Rickenbacker 4003S MBL

The build quality of these new Rickenbackers have returned to their previous glory. After a brief slump in the beginning of 2010's the company really is back on track. Add to that the new 4003v2 tailpiece and you have a solid rock machine in your hands.

Now, finally, you can set up and intonate your Rick without resorting to replacing the bridge with 3rd party replacements. The newly designed bridge takes its cues from the robust Schaller bridges (as seen in the Laredo and Lemmy Kilmister basses for example) without losing the Ric aesthetics. Great job!

I was initially a bit hesitant to go with the Matte finish (I was aiming for JetGlo), but no regrets now as the neck feels super silky smooth to the touch. Coupled with the smooth edges of the "S" model, this bass is a joy to play.

What about the sound? Well you can't beat the Ric growl and bite. The hardwoods really bring out the mids and highs. This is the sound that overdrive loves. The high gain pickups are nice and crisp and you have the option to go vintage with a pull of a switch. Classic rock, pure and simple.

The price of a bass with these features is a bit on the high side to my tastes, but it is what it is. You either hate or love Rickenbacker, I love mine.

Dass man Sound nicht auf Fotos abbilden kann liegt auf der Hand.
Die schlichte Eleganz des Originals ist aber zudem wirklich überzeugend.
Der mattschwarz lackierte Bass mit seinen holzfarbenden Hals ohne viel "Schnick/Schnack" sind aber designpreisverdächtig.
Vor allem dann im Original und eben besser als auf den Fotos im Netz. Dies war für mich überraschend und ein Grund zur Freund, als ich den Koffer öffnete...