LOL! I <3 that series. I've always liked Rics... just something really illustrious about them. I remember listening to 2112 by Rush and thinking about how sweet it would be to own one. Anyway, when I turned 18, my folks asked what I wanted. Funnily enough, I saw FLCL just before my 18th and after some talking, my folks gave me half the money to order my 4003
Back on topic and out of memory lane...
I hadn't played a Rickenbacker before I ordered mine (living in Pembs, there's nowhere even remotely close where I could). When it arrived, the immediate cause for concern was the bridge pu cover. It was literally sitting on "my" spot... the perfect spot for fingerstyle. The neck I found comfy, in fact I found it nicer than my old Jazz bass, but then I have quite chunky hands. The string spacing was fine for me, but the string tension was a bit low and it felt a bit "floppy" as such.
However, times change. I left the pu cover on; I now play just behind the bridge pu and I rest my thumb on the pu cover. For slower, more mellow songs, I play just in front of the bridge pickup. At several points, I felt like selling it because something wasn't clicking. One day, after I had left it in it's case for a good month or so (the 5 string was getting all the love), I had the hankering for some clanky Ric-ness. Took her out and it clicked. I dunno what happened, but it felt PERFECT in my hands. That was about 6 months ago now and I right now I don't think I can EVER sell it
. It still perplexes me thinking about how this bass just suddenly felt right.I dunno what it was, maybe just a rocky honeymoon, but after a year and a half of on and off playing (the Ric), I feel right at home on the Ric. Yes, the bridge p***es me off but it's managed to become part of its charm, like a large mole on your girlfriend's nose (gimme a break, it's 3:40am here and I can't think of a better analogy).
And returning to the OP and all teh dramaz: I occasionally felt that the 4003 is a tad overpriced, but it depends. If you don't like it then yes, it's overpriced (and some things, mostly the bridge could do with an upgrade). However, if you wanted a Ric that badly, you'd fork out the cash. It's an instrument that is entirely unique in sound, look and feel. Looking back on my purchase now, I'm glad I spent every penny I did on my Ric
Does it bother me? Not at all. They're not for everybody, but when some of the Warwick lovers complain, everyone tells us to deal with it. That's why it's funny seeing some of the Ric people bitch and whine. 
