Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I have been considering buying either a C64 or a C64s. What is a good price, used, for either of them and is the value different? Is there any difference between them (besides the sanded horn and satin vs gloss finish). I have heard the neck is thinner on the C64s than recent 4003's and V63's is that statement accurate?

The C64s also has a zero fret.

fret not...

This is where I am showing my ignorance. Why would anyone want a zero fret? When I was buying my first bass over 30 years ago one of the ways to tell a ‘proper’ one is if it didn’t have a zero fret. To this day I am confused as to what the benefit of a zero fret might be.

A zero fret makes an open string sound like a fretted note. Many people prefer the sound of a fretted A on the e string, for instance, than the open A; it isn't has harsh.

Bob-

A zero fret is supposed to keep your open string notes sounding the same as their fretted counterparts.(The plastic nut has a slightly different tone than a fretted note.) Also the action down at the nut side of the neck gets nice and low. Not that you couldn't file the string slots down low on a bass that doesn't have a zero fret, but...

Jinx!

Wow, you guys are quick..!

Now I get the zero fret thing. I actually like open strings because they have a diferent tonal quality. How come more instruments are not made with zero frets? They must be easier to make & setup.

Paul-

I think RIC lists the MSRP of the C64 at $2999.00 and the C64S at $3199.00. I don't know if dealers actually ask/sell the C64S for more than the C64 however, as I bought mine used from a forum member.

I have a 2003C64S and a 1998V63. I don't think the neck is substantially different. They're both the same width across the fretboard and about the same girth, but my v63 has a slightly more round feel to it. It could just be a production variation or my imagination.

I think I saw a recent C64 ebay auction sale around $1850.00 on a BIN.

Another difference between the C64 and C64S is that the C64S has a 70's style tailpiece and pickup surround to reflect those changes made to Sir Paul's bass during the 70's.

Paul, I think the neck is the same for both c64 and c64s. The sanded model sells for a few bucks more. I just sold mine, it was mint. I got what I paid for it, but I was lucky.
There is one that is mint too at this site. I see it was just reduced, looks like a good buy.
I think Brian Simer was looking at it too.
http://www.angelfire.com/jazz/kingmenow/

There you go...that's a good price!

If Jared were tuning in, he'd say...

Jeff, the ebay auction was mine. Some guy from Italy wanted it really bad. So actually It sold for $30 less than I paid. I was sad to see it go, but I have to put a new liner in our pool this season.

My condolences, Bob. Isn't there a nearby lake, river, or public swimming pool that you could swim in?!

Yes, but tell that to my wife

LOL....! (sorry Bob, couldn't resist)