Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I am nearly ready to place my order for one of these guitars. I have not be able to actually play this model and am looking for input from other forum members that are familiar with this model. I don't want to order one then wait up to 18 months to finally get it only to find out it's not right for me.

In particular how does the actual guitar feel when either you are playing standing or sitting?

I currently have a 1997 model and like the shape and feel while I playing it, but the 381's are thicker and this is what concerns me.
I am familiar with the neck and string spacing and this is fine for me.
Also, any other input you can add that I might have overlooked please feel free to comment on.

The 381, I find actually a little more comfortable than the 330...a cross between a 330 & 360 in the comfort zone. The extra thickness is not a problem, seated or standing. It sounds total Rickenbacker & is normaly a beautiful piece of wood....can't go wrong really.

You wont be disapointed Charles.

I have a 381 6-string (2003), and just this past January purchased a new 360-12. Two different guitars, and both a pleasure to play, but for my money (as the wife is more than happy to point out, was a lot), the 381 is just a fantastic guitar to play.

Have to agree with Anthony, the extra thickness is NOT a problem, as least to me. It just feels right in my hands, and I've not been blessed with large fingers...but my wife says size doesn't matter.

As for a 12-string version of the 381, I would love to have one!

Funny, that Mick...'cause I've only got a 12 & would LOVE a 6!

I also have a '90 360V64-12 & they are both great gtrs. Similar to play really, nice slim necks on both & I honestly have no preference sound wise, despite the nice hot toasters on the 360 & the 7.4's on the 381. My 360V64 was my ultimate 12 string, with the combination of slim neck & great sound, but since the arrival of my 381, I am surprised to say that it equals it in every respect save the colour. My 360 is the beautiful, lush, deep '90's FG & my 381 is MG...rather lovely, but MG!

The 381 is quite possibly the most wonderful guitar
ever built. The thickness is an advantage not only in feel
but in tone as well.
The German carve on both sides lends to the idiosyncratic air and truly makes for a unique playing experience...

Is that enough superfluous hyperbole?

John, you've truly satiated my unremitting ravenousness for an accurate retelling of the 381's playability, as well as its idiosyncratic air. ME WANT 381!!!

It always looked the most grown-up of all the Rics. My 1997SPC/VB is a sports car; the 381 is Dad's Mercedes and Harris tweed. Eh?

I'm also convinced that lightning from above will strike anyone playing rubbish music on a 381!

It is a serious, beautiful tool, a perfect marriage of form and function. It's the Rickenbacker that even Ric naysayers must acknowledge. My dealer is always hinting that I should buy one (clearly the model he likes best).

I wheeled out my 381 earlier this week having finally bought myself a Twin Reverb. I'm always stunned by how the neck pick-up sounds. To me, it sounds like wood. Terrible description, but it's the best I can do. There's just a lovely, mellow earthiness to it that I can't get enough of. I would really like to try a 381/12. I'm sure the sound would be very, very lush, more so than with the "ordinary" 330/360 twelve strings.

Skeeterbuck, the sitting position is ultra-comfortable. The extra width and heft of the guitar makes it sit very solidly on your leg. As for standing, I sometimes find mine a bit heavy, but things like overall weight often vary from guitar to guitar.

I really recommend buying one if you have the means. (I wish I could justify buying a twelve to complement my six string.) You won't regret it.

Check out the Monty Brown 381/12 at PM Blues...
A little spendy; I guess it's 'cause the colour is now longer available...
I think Willies has a nice Fireglo too...

Yes I can wax eloquent on the 381...

Yea John, I emialed PM Blues when I saw that one listed...even for MB that kinda steep. The one at Willie's is more my style being FG and the price is right. However I really like the new amber fireglo! Classic Axe in Virginia has a "To Kill For" flamey maple one in what else... Mapleglo!!!

P.S. Thanks to everyone for their input to my original posting.

They are gorgeous and great to play but the carve has always been uncomfortable for me while standing up.

I have a 360V64 and a 381V69. Both 6 string, both fireglo, both 1999 models.

While they both feel different (the V64 being understandably much lighter) they both sound totally Rickenbacker and are superb instruments. The weight is not an issue though - it's certainly no Les Paul black beauty. Sound and playability is a given and I don't really need to tell you about that.

What is the overriding issue is the coolness factor. Not many people have 381s and they are without doubt one of the most beautiful pieces of wood to have ever graced the earth. Buy it. But it now.

Hi Red Rob,
I take it that you a FG fan. The 381's have a certain elegance that some of the others don't. I can only think of one word to describe your guitar.....BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Gawd!! I've only ever seen one over here - on the bay last year. Incredible Mapleglo but that Fireglo is magnificent, Rob! Monty Brown is a great finish for a 381 also, IMHO.

Fireglo 381's are definitely spectacular. The german carve and the burst are just meant to go together. If I ever manage to sneak a 381/12 past my wife, it will definitely be FG. Very nice guitar, Rob.