Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Greetings All,

One of my favorite guitars is the Ric 12 string. I own a "Harrison" but have always been driven crazy by the tiny neck. I recently heard that the Tom Petty 12 is wider and easier to play; any comments?

BTW..thanks to all who have created this place.

Bass-ically Yours,
Rich Briere
http://www.richbriere.com

I have owned both. The Petty is much wider. But, a very different sound. That may not matter to you.

Jon

Thanks Jon,

If the sound is MUCH different, could you fill me in as to what that difference might be? I'd appreciate it. Also, are they still available?Thanks, :^>)

Bass-ically Yours,
RB

The best way to describe the difference is, the hollowbody 360 seems to resinate or ring more. The 660 seemed to fall flat. That doesn't mean it didn't sound good, it sounded great! The 360 definately has a small neck. I have small hands so I can play it fine. The Petty neck was very wide and played more like an acoustic. I think it is purely preference. You can find Petty's on ebay and other sources. It would be nice if you could own both and compare. BTW, The Petty does not have the stereo out which appears to me to be worthless. One more thing, the petty because of the small body and large neck seemed neck heavy. Just my personal opinion. I checked out your site, is that young guy you? Wow! Just kidding.

Jon

Jon and Rich: At the risk of chiming in here mid-converstation, it is my experience that solid body Rickenbackers have a greater sustain because of the through neck design. For the sake of argument it is my experience that plugged in and properly set up, it is difficult to tell the difference between the sound of toasters on the semi-acoustic versus the solid body.

Thanks Gents,

I just went to Ric and went through the specs, the wood, etc. Based on those specs and your opinions I now have a fair idea as to the sonic differences. I REALLY appreciate the help guys. Looks like I'll have to find one of those "Petty's" to add to the arsenal. Any thoughts as to the going rate on one?

Bass-ically Yours,
RB

PS: Peter, I take it you're our "host"? Thanks for what you've done here. Very nice site. :^>)

Thanks Rich. The success of this venture comes from the contributors.

Peter,
Thanks for your input. This is like trying to decide if you like Chocolate or strawberry ice cream better. Both very yummy, but different. I wasn't refering to sustain, but more the actual tones that cut through. The classic RIC chime seemed to be not as present on the solid body. This is only my own personal opinion. It is possible that years of Marshall stacks and Fender combo's pointing at my head has changed what I hear. Great forum. I read it daily.

Jon