Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Let's start a new feature: Model of the Week – but just the basses this time. By my count, there are at least 38 distinct Rickenbacker Bass models over the years (see separate topic). I'm not counting fretless, VP-vintage pickup, lefties, or reverse trim options as separate models. I suppose by the factory accounting, fretless basses are separate models (4001FL, 4003FL), but there are some fretless Ricks out there that were not listed, such as the one shown below. I also have shots of Bill Henschel's 4001S fretless, and then there's Ginger Lee's ultrarare (possibly unique) 4002FL.

Anyway, let's post pictures and make comments on the grandaddy of them all – the 4000. Research suggests the first Rickenbacker bass was offered in sales brochures in 1957, but John Hall says the first was born before that, probably in 1955. At that point, few were alike as they were truly hand made and equipped with available parts. It seems that most of the early 4000 models extant are 1959 models. Around 1962, the upper horn was enlarged, but the pickguard was the original shape:
And here's Gary Clauson's unusual '77 4000FL in Burgundy; the only fretless 4000 I've come across:

My Feb 1969 before it was 4001S'ed.

My apologies to the proud owner of that beautiful '62 4000; I've mislaid the owner's name for now, but I think he was going to bring this to this weekend's MARF, so if someone can report his name, I will be sure to credit him for the shot!

Cool idea, I like it! During the week, we could try to get as many pictures of the particular model too, like all the different colors.

You mention that the 4000 was, perhaps the first bass model, unless it was some prototype in 1955. What about those old electric upright basses from the 1930's? I seem to remember seeing something about those somewhere. True, it's not a bass in the modern sense, meaning a bass guitar, but I'd think it would still count as a bass.

bassduke49 wrote:Let's start a new feature: Model of the Week

Not exactly a new idea but a resurgence will be nice! Looking forward to watching and participating.

Photos taken in '69. '68 4000JG. Note these are the factory strings, black strings with gold thread wraping. It is hard to tell but it sports a HS pickup.

Very cool, Ken!

There was for a few semesters in Antigonish a tromboneist i think..horn prof anyways who had an early 70s fretless 4000..Rob Smith I think was his name..not sure where he and that bass went its about 12 years ago or more..was a beauty and in mint condition.
Would love to have it as my backup giggle.

My first Rickenbacker:

My goodness, some beautiful basses! Love that fretless 4000. I used to look down on the single-pickup 4000, but I've since become enamored of them.

I can hardly wait for the 4008 to become bass of the week! It'll probably be a short week...

There are very few basses that are as fundamentally cool as a Rickenbacker!!

My former '74 BG 4000. I regret selling her now.

Wow, nice Sam. I can see why you'd miss it.

Oh the smooth curves ! The satin like slippery finish ! The blood flows for burgundy glo ! The lust is too much !

I wish I had a 4000 to show off here.