Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $5,116
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
The Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut is a distinguished choice for bassists seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance. This 5-string bass delivers the hallmark Rickenbacker tone, renowned for its punchy low end and crisp high frequencies. Crafted with a walnut body, this bass not only offers a rich, resonant sound but also showcases stunning natural wood aesthetics. The neck-through construction provides exceptional sustain and stability, ensuring your notes ring true with every pluck and strum.
Equipped with a pair of single-coil pickups, the 4003S/5W Walnut produces a versatile range of tones suitable for various musical genres. The simple yet effective control layout features volume and tone knobs for each pickup, allowing for precise tonal shaping. The bass's ergonomic body contouring ensures comfortable playability, whether you're laying down grooves in the studio or performing on stage.
The Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut stands out not just for its sound but also for its high-quality craftsmanship. The maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide smooth playability, while the Schaller bridge and tuners ensure reliable tuning stability. With its iconic design and robust construction, this bass is a worthy addition to any musician's arsenal.
Key Features:
- 5-string configuration for extended range
- Neck-through body design for enhanced sustain
- Walnut body with maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- Dual single-coil pickups for versatile sound
- Individual volume and tone controls for each pickup
- Schaller bridge and tuners for reliable tuning stability
- Comfortable body contouring for improved playability
Product specs
| Brand | Rickenbacker |
| Model | 4003S/5W Walnut |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 2018 - 2021 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 5- and 6-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Brown, Natural |
| Finish Features | Matching Headstock |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| Fretboard Material | Maple |
| Fretboard Radius | 10" |
| Model Family | Rickenbacker 4003 |
| Model Sub-Family | Rickenbacker 4003S/5W |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 5-String |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Rickenbacker 4000 Series |
FAQs
-
What are the tonal characteristics of the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut?
-
The Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut offers a rich, warm tone with a distinct clarity, thanks to its all-maple construction and passive pickups. It's known for its punchy low end and articulate midrange, making it versatile for various music genres.
-
Is the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut suitable for beginners?
-
While the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut is a high-quality instrument, its unique features and 5-string configuration may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its tonal capabilities.
-
How does the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut differ from the standard 4003 model?
-
The 4003S/5W Walnut features a walnut body with a satin finish and no body binding, unlike the standard 4003, which typically includes binding. This gives the 4003S/5W a slightly different aesthetic and feel.
-
What is the neck profile like on the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut?
-
The Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut has a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which offers smooth playability and easy access to all 20 frets, making it ideal for fast playing styles.
-
Does the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut come with active electronics?
-
No, the Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut is equipped with passive pickups and does not feature an active preamp, providing a classic and natural bass tone.
Reviews
PROS
-
Wide range of timbre, unmatched by other basses
-
Adjustable string spacing and neck width for personalized play
-
Stunning two-tone walnut/maple finish
-
Exceptional resonance; low B and A tuning shake the house
-
Individual eight-way adjustable bridge simplifies intonation and string height adjustments
-
New pickups provide versatile and killer sound
-
Comfortable neck-through-body design despite heavier weight
CONS
-
Sharp frets can cause discomfort during play
-
Push-pull treble volume pot can be inadvertently engaged
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4003S/5W Walnut.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
-
Dual truss rods can require adjustments in dry climates; having a tool for this is recommended for ease of maintenance.
Source -
Tung oil is preferred for oiling, with some owners recommending light sanding using 800-1000 grit sandpaper before application for better absorption.
Source -
Strings can remain on during oiling if loosened, allowing easier access to tight areas without needing to restring.
Source -
Avoid applying oil on plastic or metal parts to prevent discoloration and pitting; these materials do not benefit from oiling.
Source
User experience
-
Owners report the B-string sounds surprisingly good despite the shorter 33.25” scale, providing satisfying sound and feel compared to other 5-string options.
Source -
The Aguilar Tone Hammer is favored for adding warmth when used in conjunction with various amplifiers and through effects loops.
Source
Comparisons
Features and functionality
-
The Ric-o-sound feature allows for creative stereo output setups, enhancing the tonal palette with separate FX chains for each pickup.
Source
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
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
andrewnelsonforrealGear IQ 188
-