Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

And I'm a bit disappointed. It's in great condition, but I just can't get into the sound. I think I may send it back.

8-(

Do you not like the "8-string" sound, or do you not like the sound of this bass in particular?

I don't like the 8-string sound. It strikes me as a bass that would be great for a very bright setting and quick melodic runs, but I like the 4003 growl better. I thankfully have a 48-hour return period with it, so I may sit down with it tomorrow and see what happens. Even my wife was less than impressed and she's heard most of my basses.

Believe me, this is one fine bass condition-wise, especially considering it's a 1989. It's in extremely clean condition.

Definitely sleep on it and try it again in the morning! Maybe you were expecting something in your head that was preventing from hearing it with "new ears"? I've got a Tune 8-string, and I love the sound of it acoustically, but I don't like the active pickups, so I've been on the prowl for a 4003/S8. I like the fullness of the 8-string, and have been a long-time fan of Doug Pinnick, who used 12-strings in the earlier days of King's X.

I have been trying 8 and 12 string basses for years ... they always freaked me out ... they sounded really strange ... until my last trip to motor city guitar ... I played a dean rhapsody 8 string bass ... I liked it ... either I have grown and changed as a bass player or my tastes have changed ... either way I will some how get an 8 string bass and string it BEAD with octaves ... and the experiment with it ... I am actually seriously thinking of converting a bass 4 to 8 ... I have some parts on order ...

but when you get good on the 8 string you can get 2 notes or one ... you can play with a pick or fingers ... there are lots of options ...

Oh Jeff, you were never freaked out by my Hamer 12, were you?
I think it is an acquired taste. I know the first time I saw Cheap Trick in 1979-80, I had to have that sound. It shook the ground and filled so much space!!
It's also something that doesn't fit into every style of music. However, it can do some things VERY well. Play it again tomorrow!

Hey Ron,

It's a shame that you have a 48 hour turnaround on the 8 string, I really wanted to see it! A couple of years ago, I had a Dean Rhapsody 8 string and a Schecter Elite 8 string (at the same time!), and I just really couldn't get used to playing them. So, I sold them, and my left hand thanked me for it!

BTW, I stopped by Classic Axe after work yesterday, and I saw your new trans blue Cii. Beautiful bass, my trans green one has the same feel and vibe to it. Russ said that you droopped it off last Friday with your wife (when I'm usually there). D'oh!

Ron,

It's a shame since it's such a nice-looking guitar, but I can't adapt to the sound. I played it last night and then pulled out my 4003. It was no contest for me; the 4003 is still my #1. I couldn't make the 4003s8 work.

Did Russ tell you about the rest of my visit? He's quite a subtle salesman.

No...explain!

I'll e-mail you.

I've owned three 8-strings, and two 12-strings. Still have this one.

That's too bad

I bought my s8 thinking that I'd check it out, probably not like it then turn around and sell it for a profit. But I made the mistake of playing it and was instantly hooked.....it just blew me away. I play in a metal band and the songs we cover weren't originally done on an 8 string and the s8 still fits in....and I think it could fit in with just about any sttle of music if you enjoy playing it....which you obviously don't.
If your deal was decent you might want to think about putting up for sale here to recoup your money or on Ebay for a profit.

I've had one inquiry about it and I'll try to post some photos later. I played it for several hours and just couldn't get used to the sound. I guess that's why Rickenbacker makes so many different models.

Ronn,
Did Hamer put the "Hi, My Name is Ronn" on it near the fretboard? I've seen them do similar things on other customs. It's a beauty.