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Average Price: $2,300

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Description

The Rickenbacker 4001 (1979 duplicate) is more than just an electric bass; it's a piece of music history. Revered by legends such as Geddy Lee and Lemmy Kilmister, this instrument is celebrated for its distinctive dual-pickup design that elevates its tonal versatility. Originally introduced as an upgrade to the Rickenbacker 4000, the 4001 boasts a unique combination of punchy lows and articulate highs that make it a favorite among bassists seeking a balanced, robust sound.

Crafted with precision, the 4001 features a neck-through-body construction, providing exceptional sustain and stability. Its slim neck profile and well-balanced body make it a joy to play, whether you're laying down a groove in the studio or rocking out on stage. The bass is also equipped with a stereo output, a rare feature that allows for unprecedented control over your tone by letting you send each pickup signal to different amplifiers or channels.

If you’re part of our musician community, share your experiences with the Rickenbacker 4001 and connect with fellow bass enthusiasts who appreciate its enduring legacy. This bass is not just an instrument; it's a conversation starter, a relic of rock history, and a canvas for your musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Dual-pickup configuration for expanded tonal range
  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Slim neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Stereo output for versatile signal routing
  • Historically favored by iconic bass players

Product specs

Brand Rickenbacker
Model 4001
Finish Autumnglo, Azureglo, Burgundyglo, Fireglo, Jetglo, Mapleglo, Ruby, Silver, Walnut, White
Year 1973 - 1983
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Natural, Red, Silver, Tan, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Rickenbacker 4001
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Rickenbacker 4000 Series

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Rickenbacker 4001?

The Rickenbacker 4001 features a slim neck profile, which is comfortable for fast playing and ideal for bassists who prefer a thinner, more agile neck.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Rickenbacker 4001 for rock music?

The Rickenbacker 4001 delivers a distinctive, punchy tone with a strong midrange presence, making it well-suited for rock music. Its passive pickups provide a classic Rickenbacker growl and clarity.

Is the Rickenbacker 4001 suitable for beginners?

While the Rickenbacker 4001 is renowned for its quality and unique sound, its premium build and specific tonal character may be better appreciated by more experienced players.

Does the Rickenbacker 4001 have stereo output capabilities?

Yes, the Rickenbacker 4001 includes a stereo output feature, allowing players to split the signal for enhanced tonal versatility.

How does the Rickenbacker 4001 compare to modern bass guitars?

The Rickenbacker 4001 is known for its iconic design and sound, offering a vintage tone that many modern bass guitars emulate but rarely replicate in terms of its unique character and build quality.

PinkbassmanMusic

PinkbassmanMusic

1979 Rickenbacker 4001

Video thumbnail for 1979 Rickenbacker 4001 by PinkbassmanMusic

1979 Rickenbacker 4001

PinkbassmanMusic

PinkbassmanMusic

Video thumbnail for 1979 Rickenbacker 4001 bass - Walnut by Bambibau

1979 Rickenbacker 4001 bass - Walnut

Bambibau

Bambibau

Video thumbnail for 1979 Rickenbacker 4001 Jetglo by PinkbassmanMusic

1979 Rickenbacker 4001 Jetglo

PinkbassmanMusic

PinkbassmanMusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Produces iconic twang reminiscent of Chris Squire and Paul McCartney

  • Unique and unmatched tonal presence

  • Lightning-fast neck for high-speed play

  • Stunning, bright, and clear sound across all strings

  • Distinctive and classic aesthetic appeal

  • Offers a deep, warm, and beautifully resonant sound

  • Highly valued for vintage collectors

  • Inspires passionate devotion and long-term satisfaction

  • Makes a strong impression, even among seasoned musicians

CONS

  • Poor bridge design complicates intonation adjustments

  • Dual truss rod system can be challenging to manage

  • Lacquered fingerboards may not appeal to all players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4001 (1979 duplicate).

Comparisons

  • The 4001 has a brighter, treblier tone, while the 4003 is known for a more bass-heavy sound, influenced by capacitor differences in the tone circuit.

    Source
  • A user transitioned from a Rickenbacker to a Stingray, highlighting that Rics tend to favor pick playing styles, contrasting with the Stingray's versatility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Rickenbacker 4001s purchased through local classifieds or personal connections can offer better deals compared to music stores, especially for vintage models.

    Source
  • Buying used Rickenbackers from international sellers can be cost-effective, with some users finding bargains by purchasing from countries with lower local prices.

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  • Rickenbackers maintain resale value well, with used models often priced higher than new due to limited availability, especially in unique finishes.

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User experience

  • Some owners report their Rickenbacker 4001s as being their primary instrument, with long-term satisfaction and no desire to purchase other basses after acquiring one.

    Source
  • The body binding on the 4003 can be uncomfortable for some players, particularly when resting the forearm during play.

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  • Some owners experience hum issues under certain lighting conditions, making Rickenbackers less suitable for settings like churches.

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Use cases and applications

  • Left-handed models are particularly rare, and finding one in-store is often considered a significant stroke of luck by left-handed players.

    Source
  • The Rick-o-Sound feature allows separate processing of pickups, beneficial for recording with different effects on each pickup.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 4003S lacks the Ric-o-Sound stereo output, making it a more straightforward option without stereo capabilities.

    Source
  • The 4001 neck pickup is closer to the neck compared to the 4003, impacting tonal range and playability.

    Source
  • Newer Rickenbackers have improved bridge designs and now often feature a single truss rod, addressing historical setup challenges.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners report older Rickenbacker 4001 models may have issues with soft steel frets that wear quickly and require expensive refretting due to the lacquered fretboard.

    Source
  • Owners report that some Rickenbacker 4003 models come with a misaligned bridge due to transitional design changes, affecting intonation setup.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A luthier spent two full days fixing factory issues on a 4003S, including a broken foam mute and improperly installed bridge.

    Source
  • It's noted that the double truss rod can be finicky and should not be adjusted under full string tension to avoid damaging the fretboard.

    Source

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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