1976 Rickenbacker 481

A very cool and relatively rare 1976 Rickenbacker 481, featuring a unique body shape and unmistakable styling that make these such interesting guitars. The 481 has an interesting backstory:

"In 1972, Rickenbacker’s guitar sales were dismal, but 4001 demand was beginning to boom. Hoping to capitalize on the latter to help with the former, Rickenbacker slapped a guitar neck onto a 4001 body to create the 480." 

And thus, the 481 was born, utilizing higher gain pickups than other Tic models, and a sporting a design closer to that of their bass instruments, you'd be hard pressed to find something similar nowadays.

This example is in very good condition, with some finish wear near the headstock from prolonged contact with a guitar hanger.

At some point, the fingerboard began separating from the neck and was professionally reglued by Adam at Mill City Lutherie here in Minneapolis. The repair has been completed, though a slight ridge remains along the affected area where the finish cracked during the separation. We’ve included photos of the area so you can see exactly what we’re describing.

The electronics appear original, with CTS potentiometer codes indicating 1975 manufacture, consistent with the guitar’s 1976 production date.

A distinctive, increasingly hard-to-find vintage Rickenbacker with plenty of character!

Weighs 8 lbs 13 oz.

In very good condition, original hardshell case included.