Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Hey!
Does anyone have a 325c58 with a vibrola with tuning issues? Because I am Planing on getting a 325 and I don't know witch one. I REALLY like the c64, but I like the c58 with the Gold and Vibrola. So if any one has any thing to say let me know!!!!!!!!!!


thanks.

Hi Kieran,

You can search the site for 325c58 and find a number of threads that discuss the virtues and sins of the c58, with and without the Vibrola. Generally, I think you'll find the consensus is that the stock Vibrola will cause the guitar to go out of tune if it's used, and even unused, the tuning stability is less than most would prefer. Another risk with the Vibrola is it's fairly easy to mar the top of the guitar if you accidentally pull back on the vibrato arm as opposed to moving from side to side.

But there are options for you. Several have had their Vibrola pinned, a modification that allows the guitar to appear as normal, but the Vibrola doesn't move. Another option is to simply replace the Vibrola with trapeze tailpiece, which doesn't require any modification to the guitar, and the Vibrola can be easily retro-fitted. Finally, you can do what many, including myself, have done, and that is to put a Bigsby tailpiece/vibrato on the guitar, like Lennon's.

Both the c58 and c64 are wonderful guitars, but are fairly different to own in my opinion. Ric advertises the C58 as an authentic replica of the Ric that was available when Lennon bought his first 325, "warts and all", meaning the pickups, wiring, hardware, etc., are as close to circa 1958 technology as they could make it. The c58 is a joy to play, it's light as a feather, has the old style open back tuners, etc; the c64 is also a joy, but has a more solid feel to it, and is a "hotter" guitar in terms of pickups and sound, more modern "vintage" (an oxymoron I realize) tuners, etc..

Happy hunting!

Another thing to think about: Although the Vibrola arm can be removed, it cannot be swung out of the way. The Accent vibrato on the c64 has this feature. I don't think Kauffmans are that bad, actually...they're pretty cool looking. Don't expect to use it much though (or at all).

This may sound strange but the Kauffman is a brutal vibrato, but it is part of the guitars charm. I bought the guitar for historical purposes so you have to live with it. I prefer the Ac'cent. It doesn't go out of tune as easily. Having said all of that, I'm mostly a bass player anyway.

If you're gonna play it, think about having it pinned. If you use the vibrola at all, it might scratch the finish. I replaced mine with a Bigsby with no regrets. I have both a c58 and a c64. The necks are completely different. Love 'em both.