1976 Westminster RB500S Rickenbacker 4001 Style Bass Guitar (MIJ)

1976 Westminster RB500S Rickenbacker 4001 Style Bass Guitar (MIJ)

Up for grabs is a rare and absolutely stunning Westminster RB500S, built in 1976 at the renowned Matsumoku factory in Japan. This era of Japanese craftsmanship is known for producing high-quality instruments with excellent attention to detail, and this bass is no exception. Sporting an exceptionally unique green burst finish, bound rosewood board, and dual single coil layout, this RB500S stands out as both a player’s instrument and a collector’s piece. If you're looking for a unique take on a Rickenbacker bass, this should fit the bill.

The 3-piece maple/walnut/maple neck is solid, straight, and feels fantastic in the hands. It sports a comfortable medium “D” profile, 34" scale length, and a smooth high-gloss finish that allows for fast movement up and down the fretboard. The 10” radius and 43.5mm nut width make for an easy-playing neck that balances vintage feel with comfortable playability. The bound lacquered rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of class, and the 20 frets are in great shape with minimal wear at approximately 90% fret life.

Loaded with the original Westminster single coils in perfect working order, this bass has a unique and versatile voice. The neck pickup (7.5kOhms) delivers warm, rounded lows perfect for deep grooves, while the bridge pickup (7.8kOhms) brings in a tighter, mid-focused tone that’s great for cutting through a mix and can get very aggressive if needed. Whether used solo or blended, the pickups cover a wide tonal palette making this a truly expressive instrument with classic Japanese character.

In excellent condition for its vintage, the bass is free from any structural cracks, breaks or issues. The worst of the wear is a few chips and dings here and there and some light binding rot that appears to be stable and has not cracked or chipped away. Professionally setup with D'Addario 45-105s, this RB500S is playing like a beast with a straight neck, low action and accurate intonation. Comes with a leather gig bag!

Specifications:

Make: Westminster

Model: RB500S

Origin: Japan, Matsumoku, 1976

Body: Birch

Neck: Maple/Walnut/Maple 3-Piece Neck

Fingerboard: Bound Lacquered Rosewood

Pickups: Original Westminster Single Coils, Neck: 7.5kOhms, Middle: 3.8kOhms, Bridge: 7.8kOhms

Neck Profile: 34" Scale, Medium "D" Profile, High-Gloss Finish, 10" Fingerboard Radius, 43.5mm Nut Width (Black Plastic)

Frets: 20

Finish: Green Burst

Weight: 3.9kg

Shipping & Returns:

Domestic AU Shipping (Insured) - $Free

International Shipping (Insured) - $199.99

Local Pickup/Click & Collect - 135 New Canterbury Road, Lewisham 2049

The item is sold as is - if it is broken or damaged on arrival, we will offer you a return/refund. We cannot accept returns for change of mind or offer any warranty on used/vintage items.