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Whats the deal with the "S" models? I have never seen them in Norway before. Are they more expensive and rare than standard 4001/4003?

s=set neck maybe?

They're a "Standard" mono, binding-less, dot marker version of the regular models. I always assumed they were a bit less money due to the easier production since the inlays are simple dots & no body binding is used. They may be more scarce now, so maybe that's why they sell for more money now.
The same hardware is used, so they sound pretty much the same if the pups are used (Toaster, High Gain, HB).

S is for Standard. Binding and triangular inlays are Deluxe features.

Kevin: not exactly the same hardware... S models didn't have the Ric-O-Sound.

S means "special".

S=Special
The 4001S was developed for the UK market in the 60s, the importer, Rose/Morris, wanted a "more traditional", toned-down look to their instruments.
Some 4003Ss had ROS I believe.

As Mr. Rogers once said: "Boys are special on the outside; Girls are special on the inside..."

So a Rose Morris is a '60's UK import 's' model? I've often wondered what RM was all about. I also wondered roughly how many 's' models were produced in proportion to the deluxe models.
I've always been drawn more to the bound bodies & triangle inlays. More of a classy look IMO.

Girls are also special on the outside

I've never seen an 'S' here but they look as if they're more comfortable to play, without the body binding.
I think they're beautiful in mapleglo

Girls are always special.
Try to marry one, you'll find out..




soon enough

FG really shines on 's' models & rear bound models (360/370,etc.)

the S model was a cheaper model without triangle inlays, binding or ric-o-sound ... but now that Ric quit making the 4003s they are considered collectable and people pay extra for them ...

Quote:

"S=Special
The 4001S was developed for the UK market in the 60s, the importer, Rose/Morris, wanted a "more traditional", toned-down look to their instruments.
Some 4003Ss had ROS I believe."

Not to nitpick, but weren't the late 50's 4000 basses almost all S models?

When did the relationship with Rose Morris begin?

No, a 4000 is a 4000 is a 4000. IOW a 4000 was a model unto itself.