Editing Rickenbacker (section)

== Hallmarks of Rickenbackers ==
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[[File:Rickenbacker neck.jpg|thumb|200px|Double truss rod neck]]
Some Rickenbacker models feature a [[stereophonic sound|stereo]] "Rick-O-Sound" output socket, allowing each pickup to be routed to different amplifiers or effects chains. Another feature is the use of two truss rods to correct twists and curvature in the neck. Rickenbacker guitars typically have a set neck made of multiple pieces of wood laminated together lengthwise, while their basses have a one-piece neck that [[Neck-through|extends through the entire body]]. Rickenbacker instruments are known for narrower necks (41.4&nbsp;mm versus 43&nbsp;mm at the nut for most competitors) and lacquered rosewood fingerboards, giving them a different feel.

Known for their bright jangle and chime, early Rickenbacker guitars were often favored by [[folk rock]], and [[British Invasion]] bands such as [[The Searchers (band)|the Searchers]], [[The Beatles]] and [[The Who]]. The early models were equipped with low-output toaster pickups. With the late-1960s advent of heavy rock, these were phased out circa 1969–70, and replaced by high-gain pickups with twice the output. Still, the early models were viewed by [[Pete Townshend]] as pivotal in his refinement of feedback techniques and the eventual development of the Marshall sound.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.premierguitar.com/Magazine/Issue/2010/Apr/Pete_Townshend_On_Guitar_Smashing_Regrets_Stylistic_Evolution_and_Becoming_a_Gear_Aficionado.aspx |title=Pete Townshend: On Guitar-Smashing Regrets, Stylistic Evolution, and Becoming a Gear Aficionado |date=April 2010 |magazine=Guitar Aficionado |quote=It's interesting to think that the Marshall sound I helped Jim and his guys develop was built around the very low output and thin, surfy sound of the Rick. The sound I wanted was Steve Cropper, but very loud. The early Marshall with a Rick gave me that. The semi-acoustic body and a speaker stack feeding right into the guitar was what allowed me to refine tuneful feedback.}}</ref>

Since the 1960s, a diverse cross-section of artists have played Rickenbacker guitars. In 1979, Tom Petty and [[Mike Campbell (musician)|Mike Campbell]] of [[Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers]] used vintage 1960s models to attain that toaster-pickup jangle. The high-gain pickup sound is associated with acts such as [[The Jam]] and [[R.E.M.]]