Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $30,139

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

Step into the world of versatile soundscapes with the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck, a distinctive instrument crafted for musicians who demand both depth and range in their performances. This dual-neck marvel combines a 4-string bass and a 6-string guitar into a single, seamless design. Whether you're laying down deep bass grooves or soaring through intricate guitar solos, this instrument provides unparalleled flexibility.

Crafted with precision, the Rickenbacker 4080 features the brand's iconic body shape, ensuring both comfort and playability. The bass neck offers a classic Rickenbacker tone, renowned for its rich warmth and clarity, while the guitar neck brings a bright, articulate sound that cuts through any mix. With separate outputs for each neck, you have the option to run different effects chains, amplifying your creative possibilities during live performances or studio sessions.

The Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck is not just about versatility; it’s about making a statement. Its unique design is a conversation starter and a testament to your dedication to your craft. For those who seek to push the boundaries of musical expression, this is your canvas.

Key Features:

  • Dual neck configuration: 4-string bass and 6-string guitar
  • Iconic Rickenbacker body shape
  • Separate outputs for each neck
  • Classic Rickenbacker bass tone with articulate guitar sound
  • Perfect for live performances and studio recordings

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 are the main features of the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck?

The Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck features both a 4-string bass and a 6-string guitar neck, allowing musicians to switch between bass and guitar seamlessly. It has a solid body with a set-neck construction and is available in finishes like Fireglo and Jetglo.

How does the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck handle in terms of weight and playability?

The Rickenbacker 4080 is known for being relatively heavy due to its double-neck design, which can affect playability for extended sessions. However, its unique configuration allows for versatile playing options and is favored by musicians who need both bass and guitar capabilities in one instrument.

Is the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck is well-suited for live performances, offering the versatility of switching between bass and guitar mid-set. Its iconic design and solid body construction make it a visually and sonically impressive choice for stage use.

What type of pickups does the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck use?

The Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck is equipped with single-coil pickups, providing a bright and clear sound characteristic of Rickenbacker instruments. These pickups are designed to deliver a distinct tonal quality for both the bass and guitar sections.

What are the available finish options for the Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck?

The Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck is available in a variety of finishes, including Fireglo, Jetglo, Ruby, and White. These finishes offer a range of aesthetic choices to suit different preferences while maintaining the classic Rickenbacker look.

Patrick

Patrick

1975 Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck

Video thumbnail for 1975 Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck by Patrick

1975 Rickenbacker 4080 Double Neck

Patrick

Patrick

Video thumbnail for demo - Rickenbacker 4080 by Patrick

demo - Rickenbacker 4080

Patrick

Patrick

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 Double-Neck.

Build quality

  • The Rickenbacker 4080 features a double truss rod to prevent neck warp, a common issue with Rickenbackers.

    Source
  • The bolt-on necks have been critiqued for a loose neck-pocket fit, affecting overall playability and sound quality.

    Source
  • Some custom builders opt for a set neck guitar side and a neck-through bass side to address stability issues found in the original 4080 design.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the substantial weight of the 4080, with some referring to it as the “Heavy Bastard,” emphasizing its physical demands on players.

    Source
  • The 4080 is often seen as a collectible or display piece even by those who don’t play bass, highlighting its aesthetic and nostalgic appeal.

    Source
  • The bass neck height makes playing awkward, as it sits too high relative to the guitar neck.

    Source
  • Custom builders aim to eliminate common design flaws found in original Rickenbackers, such as the bolt-on necks, by using alternative construction methods for improved stability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 4080 is particularly valued in Rush tribute performances, aligning with its historical use by Geddy Lee.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One owner found a reasonably priced 4080 near NYC, indicating regional availability can affect cost.

    Source

Other

  • Production numbers are estimated around 200, with 50 being 4080/12 models, indicating rarity and collectible status.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some builders use Seymour Duncan humbucker pickups for a hotter output on the bass side, as they are more affordable and offer a different tonal character than original Rickenbacker pickups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 12-string headstock design is sometimes altered to improve the overall instrument, indicating flexibility in customization for better performance.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Geddy Lee uses Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via Photo

In this source picture, Geddy Lee can be seen with the black Rickenbacker 4080/12. It's also used for the song "Xanadu" (http://bit.ly/1wNinqh). Geddy can be heard playing the 12-string neck from 10:38 onwards. He also used a 4080 bass/6 string for "A Passage to Bangkok" on the "Exit...Stage Left" video and audio, playing rhythm guitar during Alex Lifeson's solo.

See how Les Claypool uses Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck

Les Claypool

Singer, Bassist

Primus

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see Les with a Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck - Black.

See how Al Cisneros uses Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck

Al Cisneros

Singer, Bassist

Sleep

...
Verified via YouTube

According to his Wikipedia, this is a part of his gear. In the Youtube video we can see that he plays this bass in a concert in Denver. The only 4080 in existence with Aquaglo finish, checkerboard binding on body and both necks, and full-width crushed pearl inlays. Constructed for Al using a 4001 body and hardware and custom woodwork for body and necks.

See how Popo Romano uses Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck

Popo Romano

Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

Foto utilizando un Rickenbacker doble mango guitarra / bajo

Album Usage

The Rickenbacker 4080 Double-Neck has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

More Rickenbacker Electric Basses

Rickenbacker 4003

$2,199.00 - $2,899.00

# 3

Rank

Paul McCartney Cliff Burton Peter Steele
186 artists using
Rickenbacker 4003S

$2,149.00 - $2,635.00

# 19

Rank

John Lennon Jack Bruce Scott Shriner
22 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides