The Most Popular Rickenbacker Guitar, Ranked

Choose the guitar you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jun 2, 2024 07:08
For guitar enthusiasts and newcomers alike, choosing the right instrument can be a critical decision that significantly influences their musical journey. Rickenbacker guitars, known for their distinct sound and quality, have been a popular choice among musicians. Having a ranked list of the most favored Rickenbacker guitars aids in highlighting the models that resonate best with players, based on a variety of factors including playability, tone, and aesthetics. This dynamic ranking is constantly updated and shaped by your input. Every vote helps fine-tune the order, reflecting current trends and preferences within the community. By participating, not only do you get to see where your favorite Rickenbacker stands, but you also contribute to a broader musical dialogue, assisting fellow enthusiasts in making informed choices.

What Is the Most Popular Rickenbacker Guitar?

  1. 1
    84
    votes

    Rickenbacker 360/12

    The twelve-string version of the 360 model, known for its rich, jangling sound that defined the folk-rock sound of the 1960s.
    • Body Type: Semi-Hollow
    • Famous Users: George Harrison, Roger McGuinn
  2. 2
    43
    votes

    Rickenbacker 330

    A slightly more affordable option than the 360, the 330 offers a similar sound and build quality with some differences in body style.
    • Body Type: Semi-Hollow
    • Famous Users: Peter Buck, Tom Petty
  3. 3
    27
    votes

    Rickenbacker 4003

    The successor to the 4001, offering improved truss rod system and a more versatile tonal range.
    • Body Type: Solid
    • Famous Users: Lemmy Kilmister, Paul McCartney
  4. 4
    21
    votes

    Rickenbacker 325

    A short-scale guitar that gained fame thanks to John Lennon during the early Beatles years.
    • Body Type: Solid
    • Famous Users: John Lennon
  5. 5
    16
    votes

    Rickenbacker 620

    Features a solid body design with the distinctive Rickenbacker look and sound, suitable for various music genres.
    • Body Type: Solid
    • Notable Features: Cresting wave body shape
  6. 6
    7
    votes

    Rickenbacker 4001

    This iconic bass guitar has been a favorite among bassists for its rich tone and comfortable playability, famously used by Geddy Lee and Chris Squire.
    • Body Type: Solid
    • Famous Users: Geddy Lee, Chris Squire
  7. 7
    7
    votes

    Rickenbacker 381V69

    A luxury model known for its carved top and back, offering exceptional beauty and sound.
    • Body Type: Semi-Hollow
    • Notable Features: Carved archtop
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Rickenbacker 360

    This semi-hollow body guitar is known for its distinctive jangle and chime, popularized by bands like The Beatles and The Byrds.
    • Body Type: Semi-Hollow
    • Famous Users: George Harrison, Roger McGuinn
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Rickenbacker 1993 Plus

    A reissue of the vintage 1993 model, this guitar combines classic Rickenbacker tones with modern playability.
    • Body Type: Semi-Hollow
    • Notable Features: Vintage reissue
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Rickenbacker 4004

    A modern bass guitar that combines traditional Rickenbacker aesthetics with contemporary features.
    • Body Type: Solid
    • Notable Features: Sleek, modern design

Missing your favorite guitar?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Rickenbacker guitar. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Guitar is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3107 views
  • 205 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Guitar once every 24 hours. The rank of each Guitar is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Categories

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Rickenbacker Guitar

Rickenbacker 360/12
Rank #1 for the most popular Rickenbacker guitar: Rickenbacker 360/12 (Source)
Rickenbacker guitars have a long history. They began in the 1930s. These guitars stood out due to their unique sound. Early on, they were linked with rock and roll. Many famous bands and musicians used them. This helped boost their popularity.

In the 1950s, Rickenbacker started to gain more attention. The company focused on electric guitars. This was a smart move. Electric guitars were becoming more popular. Rickenbacker guitars had a distinct tone. This made them a favorite among many artists.

During the 1960s, Rickenbacker guitars became even more popular. This was a key decade for rock music. Many bands from this era used these guitars. Their bright, jangly sound fit well with the music of the time. This sound became a hallmark of many hit songs. The guitars were also known for their quality. They were reliable and well-made.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Rickenbacker continued to thrive. They kept their classic designs. They did not change much. This consistency helped maintain their loyal fan base. Many musicians still preferred their sound. They were seen as a symbol of rock music.

Rickenbacker guitars are known for their craftsmanship. They use high-quality materials. Each guitar is carefully made. This attention to detail is part of their appeal. Musicians appreciate the effort that goes into each instrument. This is why many still choose Rickenbacker today.

The design of these guitars is also notable. They have a distinctive look. This sets them apart from other brands. The shape and style are iconic. Many people can recognize a Rickenbacker guitar at a glance. This visual appeal adds to their charm.

Rickenbacker guitars are versatile. They can be used in many types of music. While they are often linked with rock, they work well in other genres too. This versatility makes them a good choice for many musicians. They can adapt to different playing styles.

The sound of a Rickenbacker guitar is unique. It is bright and clear. This makes it stand out in a mix. The tone is often described as "jangly." This characteristic sound is part of what makes these guitars special. It has been a key part of many famous recordings.

Rickenbacker has a strong legacy. They have been around for many decades. They have a rich history in music. Many famous songs feature their guitars. This legacy continues to grow. New generations of musicians discover and use these instruments.

The popularity of Rickenbacker guitars shows no signs of fading. They remain a top choice for many artists. Their unique sound and quality craftsmanship keep them in demand. They are a staple in the world of music. Many musicians dream of owning one.

Rickenbacker guitars have earned their place in music history. Their distinct sound, quality, and design make them special. They continue to be a favorite among musicians. Their legacy lives on through the music they help create.

Share this article