Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,300
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Step back in time with the Rickenbacker 4001 (1977 duplicate), a bass guitar that merges vintage charm with timeless performance. Originally conceived as an enhanced version of the Rickenbacker 4000, this iconic instrument is renowned for its dual-pickup configuration, which delivers a rich spectrum of tones that have been celebrated by legendary musicians like Geddy Lee and Lemmy Kilmister. The 4001’s unique build offers a distinctive sound, characterized by its signature punchy low-end and articulate midrange, making it a must-have for bassists seeking both clarity and depth.
Crafted with the precision and attention to detail that Rickenbacker is known for, this 1977 duplicate not only replicates the classic aesthetics but also upholds the quality standards that made the original a staple in rock history. Its solid body construction and sleek neck design ensure a comfortable playing experience, whether you're on stage or in the studio. The Rickenbacker 4001 is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of music history that continues to inspire and resonate with bassists around the world.
Key Features:
- Dual-pickup configuration for expansive tonal range
- Signature punchy low-end with articulate midrange
- Solid body construction for durability and resonance
- Sleek neck design for comfortable playability
- Classic Rickenbacker aesthetics and build quality
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 kind of sound can I expect from the Rickenbacker 4001 bass?
-
The Rickenbacker 4001 is renowned for its distinctive bright, punchy tone with a strong midrange presence, making it ideal for rock and progressive music. Its dual single-coil pickups provide a rich harmonic content and sustain.
-
Is the Rickenbacker 4001 suitable for beginner bass players?
-
While the Rickenbacker 4001 offers exceptional sound quality, its unique neck profile and weight may be more comfortable for intermediate to advanced players. Beginners might find it slightly challenging compared to more entry-level basses.
-
What is the neck profile like on the Rickenbacker 4001?
-
The Rickenbacker 4001 features a slim neck profile, which allows for fast and smooth playability. This design is favored by many bassists for its comfort and ease of access across the fretboard.
-
Does the Rickenbacker 4001 support stereo output?
-
Yes, the Rickenbacker 4001 includes a Rick-O-Sound stereo output, allowing players to split the signal for enhanced tonal versatility and stereo effects when connected to compatible equipment.
-
How does the Rickenbacker 4001 handle different genres of music?
-
The Rickenbacker 4001 excels in rock, progressive, and metal genres due to its bright tone and strong midrange. However, its versatility also makes it suitable for jazz and pop, depending on the player's style and setup.
Videos
tab4ssK
1977 rickenbacker 4001 bass
Reviews
PROS
-
Iconic tone reminiscent of Chris Squire and Paul McCartney
-
Unique and distinctive sound, unmatched by other bass guitars
-
Lightning-fast neck for high-speed playing
-
Rich, deep, and clear sound across all strings
-
Vintage appeal with a classic look and feel
-
Exceptional tonal presence and specificity
-
Warm and vibrant sound through various amps
-
Great for recording iconic bass sounds
-
High playability with smooth action
-
Collectible vintage status
CONS
-
Poor bridge design complicates intonation adjustment
-
Dual truss rod system can be challenging to manage
-
Shellacked fingerboard may not appeal to everyone
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4001 (1977 duplicate).
Mods and upgrades
-
Installing a .0047uF capacitor acts as a high-pass filter on the bridge pickup, crucial for achieving the characteristic Rickenbacker "thin grindy" sound.
Source -
Nordstrand Fat Stacks in EMG35 size are recommended for approximating a Rickenbacker tone on a standard-scale bass.
Source -
Replacing the neck pickup with a high-gain humbucker contributes to the edge of distortion typical in Rickenbacker tones.
Source -
Owners suggest installing official Rickenbacker pickups in Harley Benton copies to improve tone, retaining a budget-friendly option compared to purchasing a genuine Rickenbacker.
Source
Comparisons
-
Peavey T40, despite its weight, is noted for a reasonable impression of the Rickenbacker sound, especially with the bridge pickup and all knobs up.
Source -
The Reverend Triad middle pickup position sounds close to a Ric bridge pickup, offering an alternative to achieve that sound.
Source -
Japanese brands like Aria, Hondo, and Ibanez from the 70s-80s are noted for making excellent Rickenbacker copies that closely match the 4001/4003 in appearance and sound.
Source -
Spector's Legend series is highlighted as a modern alternative for achieving a Rickenbacker-like tone due to its flexible tone-shaping capabilities.
Source
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
-
The Warwick bass is frequently compared in tonal quality to the Rickenbacker, despite differences in pickup placement and body design.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Rickenbacker Electric Basses
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
jakobsteveGear IQ 1121
-