The "S" model of the famous 4003 [and 4001] bass is trhe one without binding or triangular fretboard inlays. This one has dot inlays. In many ways, it's the working musician's RIC, but I like it better. For one thing, the un-bound body is more contoured and easier to play, and for another, it doesn't have the stereo Rick-o-Sound jack that I would never use. It's mono only.

Having said all of that the quality of construction is extraordinary. I bought the instrument used, and even though it spent six years in a punk band, it has only four minor dings. The fretboard, though rosewood, has a high-gloss finish and plays a lot like maple.

If you like the RIC sound -- and I love it -- it's impossible to get bad tone out of this instrument. The action is admirably low without being rattly, and the slightly short scale [33.25"] does make it easier for me -- a guitarist -- to play.

A thoroughly incredible instrument.

Construction	99%
Playability	99%
Appearance	100%
Sound	99%
Value	99%
Overall	100%