Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Is there any info in print or online that shows proper setup specs for this guitar ? Should it have heavy gauge strings 12-52 ?

Hey Rick,

I think you'll find most folks prefer heavier gauge strings on the Ric short scales--12s or 13s, depending on string make and personal preference. I've read of one or two folks who prefer lighter gauge strings, but most feel the guitar will be difficult if not impossible to intonate with light gauge strings.

Ric puts 12 rounds on these guitars. I like Thomastik-Infeld Jazz/Swing Flats, which are avail in 12 or 13s--I like the 12s, though I haven't tried their 13s. Pyramids also come in 12 and 13 gauges, but they're heavier strings, putting a heavier pull on the neck than the T-Is. I prefer the lighter feel of the T-Is, others like the heavier feel of the Pyramids.

Bill

12s or 13s are the way to go. I use D'Addario Chrome 12s (flatwound) on mine.

I always forget about D'Addario Kris--gotta try them at some point!

Bill

wj350 wrote:I always forget about D'Addario Kris--gotta try them at some point!

Bill

They're worth it. I have them on 4 or 5 guitars now and I really like the feel and sound.

Flats on a guitar ? Are you guys playing jazz on a RIC ? I've used TIs on my basses and found them very flexy and soft , is that the way to use a heavy gauge and not have it feel so tight ?

Flatwounds are sold as 'jazz' strings sometimes but were used on 325s in the 60s and are sought after for that vintage Beatles sound. I use .13 D'Addario Chromes.

VRICKY63 wrote:Flats on a guitar ? Are you guys playing jazz on a RIC ? I've used TIs on my basses and found them very flexy and soft , is that the way to use a heavy gauge and not have it feel so tight ?

...not to mention surf guitar. On my Fender Jags and Jazzmasters, they get just the right combination of juice and bite. Rounds are too harsh...

I put flats on my humbucker equipped 650. I like 'em!

OK . Im convinced . Ordered them form Elderly . My wife is the 325 player and a violinist so I think she will like the flatwound feel .

I use RIC set SKU# 95106 12-16-24W-32-42-54 on my 325JL. They seem to fit the bill nicely....

Good luck,

Gary

Wow ! Those TIs are great ! Thanks for all the info lads