Rickenbacker celebrate 90 years in the business with new anniversary models
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11.02.2021

Rickenbacker celebrate 90 years in the business with new anniversary models

Words by Will Brewster

Return of the kings.

There’s no denying that Rickenbacker are synonymous with the development of rock ‘n roll as we know it today.

Whether it’s the jangly twelve-string tones of the 360/12 or the mid-range thud of the 4003 bass, their instruments have been favoured by some of the most iconic names in rock – think The Beatles, Lemmy, The Byrds, Rick James, the list goes on.

Now, they’re celebrating that legacy by producing a limited run of 90th Anniversary 480XC and 4005XC models.

Stay up to date with all the latest gear updates through our Product News section.

Rickenbacker 90th Anniversary Models

These new models see Rickenbacker flip the norm with two quirky creations that seem to take design cues from one each other. The 480XC guitar – based on the Model 480, which was last produced by the brand in 1984 – resembles the unique contours of the 4003 bass with its long top horn and solid body construction.

It features an eye-catching flame top, checkerboard binding and a dark Macassar ebony fretboard, while a pair of bitey Toaster pickups offers all the jangle you could ever ask for. This one’s up for grabs in either Tobacco Glo or JetGlo finishes, and comes bundled in a vintage reissue case to boot.

For four-string enthusiasts, the Rickenbacker 4005XC looks to be an essential addition to your collection, taking inspiration from the 300 guitar Series with its hollow construction and striking aesthetics.

With a 30.5″ scale length, pair of vintage toaster pickups and smattering of controls, there’s plenty of tones on tap with the 4005XC, with stereo outputs letting you explore a broad array of sonic possibilities. Like its six-string brethren, this bass features checkerboard binding, and comes in a vintage-style reissue case for safe-keeping.

 

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Find out more about the new 90th Anniversary models via Rickenbacker’s website.