Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,250
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Rickenbacker 4003SW". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your musical potential with the Rickenbacker 4003SW Natural Walnut, a bass guitar that fuses the timeless elegance of classic design with modern craftsmanship. Known for its neck-through-body construction, this instrument offers unparalleled sustain and resonance, ensuring that every note you play rings with clarity and depth. The natural walnut body, adorned with rounded edges, not only provides a stunning visual appeal but also contributes to a warm, rich tonal quality.
The unvarnished maple fretboard, complemented by subtle dot inlays, offers a smooth playing experience across its 20 frets. Whether you're laying down a solid groove or stepping into the spotlight for a solo, the dual bass single-coil pickups deliver a versatile sound palette, from deep, growling lows to bright, punchy highs. Equipped with Schaller Deluxe machine heads, the Rickenbacker 4003SW ensures precise tuning stability, so you can focus on your performance without worry.
Perfect for the discerning bassist who demands both beauty and brawn from their instrument, this bass is as much a piece of art as it is a tool for musical expression.
Key Features:
- Body: Walnut with rounded edges
- Neck-through-body construction
- Unvarnished maple fretboard with dot inlays
- 20 frets with a scale length of 845 mm
- Nut width: 42.9 mm
- Pickups: 2 bass single-coil pickups
- Schaller Deluxe machine heads
- Includes case for protection and portability
Product specs
| Brand | Rickenbacker |
| Model | 4003SW Walnut |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 2014 - 2025 |
| 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 | Brown, Natural |
| Finish Features | Matching Headstock |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| Fretboard Material | Maple |
| Fretboard Radius | 10" |
| Model Family | Rickenbacker 4003 |
| Model Sub-Family | Rickenbacker 4003SW |
| 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
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What type of wood is used in the body of the Rickenbacker 4003SW Natural Walnut?
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The Rickenbacker 4003SW features a body made from walnut, which contributes to its warm and resonant tone, while the neck is constructed from maple for added stability and brightness.
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Does the Rickenbacker 4003SW have active or passive pickups?
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The Rickenbacker 4003SW is equipped with passive single-coil pickups, offering a classic and punchy sound that is well-suited for a variety of music genres.
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What is the neck profile of the Rickenbacker 4003SW?
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The Rickenbacker 4003SW has a C-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for many bass players, and is ideal for both fast playing and chordal work.
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Is the Rickenbacker 4003SW suitable for beginners?
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While the Rickenbacker 4003SW is a high-quality instrument favored by experienced players, its straightforward design and playability can also make it suitable for dedicated beginners looking for a long-term investment.
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How many frets does the Rickenbacker 4003SW have, and what is the scale length?
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The Rickenbacker 4003SW features 20 frets and a scale length of 33.25 inches, offering a slightly shorter scale than standard, which can make it easier to play for some musicians.
Videos
LowEndLobster
Rickenbacker 4003SW - Meet 'Wally', the Modified Marvelous Ric! - LowEndLobster Fresh Look
Reviews
PROS
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Comfortable, lightweight design ideal for long playing sessions
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Improved V2 bridge with better intonation and string spacing
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Push-pull tone pot for versatile vintage and modern sounds
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Natural walnut finish with beautiful aesthetics
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Rounded edges enhance comfort, avoiding forearm discomfort
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Distinctive Rickenbacker sound with growl and treble bite
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Smooth, fast neck with satin finish for easy playability
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Modern neck design offers a solid yet slim feel
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Versatile tone range with improved neck pickup balance
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Notably lighter than maple counterparts, reducing neck dive
CONS
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Fret edges often reported as sharp, affecting comfort
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Inconsistent electronics quality; noisy toggle and pots
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Bridge pickup significantly louder than neck pickup
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Some soldering and body routing issues reported
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4003SW.
Use cases and applications
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The 4003SW delivers "sweet creamy mids" and "fuller tube grind" when pushed through a 70s Ampeg V4B, excelling around the 12th fret.
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Despite its unique tone, some players find the 4003SW challenging to mix live, often requiring a proper sound engineer to balance it effectively in the mix.
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The bass excels in studio settings, with its distinct tone cutting through the mix, especially when using roundwound strings.
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Other
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The hard case is considered poorly designed, with reports of it breaking easily, not effectively protecting the instrument.
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Features and functionality
Comparisons
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The 4003SW's neck profile is compared to a sawn-in-half baseball bat, while others liken it to a classical guitar neck, contrasting with Fender Jazz's thinner neck.
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The 4003SW is lighter and smoother in playability compared to lacquered 4003 models, affecting action and sustain under heavy playing.
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Despite appreciating the unique tone, some players struggle with the weight and ergonomics compared to lighter basses like the Steinberger.
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Mods and upgrades
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Users recommend a Zero Mod thumb rest and treble bezel to improve playability and avoid finger discomfort from sharp pickup edges.
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Owners have swapped stock pickups with JBE pickups for better volume consistency and output, while maintaining classic Rick tone.
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Removing the pickup cover for a treble bezel is a common modification, improving access to the sweet spot for playing.
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Setup and maintenance
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The dual truss rod system is challenging to adjust properly, with some owners experiencing difficulty achieving optimal neck relief.
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The tung oil finish requires maintenance every six months, particularly in dry regions.
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Users note the sharp body binding can dig into the forearm, with wristbands suggested to alleviate discomfort.
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Build quality
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Some owners report finish bubbling around components and sticky lacquer issues due to conversion varnish, especially if stored in the case for extended periods.
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Some owners appreciate the aesthetic impact of replacing the truss rod cover and pickguard, enhancing the bass's visual appeal.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rickenbacker 4003SW, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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