Pricing and availability
Average Price: $2,000
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
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
Videos
Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)
Vintage/ Rickenbacker 420 Jetglo 【1976年製】@guitarshoptantan
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
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
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.
"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."
"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.
More Rickenbacker Solid Body Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
estu8Gear IQ 89
-