(SOLD) Rickenbacker 330 Midnight Blue 1997
Ric 330, rare midnight blue finish with black hardware, made in USA 1997. The Ric 330 has surely got to be one of the best looking shapes going around. It's got that instant swagger thing; there's an awesome 60s-chic to the big body, 'R' tailpiece, fin shape hole and smooth curves. The midnight blue finish is a fun departure from the standard black/sunburst/natural options; apparently they used a silver metallic undercoat to make the dark blue 'pop' with a healthy dose of sheen and vibrancy. The black hardware also adds a certain intrigue to the aesthetic; this is absolutely guaranteed to turn heads on stage. These 90s era Rics were very well made, so this feels super sturdy and reassuring in the hands. The neck has the signature hard-D profile: not super wide at the nut, fairly square around the edges of the board, comfy and round in the middle. It feels awesome... super slick to move around on, arrow straight and a great strumming companion. The Hi-Gain pickups are a hot single coil, so there'a a bit of that P-90-esque growl and sizzle on offer to balance the signature Ric chiming treble. It's a great guitar clean, but with a little dose of drive, it really comes to life and howls like an overexcited wolf at the full moon. Basically, you'll be better off with it in your life, no?
Model: Rickenbacker 330
Made: 1997, USA (serial R07197)
Finish: midnight blue
Body: laminate maple, semi hollow
Neck: 3-ply maple/walnut/maple, 24.75" scale, 10" radius
Weight: 3.435kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Rickenbacker Hi Gain single coils
Case: non-original new 335-style case, reasonable fit, excellent condition and good quality
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has a couple of light scuffs on the end, some light scuffs on the front and some dimples on the back. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, just a few minor dimples on the back. The back has some widespread minor surface scratches and scuffs but no major marks, The sides have a few marks: scuffs on the top horn, a couple of minor chips and some dimples on the shoulder, scuffs near the jack. The front is pretty tidy, just a ding near the tailpiece, some dimples near the knobs and on the shoulder and some play wear on the guard and both horns. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10).
Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, intonation is good, action is low, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have some minor wear, no major buzz issues 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 10/46s Moonshiners strings.