The Iconic Rickenbacker Bass
"Roundabout." The sound of that legendary Yes bass line is seared into the auditory memory of many of the musicians here at Sweetwater: an early-1960s Rickenbacker strung with roundwounds and played with a heavy-gauge nylon pick. With their punchy treble, solid bottom end, and ringing sustain, Rickenbacker basses helped forge the sound of classic rock in the capable hands of progressive bassists such as Chris Squire, Paul McCartney, and Geddy Lee. It’s an iconic sound, and there’s only one way to get it. Today’s formidable Rickenbacker 4003 delivers those inimitable bass tones in a sleek instrument that’s primed for a new millennium.
Related Videos: 4003 Mono Bass Guitar - Autumnglo with Checkerboard Binding
All-maple construction for epic sustain and treble punch
The Rickenbacker 4003 is crafted from high-grade maple. Maple is very stable, aiding in maintaining the structural integrity of the neck, which runs through the entire length of the body. The density of maple — and the neck-through design — is largely responsible for the instrument’s famous bite, growl, and piano-like sustain. The thick rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth and harmonic complexity, balancing out the bright high end with powerful, rich bass.
Forge your own legendary bass sound
The 4003’s unique body shape and iconic Checkerboard binding give it the traditional, one-of-a-kind Rickenbacker bass look and comfortable balance, whether you’re playing seated or standing. Its potent sonic elixir is delivered via two Rickenbacker single-coil pickups. The 4003’s unrivaled tone and design give you an electric bass that's perfect for both stage and studio. Forge your own legendary sound with the Rickenbacker 4003 bass.
Rickenbacker 4003 4-string Bass Guitar Features:
- The iconic Rick bass, immortalized by Chris Squire, Paul McCartney, and Geddy Lee
- Maple body and through-neck, for serious sustain and treble zing
- Checkerboard binding adds a unique touch of elegance
- Thick rosewood fingerboard adds warmth and harmonic richness
- 2 Rickenbacker single-coil pickups
- 3-way selector with 2 tone and 2 volume controls
- Schaller Deluxe tuners are stage rugged and studio dependable
- Strap buttons are compatible with Schaller S-Locks
