Pricing and availability

Average Price: $2,000

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Dive into the timeless elegance and unique tone of the Rickenbacker 420, a classic in the realm of solid body electric guitars. Crafted with precision in the United States, this guitar embodies both historic charm and modern playability. Known for its streamlined body, the Rickenbacker 420 features the distinctive Hi-Gain single-coil pickup, delivering clear, bright tones that have captivated musicians across genres.

The maple body and neck construction not only ensure durability but also enhance the guitar's resonant sound quality. The slim neck profile offers effortless playability, making it a favorite among guitarists who appreciate both comfort and versatility. Its simple control layout, featuring a single volume and tone knob, allows players to easily dial in their desired sound.

Whether you're strumming jazzy chords or shredding rock solos, the Rickenbacker 420 provides a responsive and dynamic playing experience. Its vintage-inspired design pays homage to its storied past while offering a sound that fits seamlessly into contemporary music.

Key Features:

  • Solid maple body and neck construction
  • Hi-Gain single-coil pickup for bright, clear tones
  • Slim neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Simple single volume and tone knob controls
  • Made in the USA, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship
  • Ideal for a variety of musical genres, from rock to jazz
Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Vintage/ Rickenbacker 420 Jetglo 【1976年製】@guitarshoptantan

Video thumbnail for Vintage/ Rickenbacker 420 Jetglo 【1976年製】@guitarshoptantan by Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Vintage/ Rickenbacker 420 Jetglo 【1976年製】@guitarshoptantan

Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker 420.

Value and pricing

  • Rare Rickenbacker 420 models often sit unsold due to high asking prices despite their vintage status.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Rickenbacker 420 is praised for its lightweight build and suitability for 60s psychedelic and jangle pop sounds.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the Rickenbacker 420 as one of the most playable guitars despite its rarity and vintage appeal.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Rickenbacker 620 is considered an upgraded version of the 420, yet some prefer the original 420 shape for its aesthetic.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jane Wiedlin uses Rickenbacker 420

Jane Wiedlin

Singer, Guitarist

The Go-Go's

...
Verified via Photo

Jane Wiedlin used the Rickenbacker 420 as her first guitar with the Go-Go's, and it was likely employed in recording their album Beauty and the Beat. According to the source "The Go-Go’s: 1980-1985" by youremyguitarhero, early photos of the band showcase the guitar in its original configuration. By their appearance in "Urgh! A Music War!" in 1980, Wiedlin had modified the guitar by adding a pair of P-90 pickups alongside the original toaster pickup.

S

Stan Cullimore

Guitarist

The Housemartins

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Verified via Muzines

"Stan's quite involved in money," Paul says of Stan Cullimore, rhythm guitar player, partial singer, and his co-writer. Stan does not retaliate. "I use a Sessionette 75, and a Rickenbacker 420 — we had a bit of an accident on the last night of the tour and that guitar got smashed, but I've got a new one. I also use a Strat as an occasional second guitar."

See how Jonny Woods uses Rickenbacker 420

Jonny Woods

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

"snaps of @wynonableach playing @belfastempire the other night. I’m sick as a dog now but it’s great to look back and see a healthy young man #gig #photography #livemusic #rickenbacker420"

On his official instagram Jonny tags "#Rickenbacker420" - (Although it looks more like the 425 George Harrison famously played - Jonny discusses this and clarifies the model number being correct in an instagram post with Chris Stein from Blondie and Paul Conolly from Fellow Northern Irish rockers "Wood Burning Savages", seen in the comments of this instagram post

Album Usage

The Rickenbacker 420 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.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rickenbacker 420, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Award-Session Sessionette 75
Award-Session Sessionette 75 Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
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