The first Rickenbacker bass introduced, was the 4000 model, in 1957. It had “through-neck” construction (as modern Rickenbacker basses still do today), one “horseshoe” pickup, one volume & one tone control and a large gold back painted pickguard and TRC. Early examples had mahogany necks, then walnut, before they settled on maple, with the distinctive walnut headstock “wings”.

In late 1961 Rickenbacker added a toaster pickup in the neck position and the classic 4001 bass was born. The design gradually morphed through the late 50’s and early 60’s, into what we would recognise as the “modern” Rickenbacker bass by 1963.

The semi-acoustic model 4005, was introduced in 1965. It followed the styling of the “round-top” 360 guitar. It had deluxe features; fullwidth “crushed pearl” inlays, checkered body binding and came equipped with two “toaster” pickups. Rickenbacker also offered a double bound version. The fretboard inlays were narrowed in about 1973. The 4005 model was discontinued in 1984.

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