Collection: Rickenbacker Bass Guitars
Rickenbacker Bass Guitars
Iconic growl, piano-like attack, and unmistakable style—shop new, used & vintage Rickenbacker bass at Chicago Music Exchange
If you’re searching for a Rickenbacker bass for sale, you’re after a sound that changed rock: tight lows, cutting mids, brilliant definition, and the signature “clank” that sits perfectly in a mix. From the classic Rickenbacker 4001 and modern Rickenbacker 4003 to streamlined 4003S, walnut-bodied 4003W, and limited artist runs, Chicago Music Exchange curates one of the best selections of new, used, and vintage Rickenbacker bass guitars—each inspected, photographed, weighed, and set up by our techs.
Why Players Choose Rickenbacker Bass?
- Signature voice: Fast transient attack, piano-string clarity, and authoritative midrange that cuts through dense guitars and keys.
- Neck-through sustain: Maple (often with walnut) neck-through construction couples the instrument from headstock to tailpiece for remarkable resonance and stability.
- Distinct electronics: Vintage toaster/horseshoe heritage evolving into modern Hi-Gain pickups, plus the famous Ric-O-Sound stereo output on select models for dual-amp routing.
- Playability & presence: Slim nut widths, bound bodies (on many models), and classic triangle inlays deliver unmistakable Rickenbacker bass aesthetics on stage.
Most Popular Rickenbacker Bass Models (and what they do)
- 4003: The modern flagship. Hi-Gain pickups, vintage-style bridge with built-in mute, optional Ric-O-Sound stereo jack on many versions. Punchy, bright, and versatile from pick rock to progressive.
- 4003S: Unbound body with dot inlays and contoured edges for a sleeker, more comfortable feel—same core tone, slightly simpler trim.
- 4003W / 4003SW: Walnut body wings paired with maple neck-through—adds a touch of warmth and a striking natural look.
- 4001 (vintage): ’60s–’80s classic with earlier spec details (including period toaster/horseshoe on some, checkerboard binding on select ’70s). Highly collectible with that glassy, articulate heritage tone.
- 4003S/5 (5-string): Expands the classic Ric timbre into extended-range territory.
- Limited/Sig runs (varies by year): Short-run finishes and artist models (e.g., 4003AC Al Cisneros) for unique voices and aesthetics.
Use cases:
- Pick rock / prog / power pop: 4003 for presence and growl.
- Comfortable tracking & live comfort: 4003S for sleek edges and easy long sets.
- Visual statement & warmer nuance: 4003W walnut variants.
- Collector tones / classic records: 4001 vintage specs.
Artists & Famous Recordings (why this sound is iconic)
The Rickenbacker bass is stamped across rock history: Chris Squire (Yes) for articulate prog definition, Geddy Lee (Rush) for aggressive clarity, Paul McCartney (late Beatles/Wings) with melodic punch on a 4001S, Lemmy Kilmister (Motörhead) for overdriven grind, Cliff Burton (Metallica) in early live eras, Peter Hook (Joy Division/New Order) for chorus-kissed upper-register lines, Bruce Foxton (The Jam), John Entwistle (The Who) in select periods, Mani (The Stone Roses)—and many more. If you recognize the mid-forward chime that stays present when guitars get loud, it’s probably a Rickenbacker 4001/4003.
Specs That Shape the Rickenbacker Bass Sound
- Construction: Neck-through maple (often with walnut “skunk stripe”), maple body wings or walnut (4003W), delivering sustain and rigidity.
- Scale length: ~33 1/4"—the classic Ric feel: taut yet slightly shorter than common 34", contributing to that quick, authoritative attack.
- Electronics: 3-way toggle, independent volume/tone; select models feature Ric-O-Sound for stereo/bi-amp rigs.
- Hardware: Vintage-style bridge/tailpiece with mute assembly; pickup cover on many 4003 models (removable).
Pickups:
- Vintage Toaster/Horseshoe (historical/vintage) = airy highs and glassy clarity.
- Modern Hi-Gain = higher output, tighter lows, assertive mids.
Year & Era Notes (what buyers ask)
- 1960s–early ’70s 4001: Lighter builds, toaster/horseshoe combos on some, slim necks, checkerboard binding on certain mid-’70s examples—very collectible.
- Late ’70s–’80s: Hi-Gain pickups become common; hardware/cosmetic shifts; many classic finishes.
- Modern 4003 family: Improved consistency, build precision, and finish quality while retaining the unmistakable Rickenbacker bass voice.
- Reissues & short runs: Periodic vintage-spec touches and unique colors—watch CME listings for details.
Why Rickenbacker Built These Basses (and why they still matter)
Rickenbacker—one of the earliest innovators in electric instruments—extended its design philosophy to bass: neck-through sustain, bright maple articulation, and unique pickups/electronics that let bass lines speak with piano-like clarity. In band mixes where guitars dominate, a Rickenbacker 4001/4003 remains the easiest way to be heard, not just felt.
Price Ranges (plan your buy)
- New Rickenbacker 4003/4003S/4003W: typically $1,999–$2,5xx+ depending on finish/features.
- Used Rickenbacker bass: save while staying close to new spec; condition and finish affect price.
- Vintage Rickenbacker 4001/4001S: pricing varies widely by year, originality, finish, and binding/inlay details; clean ’60s/’70s pieces command premiums.
Quick Chooser (match your use case)
- Recording clarity & pick articulation: 4003 with Hi-Gains.
- Comfort & classic tone, less bling: 4003S.
- Organic look with a touch of warmth: 4003W walnut.
- Collectible classic: 4001 (vintage) with era-correct specs.
- Need low B: 4003S/5.
Why Buy from Chicago Music Exchange
Chicago Music Exchange is the #1 destination for vintage, used, and boutique bass guitars. Trusted by touring artists, collectors, and enthusiasts worldwide.
- Curated Rickenbacker bass inventory with pro setups and exact weights
- Transparent listings with high-res photos and in-hand notes
- Trade-in & financing options; fast, insured shipping
- A bass-savvy team that understands Ric-O-Sound, vintage vs modern Hi-Gain, setup for pick vs fingers, and historical details
Rickenbacker Bass FAQ
What are the most popular Rickenbacker bass models?
Top searches include Rickenbacker 4003, 4003S, 4003W, and vintage Rickenbacker 4001/4001S.
4001 vs 4003—what’s the difference?
4001 (vintage) reflects earlier construction/pickup specs and collectible features; 4003 (modern) offers updated build consistency, hardware, and Hi-Gain voicing while retaining the classic Ric character.
What is Ric-O-Sound?
A stereo output (on select models) that splits pickups to separate amps/paths for bi-amping—great for blending clean lows and overdriven mids.
Are Rickenbacker basses good for fingerstyle or pick?
Yes. The fast attack rewards both techniques. Many players remove the bridge pickup cover for easier right-hand access—CME can help set this up.
Do modern Rickenbacker basses sound like the classics?
Modern 4003 basses preserve the defining maple/neck-through clarity and mid punch. For maximum vintage chime, explore specific pickup voicings or vintage 4001 models.
How much does a Rickenbacker bass cost?
Expect roughly $2k–$2.5k+ new, less for used Rickenbacker bass depending on condition, and more for vintage 4001 in rare finishes or clean original spec.
Do you set up basses before shipping?
Absolutely. Every CME bass receives a professional inspection and setup; we list the exact weight and detailed photos of the bass you’ll receive.
Rickenbacker
Rickenbacker guitars are synonymous with distinctive sound and timeless style, celebrated by generations of rock, pop, and indie musicians. Known for their jangle-rich chime, punchy midrange, and unmistakable tone, Rickenbacker electrics and basses have shaped the sound of bands from The Beatles and The Byrds to modern indie trailblazers. Each instrument blends innovative design with meticulous craftsmanship, offering both visual flair and stage-ready performance.
At Chicago Music Exchange, our Rickenbacker collection features a curated selection of guitars and basses, including classic 300-series, 4000-series basses, and limited editions. Crafted with premium tonewoods, custom pickups, and signature Rickenbacker hardware, these instruments deliver unmatched clarity, sustain, and playability. Whether you’re chasing vintage chime, bright rhythm tones, or fat, driving bass lines, a Rickenbacker provides a unique voice that stands out in any mix.
Rickenbacker guitars are as much a statement of style as they are a musical instrument. From sleek semi-hollow bodies to iconic solid-body designs, each guitar is engineered for comfort, balance, and responsiveness. Perfect for collectors, performers, and recording artists alike, these instruments maintain the brand’s reputation for innovation and reliability.
Rickenbacker Guitars
Few instruments carry the unmistakable identity and legacy of a Rickenbacker. From the shimmering jangle of a 12-string electric to the growling punch of a 4003 bass, Rickenbacker guitars have helped define the sound of rock and roll for over half a century. Played by legends like George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Tom Petty, and Peter Buck, these instruments are more than tools—they’re icons of sound, style, and history.
Every Rickenbacker is crafted in Santa Ana, California, where the company continues to uphold its legacy of American-made excellence. Known for their unmistakable shapes, bound bodies, and distinctive “R” tailpieces, Rickenbackers are as much a visual statement as a sonic one. Their unique construction—maple neck-through designs, dual truss rods, and high-gain or toaster-style pickups—creates a bright, chiming tone that slices through a mix with clarity and character.
Whether it’s the crisp articulation of a 330 or 360 guitar or the warm, percussive low end of a 4003 bass, every Rickenbacker model carries a singular voice that remains instantly recognizable. These instruments don’t just echo the past—they continue to inspire modern players seeking something timeless yet original.
In this collection, you’ll find the full range of Rickenbacker’s current offerings, from their classic semi-hollow electrics and stunning 12-strings to their world-renowned basses. Each one represents decades of innovation, tradition, and craftsmanship—all built with the same care and attention to detail that’s made Rickenbacker a cornerstone of popular music.