Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

This was discussed a bit in the Blueburst thread, but I've always wondered if RIC would be open to producing a Rick Resource limited edition bass. It's been done by other companies for internet discussion groups - Fender and Lakland are two that come to mind. If RIC is willing, we would need to know the minimum order number. From there we'd need to find a dealer to handle the orders, (Mike Parks or Chris from Pick of the Ricks?). Finally we'd need to agree on a model. Keep in mind that RIC probably wouldn't be willing to put in a lot of work retooling for a new model, so I don't think a 4002 or 4005 would fly. My own preference would be a 4001 "V68" with features like checkerboad binding, full width fingerboard inlays, toaster and horsehoe pickups, walnut headstock wings and plexi thumbrest. A unique finish could be used on this edition, or perhaps the standard RIC colours would apply.
Also keep in mind that if this were ever to get off the ground we would need people willing to put down a deposit for a bass they might not see for a while (given the current production schedules at RIC), but I think it would be well worth the wait.

I'm down with that. One question would be who is eligible to buy it? The public?or just us? If it's only forum folks, then what is the requirement for that? So many would join just for the opportunity to purchase such an axe.Also, can I buy 2?

It's a great idea that would be very cool to make a presentation thru Mike or Chris to John Hall.We could probably make it direct to John suggesting distribution thru those guys as well.

Count me in - I like the V68

Count me in too...I'd be all over that....

I'm in!

I asked John Hall 6 yrs ago, if he would make me one (4001v68). He said he was sorry, but they couldn't.
If as a group one could be had, count me in!

Steve, that bass sounds just like the instrument I would like to own, although I doubt Mr. Hall will entertain the idea, given production constraints. But definitely put me down for one, make mine Montezuma Brown or Fireglo!!!!

Im in. I kinda like the older burgandy-glow AKA "eggplant" color.

If it were to happen (which I doubt) it would be one set model with one color, meaning no special order options regarding trim or hardware. I personally think it should be a one off color that the forum members have lusted over so long: apple corp green.

So Barney Purpleglow is out?

As mentioned before, you can,t truly replicate the 60,s models unless you have a dot inlay model... The MOP isn,t available and the other stuff out there just doesn,t cut it...which is why JH has not gone there, and the re-issues have been of the "S" models. The MOP is the defining feature for most on the 60,s / early 70,s basses. It really gives the instrument a presence, and if you can,t get it right, forget about a re-issue from this period....If you want a deluxe 60,s bass, your going to have to buy a 60,s deluxe bass...A Purpleburst 21 fret (ebony board) with bound headstock would be cool...Now, if we can just convince the board to get a little more colourful...

The real advantage to approaching RIC about such a project is that there is purchasing power in numbers. RIC isn't about to do one off's, but if we come to them with a request for a significant number of basses in a configuration of our choosing, the economics might start making sense.

Wints, I disagree... While I would love to see a reissue with MOP, many sixties models came with an edge to edge inlay that was not MOP, but a chalky white stuff. While I'd definitely prefer MOP, I be willing to "settle" for wide inlays akin to what is available on the 660/12 currently. I have one of these guitars, and I can tell you it looks quite cool, very elegant.
I'd be willing to pay for a bass that had the early features, combined with inlays like on the 660 series...
But Mr. Hall is selling guitars and basses like hotcakes these days, so I doubt we will see it anytime soon...

Does anyone of us have any type of relationship with John? Simply stated, we can ask, what would it take? How many preorders would be needed?we're almost in total agreement of what it should be.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

actually what I want is your basic 4003s5 and 4003s8 and 4004CII5 models