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Vintage 1979 Rickenbacker 4001 Mapleglo Bass with original hardshell case - NR!

Estimated price for orientation: 1 420 $

Category: Rickenbacker 4001 Electric Bass
Class:











Description
Condition: Used: An item that has been used previously. The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully operational and functions as intended. This item may be a floor model or store return that has been used. See the seller’s listing for full details and description of any imperfections. See all condition definitions- opens in a new window or tab ... Read moreabout the condition Brand: Rickenbacker
Dexterity: Right-Handed String Configuration: 4 String
Type: Electric Bass Model: 4001
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States Body Type: Solid


I'm selling it because I have 18 guitars and basses; my wife, kids and I recently moved into a much smaller house, and my engineering job puts me on the road 50% of the time. So because my gigging days are on hold (hopefully only temporarily), it's time to start thinning out the herd (the guitar cases of the rest of the herd can be seen in the background). 
It's old and has a few dings (like its current owner) but still has plenty of life in it (also like the current owner). It plays, feels and sounds great, and is always an instant conversation starter. It has some finish wear on it, as you'd expect from an instrument this age. None are structural; all are purely cosmetic. I've photographed them as accurately as possible. The dark marks on the back of the neck are simply discolorations that can't be felt when playing, and are not dents or scratches. There are two worn blotches visible on the back of the body, each a bit bigger than a quarter.PLEASE NOTE: In the photo of the body's back, the guitar stand casts a shadow on on the lower right of the body. It is similar in color to the two worn spots of the body's back, but it is just a shadow - NOT a blemish. A past owner had relocated one of the strap holders, so there's a very small hole on the lower body where the the old strap holder used to be.I have not added any dings or scratches since I've owned it, as it's been primarily a studio instrument. It has been meticulously stored in its case in a temperature- and humidity-controlled, smoke-free, pet-free studio (what else would you expect from an anal-retentive engineer). This is a player instrument made for players. And it plays and sounds GREAT.
I purchased this bass from the very reputable Action Guitar in Falls Church, VA in 2011 for $1,550. Although it didn't come with the original case candy, I will include the sales tags and receipt from when I purchased it. According to the paperwork, the pick guard, tuners, bridge and pickups were replaced - which is why I got a good deal on it five years ago, and which is why I'm starting the bid off at $500 - $1,500 less than other comparable instruments currently listed on eBay. But because of these upgrades made by a previous owner, the bass has decades of performance life still in it. In other words, it'll cost less than a 100% original 1979 4001, but most likely plays better. The body, neck, truss rod cover and jack plate are all original. I have not made any changes to it other than changing the strings. I removed the cover of the bridge pickups to suit my playing style, but it's included and is visible on and next to the open case in two of the photos.The original hardshell case is included. The case has a bit of wear and tear on it and some stickers from previous owners. As they add a bit of character, I've left the stickers on.