulcimer, banjo, and electric (lot of guitar synth stuff). This band is all over the map-we do originals and covers that range from Solsbury Hill (using a 12 string, a bodhran, and a banjo), Johnny Cash, Cold Play, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Dylan, and even a Sesame Street song. And, I also do some solo gigs that are mostly a blend of classic rock, folk, and even some folk/country thrown in. Having set the stage, to my question.

I currently have two 6 string acoustics I heavily rely upon (an Ovation and a Yamaha). I also have my bouzouki and my mando and, of course, my 360/6 BBR is on its way. I had originally intended to invest in a nice 12 string acoustic to expand my possibilities. Given my musical focuses though, do you think a Rickenbacker 12 would do the job? Obviously, I recognize the quality and the workmanship of such an instrument and I know that there are many here whose knee-jerk reaction would be "Go for it." But, honestly, do you think I would be well-served moving from an acoustic to an electric 12 option, given the stuff I play? Any opinions would be most welcome. How versatile is an electric Rickenbacker 12 in this musical environment? And, if you think it is suitable, which would be the best option?

Here is a good option,I am selling this nearly new 2005 Rickenbacker 330 12-string for only $899 here is a picture:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/fuzztone65/3312l.jpg

Despite their close association with the Beatles and Byrds, I think Rickenbacker 12-strings are very versatile guitars.

In an ensemble setting (with the right amp), a Ric-12 can provide both a large, expansive rhythm underpinning, and a highly distinctive lead sound. As a solo instrument, the Ric-12 sound is so big that it can comfortably stand alone, almost as well as an acoustic guitar. A Ric-12 is also a great instrument for fingerpicking... if you can negotiate the somewhat narrow string spacing.

If you've ever seen Roger McGuinn live, you'd get a great idea of what a sonic powerhouse a Ric-12 can be as a performer's sole accompaniment. Ever see a guitarist perform solo with just a Strat or Tele? The sound would be too thin. Not so with a Ric-12.

I think a Ric-12 would be an ideal instrument for your eclectic array of tunes and styles. I'm not sure why you'd want to use it in place of your acoustic, though. Mix 'em up... use both! Of course, as I own five Ric 12-strings, I'll readily concede that my opinion may not be the most unbiased.

My 12-string of choice would be a 360 or 370 model because of their semi-acoustic sound, but many others here sing the praises of the 660-12. I've owned one and it was a terrific guitar.

I've found that the person makes the music, the instrument makes it possible. Meaning, I am sure that the new instrument will push you into areas you might not have explored before

I will definitely be picking up a 12 acoustic eventually but for now, for financial reasons, it will have to be one or the other (I intend on getting another 6 string acoustic soon as well). No worries about the neck being too small for my "stubby" fingers! Think I'll go with a 330/12 or possibly a 340/12 if I go this route-Fireglo for sure.

A question about the third pickup-does anybody find having a pickup in the middle gets in the way of their strumming/picking hand? This would largely be a matter of playing style but I would think that, for me, this pickup might be a subtle impediment. I've never had a 3 pickup Ric in my hands though.

I convert nearly all my Rics to three pick ups now Bill. I like the extra 'focus' to the sound that the third pick up gives & also the neck/mid combination sound, that you just can't get on a two pick up model.

When I first did it, I honestly thought that I'd never get used to it, but after three gigs, I was playing as if I'd used three pickup gtrs all my life. Don't let the first trials put you off...believe me, you get used to it VERY quickly. IMO, it is definately worth it.

There is a Fireglo 340/12 with Vintage Pickups listed in the "Rickenbackers For sale" section.

Here is a direct link:

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