Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $3,709

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Dive deep into the groove with the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo, a bass that redefines elegance with its 'Cresting Wave' body sans the traditional Rickenbacker embellishments. Its minimalist aesthetic underscores its straightforward, no-frills performance capability, appealing to bassists who value both form and function. With a lineage tracing back to the early '90s, this bass stands out for its solid build and distinctive tonal clarity, embodying the perfect blend of vintage vibe and modern playability. Whether you're laying down the foundation in a studio session or cutting through the mix on stage, the 4004 Laredo is your trusted companion.

Key Features:

  • Body Style: 'Cresting Wave' solidbody, showcasing a sleek and iconic design.
  • Wood Composition: Crafted from Maple for the body and neck, paired with a Rosewood fingerboard for a rich, resonant sound.
  • Neck-thru Construction: Ensures sustained tonal richness and smooth access across the fretboard.
  • Chrome-plated Hardware: Adds a touch of sophistication while ensuring durability.
  • Notable Players: Has been the choice of legends like Geddy Lee and Paul McCartney, marking its status in the music world.

Product specs

Brand Rickenbacker
Model 4004L Laredo
Finish Burgundyglo, Fireglo, Jetglo, Mapleglo, Midnight Blue, Snowglo, Turquoise
Year 2012 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Natural, Red, Tan, Teal, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Rickenbacker 4004
Model Sub-Family Rickenbacker 4004L
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Rickenbacker 4000 Series

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo's pickups?

The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo features passive humbucking pickups, offering a rich and warm tone with a strong midrange presence. This makes it suitable for a variety of music genres, from rock to jazz.

Is the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo suitable for beginners?

While the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo is a high-quality instrument, its features and price point may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its tonal capabilities and craftsmanship.

What is the neck profile like on the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo?

The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo features a comfortable maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, providing a smooth playing experience. Its neck profile is designed for easy playability, accommodating both fast runs and intricate fingerwork.

How does the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo compare to the 4003 model?

The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo differs from the 4003 model primarily in its pickup configuration and body design. The 4004 Laredo uses humbucking pickups for a thicker sound, while the 4003 typically features single-coil pickups for a brighter tone.

What finishes are available for the Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo?

The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo is available in a variety of finishes, including Burgundyglo, Fireglo, Jetglo, Mapleglo, Midnight Blue, Snowglo, and Turquoise, allowing players to choose a look that suits their personal style.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Rickenbacker 4004L "Laredo" Bass in Jetglo Finish | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4004L "Laredo" Bass in Jetglo Finish | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar by Chicago Music Exchange

Rickenbacker 4004L "Laredo" Bass in Jetglo Finish | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Peg    Steely Dan    On Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo by Richard Raymond

Peg Steely Dan On Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo

Richard Raymond

Richard Raymond

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo.

Comparisons

  • The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo's pickup spread offers a distinct tonal character, setting it apart from the more uniform sound of P-bass models.

    Source
  • The 4004 Laredo avoids the frustrations of bound bodies/necks found in the 4001/4003 series, offering a smoother playing experience.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The natural "Mapleglo" finish is favored for its simplicity and aesthetic appeal, contributing to the bass's unique visual identity.

    Source
  • The HB1 humbucking pickups are known for a darker tone, and their placement contributes to a woody, woofy sound, distinct from the 4003 model.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo is noted for its hollow and haunting sound, appealing to players seeking a distinctive tonal presence.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 4004 Laredo uses Schaller components, including tuners and strap pins, enhancing reliability and ease of use compared to older Rickenbacker models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the neck is wide and thick, which may be uncomfortable for players with smaller hands.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Stock wiring harness uses generic 330k pots, and the HB1 pickups are prone to wire breakage, potentially leading to dead pickups.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners replace the stock strap pins with a Dunlop locking system for improved security during performances.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick Jost uses Rickenbacker 4004 Laredo

Nick Jost

Bassist, Keyboardist

Baroness

...
Verified via Photo

Keys station for the #baroness Europe tour starting next week. #davesmith #prophet6

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc0qnhWDJjf/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=oaz3r4nz0lg7

This incredibly rare and insanely cool Rickenbacker 4004L (#13 out of a run of 15 total) is now available in my @reverb store (reverb.com/shop/john-baizley-gear-page.) @justjost loved this bass, but we’re trimming a bit of gear-fat this holiday season. No guitar of mine ever stayed in as nice condition as this one.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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