Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

What's new compared to the old 4003S/5?

I've known about the new pickup for several months now, but was just wondering when the new bass would appear. I like that the headstock doesn't have that awkward look that the S5 used to have with the short pull on the B string. Since the old pickups were limited to about a 2 5/16" B to G string spacing, and the HB1's are limited to 62mm, I'm guessing the spacing on the new pickups is much wider than either, which would be much easier to play.

WHAT? Where are we seeing this? Avid journalist needs to know!

Check out Facebook, Paul

Here's a sneak preview from Instagram.

Sounds like there might be a new bridge design...

So on Facebook there's one photo? Where's the info?

Here's Joey's post (typo corrected).

Will be at the NAMM Show. Yes the S/5 is back, but there is something different about it that I've known about for several months. Maybe I can share it soon.

And further down he says: This would be something RIC never installed on an instrument before.

Based on that and the comment above after my first post, it looks like they've got new & improved pickups and possibly greater string spacing. That, and maybe continuously variable transmission.

So, perhaps there will be a 5 string Rick bass that can compete feature for feature and specs-wise with my old Zons and current Martin Keith basses. Cool. I hope I ever get the chance to try one out. Will these be 4003 or 4004 based?

Dane, you seem to know all about pickups specs, tell us more. HB-1, hi-gain or toaster based? Or something new?


As much as love my Martin Keith basses (they're not going anywhere) I would love to have a 5 string Rick bass that feels like what I am used string spacing-wise.

Awwwwwwwww hell, nothing good can come of this around this house. I better clean out the garage and get the futon ready.

byu wrote:Here's Joey's post (typo corrected).

Will be at the NAMM Show. Yes the S/5 is back, but there is something different about it that I've known about for several months. Maybe I can share it soon.

And further down he says: This would be something RIC never installed on an instrument before.

Based on that and the comment above after my first post, it looks like they've got new & improved pickups and possibly greater string spacing. That, and maybe continuously variable transmission.

Would be nice If there is a new pickup with which I could retrofit my 4004cII/5.

byu wrote:Here's Joey's post (typo corrected).
....That, and maybe continuously variable transmission.

So... I'm getting that, after you finish the gig, you can drive home in this bass?!? What will RIC think of next?!!!

Seriously? This is the only picture?

cheyenne wrote:Seriously? This is the only picture?

We’re definitely going to need pics of this years NAMM!