Just like any other fandom, Rickenbacker fans and collectors have developed a language all their own. If you’re new to the game, it won’t take long before you run into mysterious abbreviations, factory terminology, collector jargon, and nicknames that everyone else seems to understand.
So let’s translate.
Below you’ll find most of the terms and abbreviations you’re likely to encounter in the Rickenbacker world, along with a brief explanation of what the hell everybody is talking about. And where there’s more to the story—and there frequently is—I’ve included a link to the full article.
Let’s go.
1 o’clock/2 o’clock F-Hole
A shorthand used to describe the orientation of an f-hole, with a 1 o’clock f-hole being more vertical than a 2 o’clock f-hole. Imagine the f-hole as the hour hand of a clock: whichever number it points toward determines its designation. Click HERE to learn more about f-hole orientation.
6/12 Converter
Produced from 1966 to 1968, a lever on the face of the guitar slid a “comb” under the strings that engaged, pulled down, and muted the octave strings, allowing a 12-string to function as a 6-string. Of limited utility, it did not last long. Models equipped with the converter ended in -6, and the 450/12 (456/12), 330/12 (336/12), and 360/12 (366/12) were all offered in this form. Click HERE to learn more about the 6/12 “convertible guitars”.
12k Toasters
Reissue toaster pickups made from around 1982 to 1999 that were wound to around 12k ohms. 1960s vintage toasters—and modern scatterwounds—are closer to 7.5k ohms. Also referred to as “hot toasters”, they were reissued and officially referred to as such on the 480XC in 2021. The original 12k pickups can be easily identified by the Phillips head screws at their corners.
AC
The 4003AC, a Signature Limited Edition bass designed by and for Al Cisneros of Sleep. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
Accent Vibrato
A simple, surface-mounted vibrato fitted to many guitars from roughly 1960 to 1969. It functions similarly to the Gibson Maestro Vibrola because both were licensed from the inventor, Paul D. Butts. Factory-fitted vibrato model numbers ended in -5, so a 330 equipped with an Accent vibrato was designated a 335. The Accent has also appeared on a number of vintage reissue models. Click HERE to learn more about the Accent Vibrato.
AFG
Factory paint code for Amber Fireglo, the 2006 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
AG or ATG:
Factory paint codes for Autumnglo, a standard factory finish that has been offered off and on throughout the years—and has varied considerably in appearance. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
Aluminum Foil Truss Rod Cover
Collector’s name for the thin, grey-washed stamped-metal truss rod cover used on student and entry-level models from 1957 to 1961. They dent fairly easily, thus the aluminum foil nickname. Click HERE to learn more about truss rod covers.
Amber/Ambering
Prior to the switch to UV-curing in 2009, Rickenbacker’s clear topcoat was susceptible to yellowing over time from UV exposure. Collectors refer to this process as ambering. The effect can be pleasing, leading to Rickenbacker creating artificially ambered finishes like Amber Fireglo by adding yellow colorant to the topcoat.
Astro
An inexpensive kit guitar manufactured in 1963 and 1964 for Christmas sales. It did not share any parts, cosmetics, or design elements with contemporary Rickenbacker models. Click HERE to learn more about the Astro kit guitar.
AZ or AZG:
Factory paint codes for Azureglo, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
Backpainted Plexi Truss Rod Cover
From 1957 to 1974 most Rickenbacker models featured a clear Plexiglas truss rod cover where the logo was silk-screened on the back side and then covered in paint. They were replaced in 1975 with an injection-molded, raised-letter version. They reappeared in the early 1980s on vintage reissue models. Click HERE to learn more about truss rod covers.
BB
Factory paint code for Blue Boy, the 2004 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
BBR
Factory paint code for Blueburst, the 2005 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
Ben Hall
Rickenbacker factory and operations manager and son of owner and longtime CEO John Hall. Increasingly responsible for day-to-day operations.
BG
Factory paint code for Burgundy/Burgundyglo, both a standard factory finish and the 2002 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors or HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
BH/BT
Black Hardware/Black Trim, referring to instruments produced from the mid-1980s to the late 1990s outfittted with black hardware (metal parts) and black trim (plastic parts). There were also BT-only instruments produced from the mid 1970s to early 1980s. Click HERE to learn more about the BH/BT guitars.
Black Diamond
One of the two names—along with Jet Black—used for black finishes prior to the introduction of the Jetglo name in 1965. Jet Black was used from 1957-1959 and 1965-1966, Black Diamond from 1960-1964. Click HERE to learn more about factory finishes.
Blackstar
A limited-production black-painted 4003S bass featuring a black-painted fingerboard and black hardware/black trim. 200 were produced between 1988 and 1990. Click HERE to learn more about the Blackstar.
B-Series
Circa 1982-84 guitars “inspired” by Beatles-associated models. Rickenbacker’s first “reissue” models, but not historically accurate reproductions. Click HERE to learn more about the B-Series guitars.
Blend Knob
The small fifth knob found on many Rickenbacker models that adjusts the neck pickup’s output relative to the bridge pickup, allowing it to function as a pickup volume equalizer or to alter the balance between the two pickups. Click HERE to learn more about the blend knob.
Boyd Vibrato
Collector term often mistakenly used to identify the Japan-sourced vibrato unit found on 1965 to 1967 425s. While there is such a thing as a Boyd Vibrato, it was never offered on Rickenbacker guitars. Click HERE to learn more about the real Boyd Vibrato.
Bridgeplate
To secure the strings at their ball ends, early solidbody Rickenbackers used a flat plate with a bent lip and retaining holes attached to the face of the guitar. The bridge then sat upon this plate. Plate + bridge = bridgeplate. The serial number for most bridgeplate-equipped guitars is stamped into the plate.
Byrd Wiring
An optional factory wiring package offered from 1966 to about 1972 that reproduced the custom wiring found on Roger McGuinn’s 1966 370/12. Click HERE to learn more about Byrd Wiring.
Capri
The original form of the modern Rickenbacker semi-hollowbody, produced from 1958 to 1961. The body was redesigned in mid-1961, creating the “New Capri” shape that lives on in today’s 330. Correct model nomenclature for Capri-era guitars is “330 Capri,” “365 Capri,” etc.
Cat’s-Eye/Slash Soundhole
Interchangeable collector terms for the distinctive long, tapered soundhole found on most semi-hollowbody Rickenbacker guitars.
CB/Checkered Binding
Two-ply binding found on some vintage-era guitars, consisting of an outer white ply and an inner ply of alternating black-and-white squares. Also found on some modern vintage reissue, limited edition, and special-run guitars.
Chickenbacker
Chinese-made counterfeit Rickenbacker instruments, usually of fairly poor quality and generally easy to spot. Not to be mistaken with the Japanese-made “lawsuit era” copies of the 1970s and 1980s.
Clownglo
Collector’s term for Fireglo finishes with an abrupt transition between the dark border and light center. The term was borrowed from the “Clownburst” nickname given to 1970s Gibson Les Pauls in Cherry Sunburst with a similar effect.
COA
Certificate of Authenticity, often issued by the factory with Signature Limited Edition models or special runs, bearing the serial number and the item number within the limited run.
COY
Color of the Year. Each year from 2000 to 2006 Rickenbacker offered a limited edition finish that could be ordered on almost any model, but only during that specific year. Many were actually produced in subsequent years due to factory backlogs and batch scheduling. In order they were: Sea Green (2000), Desert Gold (2001), Burgundy (2002), Montezuma Brown (2003), Blue Boy (2004), Blueburst (2005), Amber Fireglo (2006). Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
Combo
Factory designation for early solidbody (or weight-relieved) guitars. Correct model nomenclature is “Combo 600,” “Combo 400,” etc.
CNC
Computer Numerical Control, the use of computer-controlled machine tools to cut and shape parts. Rickenbacker began producing the wooden parts of its guitars and basses with CNC machines in 1996.
Cresting Wave
The body shape used on 400 and 600 Series guitars, with an upper cutaway shaped like a wave that is cresting and about to break. Introduced circa 1958, the same basic design language was also used for the 4000 Series basses. Click on HERE to learn more about the cresting wave.
Crushed Pearl Inlays/CPI
From 1964 to 1973 the triangular fretboard inlays found on deluxe models were made from sheets of crushed mother-of-pearl. Some modern limited-edition and special-run models have also used a contemporary version of this material. Click HERE to learn more about crushed pearl inlays.
C-Series
The third iteration of vintage reissue models, with production beginning around 2005. The C-Series represented Rickenbacker’s most historically accurate reproductions of the original Beatles-associated instruments to date. John Hall famously refuses to explain what the “C” stands for. Click HERE to learn more about the C-Series guitars.
CS
The 4001CS Signature Limited Edition bass, based on Chris Squire’s modified 1964 Rose Morris 1999. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
CV
Conversion varnish, a two-part catalyzed polyurethane clearcoat used on most Rickenbackers since the early 1960s. A UV-cured formulation has been used since about 2009. Click HERE to learn more about conversion varnish.
CW
The 360CW and 360/12CW Signature Limited Edition guitars, based on a 1965 360/12 played by the Beach Boys’ Carl Wilson. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
DCM
Factory paint code for Dark Cherry Metallic, a finish offered exclusively on the 75th Anniversary models. A non-insignificant number have developed finish problems over time, most commonly excessive checking or a soft, “gummy” finish. Click HERE to learn more about the 75th Anniversary models.
Deluxe
Deluxe models include features such as triangle inlays, body and/or soundhole binding, and stereo wiring. Standard models usually have dot inlays, no binding, and mono wiring. Click HERE to learn more about the differences between standard and deluxe models.
DG
Factory paint code for Desert Gold, the 2001 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
Dick Burke
Richard “Dick” Burke worked for Rickenbacker from 1958-2004, serving as the wood shop manager for most of that period. He was responsible for the design of the 12-string headstock, “New Style” 360, and the R tailpiece, among many other innovations.
Electro
The earliest Rickenbacker lap steel guitars were branded Rickenbacher Electro, and the two names were used almost interchangeably until F.C. Hall bought the company in 1953. After that point, Electro as a brand was used exclusively for student and private-label instruments. The Electro String Instrument Company was also the official name of Rickenbacker’s manufacturing wing from 1933 until the 1990s when it was rolled into Rickenbacker International Corporation.
Exploding Tailpiece
Over time, string tension can weaken the R tailpiece, causing it to crack and break—usually at the crossbar where it fits into the bracket. Most common on 12 string and black powder coated tailpieces. Not as common as you probably think, but more common than it should be. Click HERE to learn more about the R tailpiece.
Exploding Wavy Grovers
Grover Slimline tuners used on basses between 1969 and 1974, and then again from 1982 to 1985. Around 1972, the keys went from flat-stamped to crimped into an “S” shape—thus the “wavy.” The closed-back tuners had casebacks that were press-fit into place, and the mounting lugs could fail over time—especially if they were struck. When that happened, the backs would pop off, leaving nothing holding the gearing in place—thus the “exploding.” Click HERE to learn more about Wavy Grovers.
F-Body Guitars
“Full body” hollowbodied guitars with a more traditional “jazz guitar” single cutaway shape and 17-inch-wide body. Two very different versions were produced, the first between 1958-1961 and the second between 1967-1968. Proper model nomenclature is 360F, 335F, etc. Click HERE to learn more about the first generation F-Body guitars.
F.C. Hall
Francis Cary Hall. Purchased Rickenbacker in 1953 and led its transformation from a small steel guitar manufacturer into the modern Rickenbacker company.
FG
Factory paint code for Fireglo, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
FL
Fretless.
Gap-Tooth Bridge
Prior to mid-1973, the 4001 bridge was made of cast aluminum and featured a gap in the bar between the A and D strings as part of the casting process. Later bridges for the 4001 and 4003 were made of zinc alloy and had no gap.
German Carve
A design feature consisting of a pronounced, concave, stepped edge—the technical term is the “recurve area”—around the perimeter of the body. Most notably seen on the 381V69. Click HERE to learn more about the German carve.
GC
Guitar Center, once a major Rickenbacker dealer that ordered a number of limited edition instruments.
GF
The 230GF and 2030GF Signature Limited Edition models, designed by and for Glenn Frey of the Eagles. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
GH
The 360/12GH, a Guitar Center special run inspired by a 1965 360/12 owned by George Harrison. Similar to the CW, but without the heavily figured wood or checkered binding. Not a Signature Limited Edition model. Click HERE to learn more about special run models.
Glueglo
A mysterious discoloration that developed in the wood near the binding on some guitars produced in 1971 and 1972. Especially noticeable on Mapleglo guitars. Click HERE to learn more about Glueglo.
Gold Plastics
From 1957 to late 1963, many models featured truss rod covers and pickguards made of clear Plexiglas that was backpainted gold. Collectively, these are referred to as gold plastics. They are also found on some modern vintage-inspired and vintage reissue models. Click HERE to learn more about gold plastics.
Gumby Headstock
Collector term for the wide, slightly rounded headstock used on 6-string 360s from 1972 to 1984. Click HERE to learn more about the Gumby Headstock.
Hairpin Truss Rods
Truss rods used from the late 1950s until around 1985, hairpin truss rods consist of a single rod bent in half—like a hairpin—that is adjusted quite differently than a normal truss rod. Attempting to adjust one “normally” can lead to severe damage to the neck or fingerboard, giving them a bad reputation among those who do not understand their operation. Click HERE to learn more about hairpin truss rods.
Half-Tulip
The Combo 450 and 1000 both launched with odd, convex cutaways that made the guitars’ silhouettes look like a…tulip. In late 1957 the treble-side cutaway was reshaped to improve access to the upper frets, earning the resulting body shape the “half-tulip” nickname.
HB1
A humbucking pickup introduced in the late 1980s, most notably used on the 650, 4004, and John Kay and Susanna Hoffs Signature Limited Edition models. Click HERE to learn more about the HB1.
Higains
Single-coil pickups that first appeared on the 381 in 1969 and gradually replaced toasters on all guitars from 1971 to 1974. Wound hotter than the toasters they replaced—thus the name—their specifications have changed subtly over the years. They are recognizable by their black tops and “button” pole-piece covers, except for transitional Higains, which have exposed threaded pole pieces. Newer versions have pole pieces with hexagonal holes for height adjustment with an Allen wrench. Click HERE to learn more about Higain pickups.
Horseshoe Pickup
The first electric guitar pickup, used on Rickenbacker guitars from the 1930s until the late 1950s; basses until the late 1960s; and steel guitars until the early 1970s. Rather than using a magnetic base or pole pieces, the coil is surrounded by two horseshoe-shaped magnets, with the strings actually passing between the magnets and the coil. The pickup cover on modern Rickenbacker basses imitates the look of the horseshoe pickup. The “horseshoe magnets” found on vintage reissue basses are cosmetic only. Click HERE to learn more about the horseshoe pickup.
Jet Black
One of the two names—along with Black Diamond—used for black finishes prior to the introduction of the Jetglo name in 1967. Jet Black was used from 1957-1959 and 1965-1966, and Black Diamond from 1960-1964. Click HERE to learn more about factory finishes.
JG
Factory paint code for Jetglo, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
JK
The 381JK Signature Limited Edition model, designed by and for Steppenwolf’s John Kay and inspired by his 1968 381. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
JL
Signature Limited Edition models inspired by John Lennon’s 1964 325. Models included the 325JL, 355JL, 355/12JL. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
John Hall
Rickenbacker owner and longtime Chairman and CEO. He purchased the company from his father, F.C. Hall, in 1984 and now lives primarily in the UK, having largely turned day-to-day operations over to his son, Ben Hall.
JPS
Factory paint code for Jetglo Pearlstars, a finish that has appeared on multiple special runs. Click HERE to learn more about special colors.
Kauffman Vibrola
The first commercially available guitar vibrato, offered on Rickenbacker guitars from the 1930s to the late 1950s. Moving the handle moves the spring-loaded unit side to side to provide a note bending effect. Click HERE to learn more about the Kauffman Vibrola.
KK Knobs
Black plastic control knobs originally produced by Kurz-Kasch with seven prominent coved ribs, a flared skirt, and a slightly domed top with a white indicator line. Used on many vintage guitars, most reissues, and on all production since 2021.
Lawsuit Era Guitars
Japanese-made Rickenbacker—and Gibson, Fender, etc.—copies from the 1970s and 1980s. Often quite high quality, and not counterfeits—i.e., they were not branded “Rickenbacker.” Click HERE to learn more about Rickenbacker and the lawsuit era.
Lennonize
To modify a 325 to match a specific period in the history of John Lennon’s frequently modified 1958 325. Mods may include additions of a Bigsby vibrato, Sorkin compensated bridge and various control knobs. Click HERE to learn more about Lennonizing.
Lightshow
Produced circa 1970–71, the 331 and 4005LS replaced the normal top of a 330 or 4005 with a translucent one, filled the guts with Christmas tree light bulbs—with different colors responding to different frequencies—and powered the whole contraption with an external transformer. Click HERE to learn more about the Lightshow guitars.
LK
The 4004LK Signature Limited Edition bass guitar designed by and for Motörhead’s Lemmy Kilmister. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
MB
Factory paint code for Montezuma Brown, the 2003 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
MG
Factory paint code for Mapleglo, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
MID
Factory paint code for Midnight Blue, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
Moonglo
Collector’s term for a very dark red sunburst produced in very limited numbers in late 1968. The factory designation was Autumnglo. Click HERE to learn more about the Moonglo guitars.
Natural
The factory name used from 1957 to 1966 for uncolored, natural wood finishes. Replaced by the Mapleglo name in 1967. Click HERE to learn more about factory finishes.
Neck-Through
In neck-through construction, the neck and central core of the body are formed from one continuous piece (or glued laminates) of wood to which body “wings” are attached. Many solidbody Rickenbacker models—like the 4003 or 620—feature neck-through construction. Click HERE to learn more about neck-through construction.
Neck Weight
A lead weight inlaid into the back of the fingerboard on 1970s basses. The purported purpose was to eliminate “dead spots” on the neck.
New Capri
The Capri line was redesigned in mid-1961, and the revised body shape—which lives on in today’s 330—is referred to by collectors as the “New Capri”. The late 1964 transition from gold to white plastics is largely considered to be the end of the New Capri era. Click HERE to learn more about the New Capri.
New Style
In 1964, the 360-style guitar was redesigned from the older, flat, double-bound body to a more ergonomic design with rounded-over horns and top, and a bound soundhole and back. Collectors refer to the redesigned body as the “New Style.”
Noir
Special-run guitars with a Matte Black finish, black hardware, black trim, ebony fingerboards, and checkered binding. Click HERE to learn more about the Noir guitars.
Oven Knobs
Large brown knobs with gold diamond-shaped tops made by Rogan, used on many 1950s and early-1960s models. Also called “stove”, “cooker”, and “TV” knobs.
OS
“Old Style.” 360-style guitars made after 1963 and before 1971 with a flat, bound top, as opposed to the rounded “New Style” top introduced in 1964. Collectors also refer to flat-top guitars built prior to 1964 as Old Style. After 1971, similarly constructed guitars are generally referred to as WB (“with binding”). Click HERE to learn more about OS and WB guitars.
Overrun
When instruments with special features were produced in limited quantities, the factory sometimes built a few extra bodies to allow for manufacturing yield, warranty claims, and other contingencies. If those bodies weren’t needed for their intended purpose, they were sometimes quietly completed and sold without all the identifying features of the original run—such as the signature pickguard on Signature Limited Edition models.
Paddle Headstock
The collector term for the large headstock design used on non-reissue 6-string guitars from 1984 to 2007. Introduced as the company transitioned away from Kluson tuners. Looks like a boat paddle, thus the name. Click HERE to learn more about the paddle headstock.
PMC
Factory designation for the “Paul McCartney” option on the 4001V63. When McCartney’s 4001S was built in 1964, Rickenbacker had not yet developed a left-handed headstock, so the one on his guitar appears “upside down.” The PMC option put either a left-handed headstock on a right-handed instrument or a right-handed headstock on a left-handed instrument to recreate that upside-down look. The later 4001C64 made the “right wrong” headstock standard.
Poured Inlays
From 1957–63 and again from 1973–2007, triangle fingerboard inlays on deluxe guitars were made from a mixture of pearlescent powder and resin, poured as a liquid and cured in place. The 1957–63 and early-1973 versions extended the full width of the fretboard; these were replaced by inset triangles for the remainder of the run. Click HERE to learn more about triangle inlays.
PT
The 1998PT Signature Limited Edition model, inspired by the Rose Morris 1998s played—and smashed!—by Pete Townshend. The first Signature Limited Edition model. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
Purpleburst
Collector term for Blueburst guitars that have faded due to extreme UV exposure, turning the finish from blue to purple. This type of fading is uncommon in most Rickenbacker finishes, making Purpleburst a notable exception. Click HERE to learn more about Purpleburst guitars.
R Tailpiece
The decorative yet functional tailpiece found on most semi-hollowbody instruments—and some solidbodies—since its introduction in late 1964. The R tailpiece was designed by Dick Burke and was inspired by a secondary Washington Redskins logo. Click HERE to learn more about the R tailpiece.
Raised Letter Truss Rod Cover
In 1975 the backpainted Plexiglas truss rod cover was replaced with an injection-molded version with raised lettering. The covers could be molded with white or black resins, with the letters finished in contrasting paint. These remain in use on all stock non-vintage reissue models. Click HERE to learn more about truss rod covers.
RBY
Factory paint code for Ruby, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
Redburst
Collector term for guitars with a red-to-black burst pattern, produced for Rose Morris in early 1966. The official factory paint code for these guitars was Autumnglo but, c’mon. Click HERE to learn more about the Redburst guitars.
Redneck
A limited-production, red-painted 4003S bass featuring a red-painted fingerboard and black hardware/black trim.
Register
The RickResource.com Register, a user-maintained database documenting more than 53,000 Rickenbacker instruments with serial numbers, specifications, and—in many cases—photos. Click HERE to access the RickResource.com register.
RIC
Rickenbacker International Corporation, the holding company founded by John Hall in 1984 that later consolidated Rickenbacker’s previously separate manufacturing and distribution companies under a single corporate structure.
Rickenbacker Outlet/Boutique Guitars
Primarily unique, one-off instruments built and sold directly online through the Rickenbacker website. More recently, the Boutique has begun focusing on small runs of unique instruments.
Rickenbuckers
A nickname for HB1 humbucking pickups. Click HERE to learn more about the HB1.
Rickysounds Nut
A replacement 12-string nut produced by UK dealer Rickysounds that increases the space between string pairs by narrowing the space within each pair and moving the E strings closer to the edges of the fingerboard. Given Rickenbacker’s relatively narrow neck width, many players find these nuts make their guitars easier to play.
Rick-O-Sound/ROS
Stereo wiring found on many deluxe models. Requires a stereo cable plugged into the guitar’s ROS output jack and connected to an external splitter box, allowing the neck and bridge pickups to be sent through separate signal chains. Click HERE to learn more about Rick-O-Sound.
RM
The 370/12RM Signature Limited Edition model, inspired by Roger McGuinn’s modified 370/12. May also refer to Rose Morris, Rickenbacker’s UK distributor in the 1960s. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition guitars.
Roger Rossmeisl
Roger Rossmeisl was a German-born luthier who worked for Rickenbacker from 1954 to 1962. During that time, he designed many of the instruments still in production today—including the 330, 620, and 4003—as well as key elements of the Rickenbacker design language, including the slash soundhole, teardrop pickguard, and paddle-shaped headstock. Click HERE to learn more about Roger Rossmeisl.
Rose Morris
Rickenbacker’s UK distributor during the mid-1960s. Semi-hollowbody Rose Morris models featured f-holes instead of the usual slash soundholes. Rose Morris models and their closest U.S. equivalents were: 1995/615, 1996/325, 1997/335, 1998/345, and 1999/4001S. The 1993 had no direct U.S. equivalent, the closest being a 330/12 with a bound body. Also referred to as RM and RoMo.
RRF
The RickResource.com Forum, one of the oldest and largest repositories of Rickenbacker information and discussion on the internet. Click HERE to visit the RickResource Forum.
Sceusa Neck
A neck profile patented by Peter Sceusa and offered as an option on Rickenbacker guitars in the early 1960s. Much like the EndurNeck found on modern Strandberg guitars, the profile changes as you move up the neck, and its aim was to improve player comfort and string accessibility. Click HERE to learn more about the Sceusa neck.
SF
Slanted Frets. Offered as an option on the 360 from 1970 to 1971, and as standard on the 481 from 1974 to 1979. The frets—as well as the nut and bridge—slant slightly downward from the high E to low E string. Unlike fanned frets, the scale length remains the same for each string. Designed to make chording easier. Click HERE to learn more about slanted frets.
SG
Factory paint code for Sea Green, the 2000 Color of the Year. Click HERE to learn more about the Color of the Year program.
SH
The 350SH Signature Limited Edition guitar, designed by and for Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
Shadow
A 1986 special-run 4003 produced for Guitar Center and generally considered the first modern Rickenbacker special run. Finished in Jetglo with BH/BT, checkered body binding; and black dot position markers. Click HERE to learn more about the Shadow.
Short-Pole Toaster
The earliest toaster pickups’ magnetic polepieces did not extend beyond the bobbin’s base, and therefore came with a flat back. This meant these pickups could be surface mounted. Later versions of the toaster had longer polepieces that required corresponding routs in the body. Reproductions were made for the 325C58, but have never been available as replacement parts.
Signature Limited Edition
A limited edition model either inspired by an instrument closely associated with a particular artist or designed by and/or for that artist. Usually features the artist’s signature on the pickguard. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
Silver-Top Knobs
Black plastic control knobs with a flared skirt, seven prominent coved ribs, and a silver disc on top. The disc is labeled for the specific control—Bass Volume, Treble Tone, etc.—with a white indicator dot. Used on most guitars from the mid-1960s until mid-2020. The smaller blend knob is unlabeled.
Skunk Stripe
Shedua or walnut center strip found on three-piece bass necks from 1972 to 1985 and again from 2022 to present. Click HERE to learn more about the skunk stripe.
SPC
Special. A model with special features (custom color, binding, extra pickup, etc) sometimes produced for a specific dealer, but the SPC label doesn’t really tie directly any particular feature. It basically announces, “Here’s a weird thing we made on purpose.” Click HERE to learn more about the SPC designation.
Special Run
A run of at least two identical guitars—often for a specific dealer/distributor—with specifications that do not appear in the catalog/price list for the given year of production. Those specifications could include color, binding, pickups, number of frets, etc. Click HERE to learn more about special run instruments.
Slotted Headstock
By routing two vertical slots into the face of the headstock, a second set of tuners can be installed sideways, allowing 12-string Rickenbacker headstocks to be much shorter than most. Starting in 2005, these slots were routed all the way through the headstock on non-reissue models.
Standard
Standard model features usually include dot inlays, no binding, and mono wiring, unlike Deluxe models, which usually feature triangle inlays, body and/or soundhole binding, and stereo wiring. Click HERE to learn more about Standard and Deluxe features.
Stubby
Collector term for short, hand-cut truss rod covers used on early Rose Morris 1993s. Click HERE to learn more about the stubby.
Tail Lift
Over time, string tension can pull the tail of the bass bridge up and away from the body. Most common on 1970s to mid-1980s basses, although any bass with the post-1973 zinc-alloy bridge is susceptible. Click HERE to learn more about tail lift.
Tailpiece Ramp
The downward-sloped section of the body beneath the tailpiece on many semi-hollowbody models. The ramp allows the tailpiece to sit at the proper angle while increasing the strings’ break angle over the bridge.
Teardrop Pickguard
You know. It’s shaped like a teardrop. The first now-iconic teardrop pickguards appeared on the 1958 Capri models and have appeared on the vast majority of six- and twelve-string models since.
Toaster Pickups
Vintage-style single-coil pickups used from 1957 to 1974, and then later on vintage reissue models. They kinda…look like the top of a toaster. Toasters represent a rare case of collector lingo becoming the official factory designation.
Toaster “Dimples”
Prior to 1964, toaster pickups featured “dimples” in the corner of the slots—relics from the injection molding process. When the C-Series guitars were introduced, those dimples were reproduced in the name of authenticity.
TP
The 660/12TP Signature Limited Edition, loosely inspired by the 1963 620/12 featured on the cover of Damn The Torpedoes by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. That guitar actually belongs to Heartbreaker Mike Campbell. Click HERE to learn more about the Signature Limited Edition models.
Transitional Era
The period from 1970 to 1974 when Rickenbacker models gradually transitioned from many of their 1960s-era features to the specifications that would define the 1970s. Because the changes were introduced gradually, instruments from this period can exhibit unusual combinations of old and new features. Click HERE to learn more about the transitional era.
Transitional Higains
When introduced on the 381 in 1969—called “381 Coils” at the time—the first Higain pickups looked and sounded very different than the Higains we’ve come to know. These “transitional” Higains—as dubbed by collectors—are easy to spot thanks to their threaded rod-stock polepieces. Transitional Higains were replaced with the more familiar button-top version in mid-1973.
Trapeze Tailpiece
Prior to the introduction of the R tailpiece in late 1964, most semi-hollowbody guitars used a flat metal tailpiece with a roughly trapezoidal string anchor and two narrow mounting arms. It has since been used on several vintage-inspired and vintage reissue models.
Tulip
Several early solidbody guitars featured distinctive cutaways that gave the body a tulip-shaped silhouette. Tulip models include the Combo 400/450, 900/950, and 1000. The cutaway shapes of the 450 and 1000 evolved over time, with one intermediate version now referred to by collectors as a “half-tulip.”
Tuxedo
Limited-production, white-painted 360 and 4003S models featuring white-painted fingerboards and black hardware/black trim. 100 4003s and 30 360s were produced. Often misused to describe any White BH/BT guitar, but only guitars with white-painted fingerboards are Tuxedos.
VB
Circa-1990s option code for a factory-installed Accent Vibrato. The term has since become collector shorthand for any modern guitar fitted with an Accent that would not normally be equipped with one.
VH
Vibrato, Hi-Tek. Factory code for 650 models equipped with the Hi-Tek vibrato.
Vintage
Collector term for models built before 1973, by which point most of the significant changes associated with the transitional era had begun to take hold. Click HERE to learn more about vintage guitars.
Vintage Reissue Models
Modern guitars designed to evoke or recreate vintage models. The B-Series (circa 1982) was followed by the V-Series (circa 1985), which was followed by the current C-Series (circa 2005). Each subsequent series has been more accurate than the one it replaced. Model numbers in the V- and C- series usually end in VXX or CXX, where XX (sometimes loosely!) represents the model year being replicated (i.e., the 360/12C63 is a cope of the 1963 360/12).
Vintage Specifications
1960s-era specifications that were gradually phased out during the 1970-1974 transitional era. Model-appropriate vintage specs may include 21-fret necks, toaster pickups, crushed pearl inlays, neck pickup location, checkerboard binding, thinner tops, and internal “x” bracing, among others. Click HERE to learn more about vintage specifications.
Vintage Tone Circuit
Until 1985, most two-pickup models had a .0047µF high-pass filter on the bridge pickup. This gave the bridge pickup a brighter sound, but lower output. This circuit was reintroduced on the 4003 in 2006, accessible via a push/pull pot and dubbed the “Vintage Tone Circuit.” Click HERE to learn more about the vintage tone circuit.
VP
Factory option code for factory-installed vintage pickups. The term has since become collector shorthand for any modern guitar fitted with toasters that would normally come with Higains.
V-Series
The second vintage reissue series, which began appearing around 1985. The V-Series guitars marked the first serious attempt to recreate vintage specifications.
WAL
Factory paint code for Walnut, a 1970s-era standard factory finish. This does not refer to oil-rubbed natural walnut finishes. Walnut and the 1970s version of Autumnglo are often mistaken for each other—the color is very similar, but Walnut was gloss and Autumnglo was satin. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
WB
With Binding (also known as WBBS, With Binding, Both Sides). Post 1971 non-reissue 360-type guitars with a flat 330-style top and bound edges. Pre 1971 guitars with these features are referred to as OS. The term can also refer to 4005 basses with a flat, bound top. Click HERE to learn more about WB and OS guitars.
WHT
Factory paint code for White, a standard factory finish. Click HERE to learn more about standard factory colors.
W-Series
330, 360, and 4003 models with bodies made of walnut instead of maple. Click HERE to learn more about the W-Series.
WT
White Trim. During the BH/BT era, finishes that came stock with black hardware/black trim could be custom-ordered with chrome hardware/white trim. The factory code for such instruments was WT. Click HERE to learn more about the BH/BT era.
X-Bracing
Until about 1985, semi-hollowbody guitars featured glued-in, X-shaped bracing for reinforcement. After that point, the bracing became carved into the underside of the top itself. Click HERE to learn more about X-bracing.
Great work! But Dick Burke was long gone by the time I started at RIC HQ in 2003. Met him a couple times though, and he's great. Matthew Hill and I have an unpublished interview with him somewhere.
Perhaps a reference to the 4004 Cheyenne model abbreviations, Ci and Cii could be added? 😉❤️