Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I'm asking this question for a friend that has expressed interest in buying a Lennon-syle Rick.

I know that the 325 is a 3/4 sized guitar and that the 350 is a full scale. Other than the few minor cosmetic hardware features of the "correct" 325, is there any difference in the tone between the two guitars? He is a little bit of big guy and I think that a short scale guitar like the 325 would look like a toy hanging off of him. He also owns a Red/BT 330 and I felt that the full scale neck of the 350 would be less of a transition for him as well as a comfort factor plus, he could retain the look of the Lennon guitar.

Any input regarding one or the other? Any "big men" out there who own a 325 and can comment? He's looking to pick something up with in the next few weeks.

Thanks!

Lennon look and sound would be better served by the shorty.

In terms of tone, there is a good deal of difference. Sustain will be better on the 350, and here's more room to move around on that neck. The shorty will suffer in this department (listen to any early Beatles rhythm track and hear the plink-plink-chunka-chunka).

Remember also that there's no real guitar with a shorter scale than a Rick short scale, at 20.75", not even a mini-Strat!

Although I love shorties and own multiples, I'd have to recommend the 350 if it's his first Rick.

Thanks, Paul. He's not into playing leads -- strictly a rhythm player... he doesn't want to make it cry or sing (ooohh, I'm soooo sorry!) -- so just maybe he'd dig the 325. I mentioned in the original post that he does own a 330 and the scale length of the 350 would be an easier transition for him. He's wanting the Lennon guitar for a project that we've spent the better part of the year putting together and are set to debut this thing in December. I've also been trying to persuade him into picking up a Casino... still got a little more work there... I'm such a bad influence!

It all comes down to which is more important, look or sound?

For me, tone always trumps the look. But for this project, it's important to have the look and if he can get close to the sound with the V63, then that's a bonus. However, if the tone of the V63 can't deliver what we're after -- it's a Beatles cover group in the vein of the Fab Faux -- then most likely the C64 is the only option. Having only limited experience with Rick guitars , which was with my former 360/12C63 and a 360/12V64 , I'm unsure if the 350 will give us what we're looking for.

Anyone else? All input is much appreciated.

When I saw Pat DiNizio playing a 350 at the RIC 75th, I thought it was a 325. I'm not being mean, I dig that dude hxc, I'm simply relaying what I think may be a situation similar to your friend's, if he's a big fella.

I ride the fence on the look/tone issue. Of course, I'm very picky about "just the right guitar" for the job, but I also believe you should be able to play your songs well on a $5 garage sale acoustic guitar if you're worth your weight in salt. I think I screwed up that expression. Now, for something hilarious:

Looking for input RE: 325C64 vs. 350V63

For both models, it can be found along the right side of the body, near the bottom. It should have a serial number on it.

Gotcha, Jason. That was my feeling as well. BTW - I know where the input jack is ! LOL

350V63 through an AC30 gets "the tone" perfectly well if your rythm player plays well. A small playing adjustment to shorten the longer sustain the 350 has compared to playing a 325. The longer scale provides more room for accurate finger placement during Beatles chord progressions by larger players. I wentwith the 350 myself as I have large hands and fingers.

Nothing compares to the tone and feel of a real 325, IMO. It just has a very unique "honking" rhythm sound. Maybe putting .13s on a 350 could bring you closer. I must say the 325's short scale is a bit off-putting when you first pick one up, but it wasn't hard for me to get used to - not as hard as a mandolin, anyway!

peewee wrote:Gotcha, Jason. That was my feeling as well. BTW - I know where the input jack is ! LOL

It's on your amplifier. The output jack is on the guitar.

You guys.......

Thanks for your thoughts (is that better???) Dean and Dan. Much appreciated!

I think he really needs to try them both before he will know which will be better. Playing the 325 is a very singular experience and he just might not get along with it. If you have to commit to one without trying both, I'd recommend he go with the 350 to be safe. The difference in tone won't be so big that he can't compensate in the way he will play it, I believe, and he will have a familiar, comfortable experience of it.

Yes, short scale is a whole 'nother animal.

Thanks, everyone!

What I've done is given him everyone's takes and have also referred him to the comparison charts at RIC. This way he can get an idea of what differs from model to model and decide on which he'd be most comfortable with. BTW -- are the gold TRCs available any place? I know that he could contact Pickguardian for the gold guards if he wishes to go in that direction but unsure @ the TRC.

Personally, short scales (and three pickup Rics) don't move me. But if I had to choose between the two, the 350 is what I'd choose. Either one would be good for rhythm, but it would behoove those with big hands to get the 350.