That's RIC's M.O!
Precisely this. Nothing more lifeless than trying out a Rick in a shop and being plugged into a TC Electronic combo. Ricks demand amps, or at least a preamp, with character and colour.
4004s are updated 4003s with contoured bodies, simplified wiring and without all the antiquated features like large body cavities and bridges.
The pickups are humbuckers and are much darker and fatter. You can get vintage sounding pickups to fit though, which is something I've fancied doing
I think Jon Hall has already retired and his son is in charge now - hence the appearance of the 4005, something Hall Snr vowed would never happen.
Admittedly, it's a 4005 in name only, looking more like a modified 330.
Just got back from rehearsal... BRUTAL tone from the new bridge (middle?) pickup alone, the clank and growl I've wanted to hear from my Rick for ages! The band were getting annoyed by the sheers aggro coming out of the speakers but who cares.
That pickup alone is a bit middy so I had to crank the lows but I got away with it. As soon as my stereo splitter is repaired I'll be unstoppable!
Finally got my JC back after some minor surgery. The Hipshot fits lovely with the aid of a couple of felt pads as recommended by Hipshot.
Unfortunately the Blue Steels it's wearing (as recommended by JC himself) are very disappointing. They left me with dirty black marks on my fingers and the E is a duffer.
I know it's a minor issue but it's ruined the reunion somewhat.