This Item is in Very Good Condition. There are the normal signs of use and wear that you would expect to see on a 68 year old guitar, but all of the "blemishes" are more of a complement to its vintage vibe appeal and broken in feel, than a detriment to its value and playability. All original parts / finish / electronics. Includes a 60s rectangular Gibson case with orange interior.
Behold, one of the rarest Rickenbacker models from their long and storied history. The Combo 400 was introduced in 1956 and discontinued only two years later in 1958. This particular one is from early 1957, as verified by its serial number and the fact that they began to use two switches on this model in late 1957. This model is also historically notable because it was the first of the tulip shaped guitars and the first neck through body guitar made by Rickenbacker. Featuring a gold anodized aluminum pickguard and truss rod cover, DeArmond pickup, and Brazilian Rosewood fretboard, this guitar is a uniquely classic piece of music history.
In addition to its collectability, this guitar is also everything you would expect from an everyday player. It is original, fully functional and plays and sounds great. It is currently set up with relatively low action (.075" low E / .070" high E - both at 12th fret) without any dead spots or excessive buzzing, even on big bends. Since everything is functioning correctly, it is capable of being setup differently, with higher or lower string height to accommodate your personal preference and playing style. The original DeArmond single coil pickup in the neck position delivers the sweet tones you would expect and is surprisingly versatile as it is paired with the original "tone boost" switch and 1 meg tone pot, ranging from dark & mellow to warm & jazzy to bright & chimey tones that cut through the mix when needed; and everything in between.
Overall, this guitar is one of the coolest, rarest, and most inspiring instruments we have had the pleasure of playing here at Small Box Music. The only downside we can find to this package is the fact that it does not include its original case. But the 60's Gibson case that is included is quite the consolation prize, as these cases can easily fetch over $500 on their own. Perhaps you can find someone with a '57 Ric case to swap with. Seems like a fair deal. You might even make a few bucks on the trade.
