Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hi

I'm trying to work out how to distinguish between 450s with set necks as opposed to through necks. On mapleglos its fairly straight forward but for jetglos and other darker finished 450s, is there any noticeable difference in the way the neck heel joins the body that give visual cues to what sort of neck join has been used? Could anyone point me in the direction of some helpful images? I'm looking for a 450 and have only just realised that both neck join construction methods were used.

Then again, I suppose my next question is; does it make any difference? I have it in my head that I'd prefer a neck through 450 simply because it's more traditionally Ric and it is said to provide better sustain.

Any thoughts?

Ade

It should be easy to tell on any color.

The set neck heel isn't flush with the back of the body.

The neck through heel is flush - it's one piece of wood.

These photos aren't the best angle but will give you an idea:
http://web.mac.com/john_minutaglio/iWeb/Site/ES-17.html

As far as which to get - they play and sound the same in my experience. I like the neck through better.

Also be aware that a set neck may be a 'converted' electro or ryder...

John

Thank you. This is the info I've been chasing. I saw some pics of set neck electros and noticed that the heel wasn't flush but wasn't sure if that was typical of Rics with set necks as well or just electros. Anyway, thanks again; I won't have any trouble telling the difference now. Come to think of it though - I don't think I've seen many Ric 450s that are set neck. They've all had the heel flush with the body and must be through necks. Maybe the set necks just aren't that common? Anyone know why the made them in both configurations?

You see them from time to time, mainly from 1964-65 on....420s, 450s, 460s, maybe even a 450/12 here and there. I would think a 450/12-string with a set-neck wouldn't hold up too well over the years....the string tension would be mean.

And I thought they were all the same.

I have a 1966 450/12 ("FF" prefix) with a set neck - and it's holding up pretty well!

If you want pics of the heel, for reference, then I would be glad to provide some