Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I realize the 480 was based on the 4000 series basses, but I was wondering how they compared in terms of body size and headstock size? If anyone knows, I'd appreciate it. Thanks.

Melibee has one of each.

No, I just have this 481, restored and refinned by Paul W (shown here posing before a gig with my 330/12):



Although it has roughly the same body and headstock shape as the 4000 series basses, the body is quite a bit thinner from front to back, and lighter, and I think a little smaller than a bass body.... and the headstock is much smaller than a bass headstock, but is proportioned to look just right on the guitar.

Brian, I'll try to get a few pictures taken in the next couple of days showing a 480 next to a 4000 series bass.

Thanks Gary, I'd appreciate it. BTW Melissa, that is one of the most beautiful guitars I've ever laid eyes on. Paul is incredibly talented.

I put my 1976 480 on top of my 1986 4003 and lined them up. The 4003 is slightly wider in spots mostly due to the bound body on the 4003. The only contoured bass I have is a 4001CS. When I put the 480 on the CS, the bodies were nearly identical. Only the upper horn was slightly off. The headstock is definitely smaller on the 480 than either bass. The photos were taken directly above so you can see the differences.

Cool 480.

Interesting! Thanks Bob!