Ric advice, please...

[Zip]

So I have a chance to pick up a 1976 Autumnglo 4001 Ric for 12 bills. All original, seems really clean, OHSC. I don't know much about Rickenbackers or their values. Should I do it??

 

[NWBasser]

That's not a bad price for a vintage Ric.

For a bass that old, I'd look over the frets very carefully for wear and check the function of the truss rod(s).

Also, check the pickup output. The Ric pickups can age and lose output over the years (as do many others too).

And, it's only a good deal if you like the bass. Make sure you play it to see if it fits you.

 

[Bookkeeper's Son]

NW, how do pickups age and lose output?

 

[Eric]

NW, how do pickups age and lose output?

The magnets in pickups tend to weaken as they age. Some people like that effect in guitar pickups a lot, which is part of why vintage PAFs command such high prices.

 

[Bookkeeper's Son]

Magnet strength decay is yet another of those much-debated subjects, apparently. A couple of references I saw said that AlNiCo V magnets lose strength of about 1/2 of 1 percent (.50%) in 100 years. Doesn't sound like much.

 

[NWBasser]

Also, you can get oxidization of the copper wiring. As well as physical delamination of the copper coils over time.

I don't actually know what magnet material Rickenbacker uses. My statement is based on many anecdotal reports that I've read on bass player's forums.

 

[Zip]

Well, I got it. It's got great punch. Way different than a Fender, for sure. Both truss rods turn fine. Frets have very little wear. Pups are strong, good output. She's home

 

[Eric]

Cool! Congrats!

 

[NWBasser]

Well, I got it. It's got great punch. Way different than a Fender, for sure. Both truss rods turn fine. Frets have very little wear. Pups are strong, good output. She's home

Winner!

However, we will need to see pictures of this supposed bass...Rulz R Rulz ya know!

When you say it has more punch than a Fender, ah, which Fender?
Jazz, P, P/J??

 

[NWBasser]

Hey Zip, any pics yet?

I love the look of those rics.

 

[Zip]

I've got some great pics - on my phone, with no way to post them here. I'll get some kind of USB cord soon & post them. In the meantime, it looks like this one, but with the original black p/g. Cheesy, I know...but the color's the same ("autumnglo").