GAS pains: Ric 4003SW or USA Geddy Jazz?

[jamro217]

Don't throw me under the bus for this, but have you thought of adding something different to your collection? You already have three of one style and two of the other. There are other basses that would round out your tonal palette better than adding more of the same to the current roster. Sting Rays, Gibsons, fretless basses, the list is endless. Given the stated options, you only have two Jazz basses, and the consensus is that the Geddy is somehow different than the ones you own. The Ric is a different model than what you already have and has the push/pull option. Flip a coin. Hope this helps.

 

[GMC]

I take the view that if you are torn between two things....then you really want both and can't choose which one to get first

 

[armybass]

The Ric is certainly gonna be more of a find in my opinion but the US Geddy is a monster player... HOWEVER..... you already have the mighty 74 AVRI..... get the Ric hands down.

 

[tbz]

I'd get something with active pickups...that seems to be the "gap" in your collection now.

 

[Bigbri]

I have the chance to get either a Rickenbacker 4003SW or a USA Fender Geddy Lee Jazz for a good price. I think both are beautiful instruments and I like the features of both, but I've never seen one in the flesh.
Here's my conundrum: I already own Rics and Jazzes, including a 4001, a 4003 and an older 4003S (none has the push-pull pot), and a 2012 AmStd Jazz and a '74 AVRI.
Which (if either) of these basses would add the most in terms of tones I don't already have covered? I assume the Ric would hold its value better should I ever sell it? Which of these basses would be most different from the Rics and Js I already own in terms of tone, weight and playability? Or should I just hang onto my dough and eat carrots?
Any and all opinions on both or either bass would be appreciated.
BTW, I play soul, blues and '60s-'70s pop and rock.

Why get more of the same. Hang onto your dough and look for a good pre-cbs jazz bass with a matching headstock. If anything, it's an investment. Otherwise an American Spector, Stingray or Sabre.

 

[plav1959]

 

[west al]

The USA Geddy Lee Jazz. I've had Rics before, and always go back to a Fender Jazz. I just think the Fenders are a smoother playing bass, with a tone I prefer.

 

[west al]

As counterpoint, I have had several Jazz Basses over the years, mostly late '60s to early '70s models and I have always gone back my Ricks. Primarily due to the necks being too skinny (they sounded fine, just like a Jazz Bass does). But of course, this is all personal preference; I used to think I preferred Jazz Bass necks but not these days; having a slightly thicker neck prevents hand cramps, for one thing (could be an age related thing, possibly).

My Stingray has a great feeling neck, too.

For my age, I find the thinner Jazz is quicker, with less effort. What ever feels right for ya'.

 

[Pet Sounds]

I want to thank all of you for the input. I've just about decided to jump on the 4003sw now and go for a Geddy down the road a little. I think I can swing this by selling a couple of instruments.
I appreciate the input, and I'll post a NBD when I get it sorted.

 

[west al]

Wait till you get to my age........................

59?

 

[west al]

Something like that.

64 Here.

 

[west al]

Man, you're old.

Something to comfort you in your advanced years:

I never thought I'd make it past 20.

 

[Pet Sounds]

In case anybody is interested in the least, I ended up solving my "problem" by getting the 4003s AND a Flea Jazz Bass! I just received the Ric and so far am really digging it. The Flea is also very sweet! I still haven't ruled out a USA Geddy somewhere down the line. Thanks again for all the input.

 

[Bigbri]

In case anybody is interested in the least, I ended up solving my "problem" by getting the 4003s AND a Flea Jazz Bass! I just received the Ric and so far am really digging it. The Flea is also very sweet! I still haven't ruled out a USA Geddy somewhere down the line. Thanks again for all the input.

What I do you think of the flea Jazz bass? I believe it's mexican and I haven't played one I didn't like. If he hasn't modified it, then it's really a Shell Pink RI?

 

[Boristhespyder]

Does the 4003sw have the push-pull? A cursory Google search didn't give me an answer.

Still tough to say, push-pull gives you 4001 and 4003 without switching basses. Given your current armada this would be the biggest difference when playing live. If you don't switch playing live I only see aesthetics here.

Unless you get into the whole "wood sounds different" thing which I can't hear.

The geddy sig looks like a nice bass but I don't see it adding to your inventory tonally.

Mine has the vintage push pull knob.

 

[Deleted member 264575]

You should get whatever bass you like Rickenbacker. Don't let others Rickenbacker influence you. Trust your Rickenbacker gut. Rickenbacker .

 

[Pet Sounds]

Neal, I got the (Rickenbacker)! AND a Flea Jazz! Both of them are very nice instruments.
I'm very happy with the Ric, except I got an "open box" model from MF that was advertised and priced as mint, but arrived with a variety of nicks and blemishes. Am hoping MF will give me a partial refund.

 

[Deleted member 264575]

Neal, I got the (Rickenbacker)! AND a Flea Jazz! Both of them are very nice instruments.
I'm very happy with the Ric, except I got an "open box" model from MF that was advertised and priced as mint, but arrived with a variety of nicks and blemishes. Am hoping MF will give me a partial refund.

Ahh, I missed that post (because there were no PICS!...please) Doesn't the Flea Jazz come with pre-installed nicks and blemishes?

My Ric has a nick, or 2. Makes 'em sound better.



Although, my new one is perfect (and hopefully will stay that way).



Congrats! Well played.

 

[Pet Sounds]

Yeah, the Flea nicks come free of charge!