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Average Price: $5,995

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Description

The Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature is a tribute to the pioneering bass tones of the legendary Yes bassist, Chris Squire. This electric bass guitar is designed to deliver the distinctive sound that defined progressive rock in the 1970s. With its maple body and neck-through construction, this instrument ensures sustain and resonance that can fill any stage or studio. The Rickenbacker 4001CS is equipped with custom-wound pickups, meticulously crafted to replicate Squire’s iconic sound while providing modern clarity and precision for today’s bassists.

The 4001CS comes adorned with unique features like its dot inlays and vintage-style hardware, reflecting the classic aesthetics of its era. Its slim neck profile offers exceptional playability, making it ideal for both intricate solos and driving bass lines. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Chris Squire or a bassist seeking an instrument with rich history and character, the Rickenbacker 4001CS delivers an unparalleled experience.

Key Features:

  • Signature model of legendary bassist Chris Squire
  • Maple body with neck-through construction for enhanced sustain
  • Custom-wound pickups for authentic vintage tone
  • Vintage-style hardware and dot inlays for classic aesthetics
  • Slim neck profile for improved playability

Product specs

Brand Rickenbacker
Model 4001CS Chris Squire
Finish Cream
Year 1991 - 2000
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Artist Chris Squire
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
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, Rickenbacker Artist Signature

FAQs

What makes the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature different from other Rickenbacker basses?

The Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature is a limited-edition model based on Chris Squire's 1964 Rickenbacker 4001, featuring a unique cream finish and matching headstock. It is part of a limited run of only 1,000 units produced between 1991 and 2000.

What type of pickups are used in the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature?

The Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature features passive pickups in a single-single (SS) configuration, providing the classic Rickenbacker tone that is well-suited for rock and progressive music.

Is the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature suitable for beginners?

While the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature offers exceptional build quality and sound, its limited availability and collector's status make it more suitable for experienced players and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique features and historical significance.

What is the neck profile like on the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature?

The Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature features a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, providing a smooth playing experience with a comfortable profile that supports fast playing styles.

How does the Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature perform in live settings?

The Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature is known for its distinct tone and projection, making it an excellent choice for live performances, especially in rock and progressive genres where clarity and punch are desired.

miguelbass

miguelbass

Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire signature bass

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire signature bass by miguelbass

Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire signature bass

miguelbass

miguelbass

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4001CS  / Taurus - Yes StarshipTrooper by Bernard Nicoll

Rickenbacker 4001CS / Taurus - Yes StarshipTrooper

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4001CS  Yes Long distance by Bernard Nicoll

Rickenbacker 4001CS Yes Long distance

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4001CS on a Yes track Close to the Edge Take1 Part1 by Bernard Nicoll

Rickenbacker 4001CS on a Yes track Close to the Edge Take1 Part1

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Video thumbnail for RARE RICKENBACKER CHRIS SQUIRE 4001CS 1991 LIMITED EDITION YES BASS GUITAR by Essex Recording Studios

RARE RICKENBACKER CHRIS SQUIRE 4001CS 1991 LIMITED EDITION YES BASS GUITAR

Essex Recording Studios

Essex Recording Studios

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature.

Comparisons

  • Rickenbacker 4001CS is compared to standard 4001 and 4003 models; opinions on ergonomics are polarized, impacting comfort and playability.

    Source
  • Consider Yamaha BB basses as an alternative for a different sound and feel from standard P and J basses.

    Source
  • The Peavey T40 is frequently cited as a cost-effective alternative for achieving a Chris Squire-like tone without the high price of a Rickenbacker.

    Source

User experience

  • The rarity of the 4001CS, with only 1000 made, makes trying one before purchasing challenging but important for personal fit.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Squire's unique stereo rewiring allowed separate amplification for bass and treble pickups, enhancing tonal clarity and preserving bass response.

    Source
  • The Rickenbacker 4001CS can replicate Chris Squire's lead bass style, ideal for progressive rock and dynamic bass lines.

    Source
  • The unique pickup placement of the Rickenbacker 4003, where the neck pickup is positioned at the 2nd octave, is crucial to achieving its signature sound.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Using a plectrum with a short grip creates subtle harmonics, enhancing tonal complexity.

    Source
  • Retrovibe by Chowny and Classic Amplification pickups are suggested for those seeking to replicate the Rickenbacker 4001CS sound through custom builds.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Squire's use of low string action intentionally induced fret buzz, adding a distinctive growling edge to his tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Rickenbacker 4001CS excels in producing the bright, growling higher frequencies needed for aggressive and melodic bass playing.

    Source
  • Nick Beggs achieves a Chris Squire-like tone using a Spector Euro 5, especially noted in Steven Wilson's "Luminol".

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used Rickenbacker 4003 basses with considerable wear can be acquired for around $1500, offering a more affordable entry point into the Rickenbacker experience.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Rickenbacker’s low output vintage 4001 pickups contribute to its characteristic lo-fi sound, a feature that many modern players find appealing.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Justin Chancellor uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Justin Chancellor

Bassist

Tool

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo published by Bassplayer, Justin Chancellor is seen with a Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature bass, positioned as the fifth bass behind him.

See how Steven Wilson uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Steven Wilson

Singer, Guitarist

Porcupine Tree

...
Verified via Facebook

Wilson can be seen in this photo playing a Rickenbacker 4001CS.

See how Greg Edwards uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Greg Edwards

Guitarist, Bassist

A Perfect Circle

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout the music video for Undone, Greg can be seen playing a Chris Squire Rickenbacker which he borrowed from Paul D’Amour of Tool and Ministry

See how Paul D'Amour uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Paul D'Amour

Bassist, Composer

Tool

...
Verified via Photo

During Paul's time in TOOL, Paul primarily used a Rickenbacker 4001 Chris Squire Signature for both recording and live performances.

See how Pedro Aznar uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Pedro Aznar

Singer, Guitarist

Pat Metheny Group

...
Verified via Photo

Rickenbacker 4001 CS, signature del bajista de la banda británica Yes Chris Squire, que Pedro Adquirió en Estados Unidos cuando fue a tocar con Pat Metheny.

Rickenbacker 4001 CS, signature from the bassist of the British band Yes Chris Squire, which Pedro acquired in the US when he was playing with Pat Metheny.

See how Søren Madsen uses Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature

Søren Madsen

Singer, Guitarist

Michael Learns to Rock

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Søren Madsen can be seen using Rickenbacker 4001CS

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rickenbacker 4001CS Chris Squire Signature, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Boss LS-2 Line Selector
Boss LS-2 Line Selector Switch Effects Pedals
1
Music Man Stingray
Music Man Stingray Electric Basses
1

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