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Average Price: $2,425

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Description

The Rickenbacker 4000 is an iconic piece of music history, renowned for its distinct tone and exceptional playability. This electric bass guitar has been a staple in the music industry since its introduction, favored by both professional musicians and discerning hobbyists. Renowned for its neck-through-body construction, the 4000 offers remarkable sustain and resonance, ensuring that every note rings clear and true. Its sleek, ergonomic design not only looks striking but also provides a comfortable playing experience for bassists of all levels.

At the heart of the Rickenbacker 4000 is its single-pickup configuration, which delivers a punchy, articulate sound that cuts through any mix. This bass is perfect for genres ranging from rock to jazz, offering a versatile tonal palette that can adapt to any playing style. The maple body and neck, combined with the rosewood fingerboard, provide a balanced tonal foundation, ensuring the bass sounds just as good unplugged as it does amplified.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Rickenbacker 4000 stands out with its unmistakable sound and classic aesthetic. It's more than just an instrument; it's a testament to the art of bass guitar craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Single-pickup configuration for punchy, articulate sound
  • Maple body and neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Versatile tonal palette suitable for various genres
  • Classic design with ergonomic body shape for comfortable playing

Product specs

Brand Rickenbacker
Model 4000
Finish Autumnglo, Burgundyglo, Fireglo, Jetglo, Mapleglo
Year 1969 - 1987
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, Brown, Natural, Red, Tan
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Rickenbacker 4000
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Rickenbacker 4000 Series

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Rickenbacker 4000 bass?

The Rickenbacker 4000 offers a distinctive, punchy tone with strong midrange presence, making it ideal for rock and progressive music. Its single passive pickup delivers a clear and articulate sound that cuts through mixes effectively.

Is the Rickenbacker 4000 suitable for beginners?

While the Rickenbacker 4000 is renowned for its quality and unique sound, it may not be the best choice for beginners due to its premium build and specific tonal characteristics. It is better suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate its classic sound.

How does the Rickenbacker 4000 differ from the 4001 model?

The Rickenbacker 4000 is a single-pickup version, whereas the 4001 features a dual-pickup configuration, offering more tonal versatility. The 4000's simpler design appeals to players seeking a straightforward, vintage bass sound.

What is the neck profile of the Rickenbacker 4000 like?

The Rickenbacker 4000 features a slim, fast neck profile made of maple, providing comfortable playability for quick finger movements. This design is favored by bassists who enjoy a sleek, easy-to-navigate fretboard.

Can the Rickenbacker 4000 handle different music genres?

The Rickenbacker 4000 excels in rock and progressive genres due to its punchy and articulate tone. While it can adapt to other styles, its classic sound is most appreciated in settings where a strong midrange presence is desired.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass | Guitar of the Day

Video thumbnail for 1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass Jetglo | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass Jetglo | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1976 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 73 Rickenbacker 4000 by PinkbassmanMusic

73 Rickenbacker 4000

PinkbassmanMusic

PinkbassmanMusic

Video thumbnail for 1968 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass & 1972 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass by Normans Rare Guitars

1968 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass & 1972 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Super clean 1973 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass BEAUTIFUL by Radio Flite RC airplanes

Super clean 1973 Rickenbacker 4000 Bass BEAUTIFUL

Radio Flite RC airplanes

Radio Flite RC airplanes

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4000 - 1976 Review | Demo | Different Sound Options | Tone | Recording Tip | Short | HD by George George Bass

Rickenbacker 4000 - 1976 Review | Demo | Different Sound Options | Tone | Recording Tip | Short | HD

George George Bass

George George Bass

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4000.

Build quality

  • Owners mention the Harley Benton RB-414CS may have crooked tailpieces and stripped bridge pickup screw holes from the factory.

    Source
  • The Rickenbacker 4000 is noted for its single pickup configuration, which is less common compared to the dual-pickup 4001/4003 models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Active EQ on Jackenbackers (CBXNT DX) offers a vintage-voiced sound despite modern PJ pickups in Ric positions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1977 Aria copy, with its bolt-on neck and softer tone, provides a similar vibe to the Rickenbacker 4001 at a fraction of the cost.

    Source
  • Peavey T-40 is noted for its sound proximity to Rickenbackers, though it visually differs and isn't the most budget-friendly option.

    Source
  • Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass is highlighted for achieving a surprisingly close Rickenbacker tone in band settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Harley Benton RB-414CS owners report neck playability is excellent, though electronic issues like significant hum persist.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the unique play wear and aesthetic, which add character to the instrument and reflect its history of active use.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A 1987 Rickenbacker 4000, in good condition, is estimated to be worth around $1500, potentially increasing due to its rarity and vintage status.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Rickenbacker 4000 is appreciated for its ruggedness and ability to withstand hard use, making it suitable for aggressive playing styles typical in punk and metal genres.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's recommended to perform a professional cleaning and setup to preserve the instrument's value and functionality, especially given its age and potential for becoming a collectible.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dan Auerbach uses Rickenbacker 4000

Dan Auerbach

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Black Keys

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen in the second 0:18 of the Brothers Deluxe Remastered 10th Anniversary Edition, one of the photos contained in vinyl shows Dan Auerbach using a rickenbacker 4000 bass guitar in a studio recording.

See how Geddy Lee uses Rickenbacker 4000

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 0:07, a Natural finish Rickenbacker 4000 with a gold pickguard can be seen hanging on Lee's studio wall next to a Rickenbacker Double-neck Bass/Guitar. The 4000 model Bass is distinguishable from the 4001 in it's lack of a neck-pickup.

See how Shavo Odadjian uses Rickenbacker 4000

Shavo Odadjian

Guitarist, Bassist

System of a Down

...
Verified via Siteofadown

This bass is seen in the equipment list

See how Tom Petersson uses Rickenbacker 4000

Tom Petersson

Bassist

Cheap Trick

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

He also uses an original ’61 Rickenbacker 4000 in Fireglo – the single-pickup variant of the more popular 4001 (the 4000 has what was usually called the “horseshoe” pickup in the middle of body, and is lacking a neck pickup). His appreciation of this brand and model is another nod to Petersson’s single-pickup bass inclinations.

See how Tony Hicks uses Rickenbacker 4000

Tony Hicks

Singer, Guitarist

The Hollies

...
Verified via Photo

Throughout the 70s, when Bernie would go on piano, Tony would fill him in on bass (mainly on He Ain't Heavy and I Can't Tell The Bottom From The Top). The bass that Tony is playing here in Germany, around 1976 (according to Getty Images), still belongs to Bernie, which is a Rickenbacker 4000 with no neck pickup and only a bridge pickup.

See how Leon Wilkeson uses Rickenbacker 4000

Leon Wilkeson

Bassist

Lynyrd Skynyrd

...
Verified via Scribd

Leon Wilkeson is associated with the Rickenbacker 4000 bass, as noted on page 2 of the document titled "Lynyrd Skynyrd - Leon Wilkeson Equipment History" by Sean on Scribd. This bass was featured in promotional photos for the "Pronounced" album.

See how Jeremy Pritchard uses Rickenbacker 4000

Jeremy Pritchard

Bassist

Everything Everything

...
Verified via Guitar World

In this article posted by guitarworld.com, Jeremy mentions owning a Rickenbacker 4000.

"And I’ve got an old Rickenbacker, which I got when I was 19 for £200, and it’s worth about 10 times that now. It's a 4000, and it’s an unusually good-sounding Rick, considering it’s only got one pickup."

Also shown in this Instagram post by Jeremy.

See how C.F. "Fred" Turner uses Rickenbacker 4000

C.F. "Fred" Turner

Bassist

Bachman–Turner Overdrive

...
Verified via Getty Images

C.F. "Fred" Turner can also be seen using the Rickenbacker 4000 in the music video for the song "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet" at the 2:23 mark on Youtube.

See how Bernie Calvert uses Rickenbacker 4000

Bernie Calvert

Bassist, Keyboardist

The Hollies

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Jetglo

After performances with Fender basses, in early 1970, or 1971, Calvert switched to a Rickenbacker 4000 in Jetglo, with only 1 bridge pickup. Calvert would use this bass extensively during performances and recordings in the 70s, some notable songs with this bass would include Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress). In the 70s, he would interchange between the Rickenbacker and his Precision. It is unknown where this bass went a few months before departure, as he had other basses.

See how Greg Lindstrom uses Rickenbacker 4000

Greg Lindstrom

Guitarist, Bassist

Cirith Ungol

...
Verified via Cirithungol

Cirith Ungol's official website mentions Greg used a '67 Rickenbacker 4000 bass in a list of the band's equipment.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rickenbacker 4000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
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1
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1
Gretsch 6120
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1
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Fender Jazz Bass Electric Basses
1

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