Rickenbacker 4003 4-String Bass Fireglo
The Model 4003 bass is the updated version of the famous 4001 that began turning heads in the 1960s with its distinctive sound and looks. From the British Invasion forward, the “Ric bass” has been seen and heard on countless records and concert stages.
Rickenbacker was one of the first companies to feature true neck-through-body construction. The maple double-bound neck runs the length of the body. The rosewood fingerboard has triangular pearloid inlay markers and a comfortable 1 11/16” nut width. The scale is 33 1/4".
The 1 1/4"-deep maple body is bound on the front edge but relieved on the back for added comfort. The two high-gain, single-coil pickups are routed through a 3-way selector switch, 2 volume and 2 tone controls and standard mono and stereo (Rick-O-Sound) outputs. It’s equally easy to get a thick, fundamental thump or wiry, aggressive high end—or a blend of both. A redesigned bridge/tailpiece offers better intonation than previous models. A molded, hardshell case is included.
Features
- Body Type: Solid
- Body Wood: Maple
- Neck: Maple, thru-body
- Fingerboard: Rosewood w/ triangle markers
- Frets: 20
- Scale: 33 1/4"
- Nut width: 1 11/16”
- Radius: 10”
- Body Binding: Yes
- Neck binding: Yes
- Tailpiece / Bridge: RIC Tailpiece and Bridge
- Pickups: 2 high-gain single coil
- Controls: 2 Volume / 2 Tone / 3-position selector
- Tuners: Schaller Deluxe
Why We Like Rickenbacker Basses
Rickenbacker basses have always had their own identity: an unmistakable shape with distinctive finishes, inlays and binding. The sound is unique, too. The medium-wide, flat neck is easy to play with fingers or pick. Even though there are a lot of basses out there, most are derivatives of a certain famous brand. But the Ric bass is still its own thing. And we think it’s a very good thing. Also worth noting: Every Rickenbacker instrument is still made in the company’s California factory, just like every one has always been.