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Rickenbacker RM1999

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Page last updated Jan 19, 2026

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Description

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The Rickenbacker RM1999 is a staple in the arsenal of bassists seeking classic tones combined with modern playability. Known for its distinctive sound and iconic design, this electric bass guitar offers a dual single-coil pickup configuration, which delivers a wide range of tonal possibilities—from punchy mids to deep, resonant lows. The RM1999's construction features Rickenbacker's renowned craftsmanship, ensuring exceptional durability and performance for both studio sessions and live performances.

Crafted with a sleek body and a fast-playing neck, this bass is designed to accommodate a variety of playing styles, making it a versatile choice for musicians across genres. The set neck construction enhances sustain and resonance, while the bound rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface. With its classic aesthetic appeal, it doesn’t just sound great; it looks the part on stage too.

For musicians who value both performance and heritage, the Rickenbacker RM1999 stands out as a choice instrument. Its unique blend of vintage charm and modern precision makes it a beloved model among professional and aspiring bassists alike.

Key Features:

Dual single-coil pickup configuration for versatile tonal options
Set neck construction for enhanced sustain
Bound rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
Iconic Rickenbacker design with classic aesthetic appeal
Preferred by professional musicians for both studio and live settings

Videos

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MarkWalkerMusic

messing around on a '64 RM 1999 / Rickenbacker 4001S

MarkWalkerMusic

Rickenbacker RM1999 4001 bass

TheEmac70

MARK WALKER - 4001 RM1999 1964 AUDIO TEST

rockerian

1964 Rickenbacker RM 1999

PinkbassmanMusic

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rickenbacker RM1999.

Mods and upgrades

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Vintage-style toaster pickups can be moved 0.5" closer to the neck with a dremel modification of the pickup cavity.
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To achieve a vintage look, a vintage-spec pickguard from Pickguardian can be installed alongside old-style knobs.
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A cost-effective way to achieve a vintage look involves modifying pole pieces on higain pickups, although older models may need extra care as pole pieces are glued.
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Adjusting the pole pieces can refine the sound, although they are reportedly difficult to turn, suggesting the design discourages frequent adjustments.
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One owner successfully relocated the neck pickup and adjusted screw locations, knobs, and switches for better alignment and functionality.
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Features and functionality

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Toaster pickups are noted for their alnico construction, contrasting with stock ceramic pickups, enhancing the build quality and aesthetic.
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Some users note that pickups on late 90s V63 models are similar in design to post-1973 pickups but feature vintage covers.
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The neck pickup on Rickenbacker RM1999 models is technically adjustable, but it doesn't rise as much as the bridge pickup, limiting height adjustments.
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It's noted that adjustable neck pickup heights would be a desirable feature, as current limitations restrict tonal customization for some players.
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User experience

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Users express concern over the minimal tonal difference between vintage-style pickups and stock versions, attributing sound variation more to amp settings, player technique, and strings.
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One user with a '92 4003S noted that it had a notably larger upper horn, a trait common in 80s/90s models.
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Comparisons

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The neck on mid-90s 4003s models is noted for being slimmer, akin to a jazz bass, compared to other Rickenbacker models.
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Mid-90s 4003s models are often compared to the 4001V63, particularly for their vintage-style hardware and smaller upper horn.
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Value and pricing

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4001V63 models from the mid-90s are highly valued, often fetching over $4,000 and considered more valuable than the 4003s.
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Setup and maintenance

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Some owners lower the bridge pickup to balance sound when the neck pickup can't be raised enough, achieving a tone reminiscent of semi-hollow basses.
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Artist usage

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Chris Squire

Singer, Bassist

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Verified via Rickenbacker

The Rickenbacker RM1999 was the British Import equivalent to the 4001 with notable differences being the lack of binding, and dot inlays instead of the triangle inlays. The RM, like with other 60s British Import Rickenbackers, stands for Rose Morris.