Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $30,092

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1501+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

For musicians who crave versatility, the Rickenbacker 4080 is a game-changer in the world of extended range guitars. This unique instrument offers the perfect blend of a double-neck guitar and bass, allowing performers to seamlessly switch between the two during a set. The Rickenbacker 4080 is not just a guitar; it's a powerhouse of musical innovation, offering two distinct necks that can cater to both guitarists and bassists alike. Its iconic design and craftsmanship have been a staple in the music industry, making it a favorite among performers who demand both quality and functionality.

Built with precision, the Rickenbacker 4080 features a solid body construction that ensures durability and a rich, full sound. The dual truss rod system provides the necessary structural support to accommodate the extended range without compromising on playability or tone. Musicians can expect a smooth transition between the guitar and bass necks, thanks to the ergonomic design that promotes comfort during long sessions.

Whether you're looking to expand your musical capabilities or simply want an instrument that stands out, the Rickenbacker 4080 offers versatility and reliability, making it a valuable addition to any musician's arsenal.

Key Features:

  • Dual-neck design with both guitar and bass functionality
  • Solid body construction for enhanced durability
  • Dual truss rod system for improved neck stability
  • High-quality Rickenbacker pickups for clear sound output
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable playability

Product specs

Brand Rickenbacker
Model 4080 Double Neck Guitar / Bass
Finish Fireglo, Jetglo, Ruby, White
Year 1975 - 1985
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Color Family Black, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Rickenbacker 4080
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Strings 4-String, 6-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Rickenbacker 4000 Series

FAQs

What is the Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck Guitar/Bass primarily used for?

The Rickenbacker 4080 is designed for musicians who want the versatility of both a guitar and a bass in one instrument, making it ideal for live performances where quick transitions between the two are needed.

How does the neck construction of the Rickenbacker 4080 affect its playability?

The Rickenbacker 4080 features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and provides a seamless playing experience, particularly beneficial for musicians who require smooth transitions between the guitar and bass necks.

What kind of pickups does the Rickenbacker 4080 use, and how do they influence its sound?

The Rickenbacker 4080 utilizes a single-coil pickup configuration, offering a bright and clear tone that is characteristic of Rickenbacker instruments, suitable for both guitar and bass applications.

Is the Rickenbacker 4080 suitable for left-handed players?

The Rickenbacker 4080 is designed for right-handed players, and there is no standard left-handed version available, which may require left-handed players to seek custom modifications.

What are the available finish options for the Rickenbacker 4080?

The Rickenbacker 4080 is available in several finishes, including Fireglo, Jetglo, Ruby, and White, allowing musicians to choose a style that best fits their aesthetic preferences.

miamigroove

miamigroove

RUSH TUTORIAL (Xanadu) 4080 Doubleneck bass/guitar, Moog Minimoog, Taurus pedals

Video thumbnail for RUSH TUTORIAL (Xanadu) 4080 Doubleneck bass/guitar, Moog Minimoog, Taurus pedals by miamigroove

RUSH TUTORIAL (Xanadu) 4080 Doubleneck bass/guitar, Moog Minimoog, Taurus pedals

miamigroove

miamigroove

Video thumbnail for 1975 Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck by Patrick

1975 Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck

Patrick

Patrick

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4080 Test-Drive... by Joe Tritschler

Rickenbacker 4080 Test-Drive...

Joe Tritschler

Joe Tritschler

Video thumbnail for demo - Rickenbacker 4080 by Patrick

demo - Rickenbacker 4080

Patrick

Patrick

Video thumbnail for 1981 Rickenbacker 4080 "Anthem Snippet" by Joe Tritschler

1981 Rickenbacker 4080 "Anthem Snippet"

Joe Tritschler

Joe Tritschler

Video thumbnail for Rush - 2112: The Temples Of Syrinx Bass Cover. Rickenbacker 4080 by Joe Tritschler

Rush - 2112: The Temples Of Syrinx Bass Cover. Rickenbacker 4080

Joe Tritschler

Joe Tritschler

Video thumbnail for Rickenbacker 4080 - Practicing my six-string skills... by Joe Tritschler

Rickenbacker 4080 - Practicing my six-string skills...

Joe Tritschler

Joe Tritschler

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 4080.

Build quality

  • Owners note that Rickenbackers, including the 4080, can suffer from neck warp issues, but the double truss rod design helps in maintaining straight necks.

    Source
  • The 4080 features set necks for enhanced stability, with the guitar side being set neck and the bass side being neck-through, contrary to common belief about bolt-on designs.

    Source

User experience

  • The 4080 is known for its substantial weight, earning the nickname "Heavy Bastard" from users who compare it to other double-neck guitars.

    Source
  • The custom hard case, such as Anvil's, is noted for being particularly heavy, adding to the instrument's overall substantial weight.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Primarily valued by Rush tribute musicians and collectors, its practical use for non-performers is limited unless for specific stylistic needs or collection purposes.

    Source
  • The 4080-12 is not only a collector's piece but also considered a "beautiful beast" for its visual and historical appeal, making it a conversation starter.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A rare find, often with significant value appreciation; one was found reasonably priced with a single owner history, suggesting potential deals exist depending on location and seller history.

    Source
  • The Rickenbacker 4080-12 variant is extremely rare, with only about 50 made, suggesting it could fetch over $20k due to scarcity.

    Source
  • Despite being rare, some 4080 models have sold for as low as $6,000-$8,000, depending on condition and originality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Seymour Duncan replacement pickups are favored for their hotter output and affordability compared to original Rickenbacker pickups, often used to enhance bass performance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bolt-on plates on the back of Rickenbackers are actually for reinforcement, with the original design being set neck, adding to the instrument's sturdiness.

    Source

Other

  • An anecdotal account highlights that some Rickenbacker 4080s have colorful histories, having passed through unique circumstances like being traded by non-musician collectors.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jason Newsted uses Rickenbacker 4080

Jason Newsted

Bassist

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

At 4:29 in the Reverb video "Jason Newsted Is Selling Some Incredible Gear From His Career," Jason Newsted is shown presenting a 1980 Rickenbacker 4080 double-neck Deep Blue Finish guitar.

See how Mike Starr uses Rickenbacker 4080

Mike Starr

Bassist

Alice in Chains

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from Metalinsider, Mike Starr is pictured with a Rickenbacker 4080, indicating his use of this extended range guitar.

See how Pete Trewavas uses Rickenbacker 4080

Pete Trewavas

Bassist

Marillion

...
Verified via Photo

The picture shows Pete with a Rickenbacker 4080 on stage with Marillion at the 2009 Canadian Marillion weekend festival in Montreal

See how John Lodge uses Rickenbacker 4080

John Lodge

Singer, Bassist

The Moody Blues

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, Lodge can be seen playing a Rickenbacker 4080.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rickenbacker 4080, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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