Pricing and availability
* 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
The Vintage Ricky Copy Made in Japan in 1970 by El Degas
The El Degas “Ricky” Copy (circa 1970s) is a Japanese-made “lawsuit-era” bass modeled closely after the iconic Rickenbacker 4001. Produced as part of the El Degas replica series, these instruments were built to mimic popular American designs at a fraction of the cost, while still offering surprisingly solid build quality. El Degas instruments from this period were typically manufactured in Japan and distributed in North America, gaining popularity for their affordability and playability. The “Ricky” copy captures the distinctive body shape, bright tonal character, and visual style associated with progressive rock bassists of the era. While exact specifications can vary due to limited documentation, surviving examples are generally regarded as well-made vintage copies with a unique charm and collectible appeal.
Specs:
• Body: Solid body, usually maple or similar tonewood (Rickenbacker-style shape)
• Neck: Bolt-on or set maple neck (varies by factory)
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: ~33.25" (shorter than Fender-style, typical of Rickenbacker design)
• Pickups: 2 × single-coil (Rickenbacker-style configuration)
• Controls: Dual volume, dual tone, selector switch
• Bridge: Fixed bridge with adjustable saddles
• Construction: Made in Japan (early–mid 1970s “lawsuit era”)
• Finish: Commonly Fireglo-style sunburst or natural
• Hardware: Chrome (Rickenbacker-style tailpiece/bridge design)
Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More El Degas Electric Basses
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
hashimotoGear IQ 14679
-