Haggling for a 2010 Rickenbacker 4003

[JamMasterJR]

I'm finally able to afford a Rickenbacker 4003. My local music shop (which is an authorized Ric service center) will price match. That means that I can get that 2010 Ric 4003 (that's been sitting in the shop, unsold, for at least 5 months) for the same price as at MusiciansFriend. I played it in November and loved it. I really want it.

I'm wondering what the profit margin on these basses is and how much I should offer for it. I'd like to calculate the depreciation but don't know if depreciation works on the only Ric for sale vs. standard depreciation for things like cars. They'll demand $1900-2000 (whatever MF is charging) but I'd like to pay closer to $1500-1600.

Any suggestions on how to proceed?

 

[Ric5]

I really like every 2010 4003 that I have ever played. That being said whenever you buy a bass that has been in a music store for a while is have they neglected the setup. Is the neck still straight. A 4003 should be adjusted twice a year. Rarely when a Ric doesn't get that adjustment the neck will bow. Check the neck before you buy.

They can still make a profit at $1600.

Musicians friend is always having 15% off sales --- sometimes 10% to 12% --- so don't pay $1900 for a new Rick. Get at least $190 off the asking price.

 

[CrashCarlisle]

$1600 is a fair price. I'd offer less, because you can buy a brand spanking new, never touched by the 'unwashed masses' Ric for less than that.

I got mine for $1519.00 + $49 Shipping. After I bought it, I received another email quote from another shop for $1499 with free shipping.

MF wanted $1900, and that's with a discount.

Edit: I didn't have pay sales tax and the Ric was properly setup when I received it.

 

[Disco Batman]

1500-1600 is a fair price for a new Ric. 1900 plus that a lot of places charge is just robbery.

 

[JamMasterJR]

$1600 is a fair price. I'd offer less, because you can buy a brand spanking new, never touched by the 'unwashed masses' Ric for less than that.

I got mine for $1519.00 + $49 Shipping. After I bought it, I received another email quote from another shop for $1499 with free shipping.

MF wanted $1900, and that's with a discount.

Edit: I didn't have pay sales tax and the Ric was properly setup when I received it.

That's good to know. Say, where did you get the quotes? I can use that as ammunition.

 

[Sanchez83]

That's good to know. Say, where did you get the quotes? I can use that as ammunition.

Try Invalid Link Removed. $1519. Includes setup and case. Just got a quote from them, as Ive been fancying a 4003, myself.

 

[michael_atw]

1500-1600 is a fair price for a new Ric. 1900 plus that a lot of places charge is just robbery.

They're worth as much as someone will pay. If they sell @ $1900, how is that robbery?

 

[tangentmusic]

Take your $1600 cash, flash it at them, and say "$1600 out the door".
I bet they'll take it

 

[JamMasterJR]

Try Invalid Link Removed. $1519. Includes setup and case. Just got a quote from them, as Ive been fancying a 4003, myself.

Thanks! I just got the email back with the same $1519 quote. With the hard copy of the email, it's all the ammo I need since the local store will price match.

 

[Sanchez83]

Thanks! I just got the email back with the same $1519 quote. With the hard copy of the email, it's all the ammo I need since the local store will price match.

Happy to help. Best of luck to you!

 

[WalWarrior]

I got my 4003 MB from MF last August when they had the rediculous sale for $1100.00 ( after coupon code )

That was a heck of a deal. Good luck with the purchase!