[Bass of the Week] Mid-2000s Modified Epiphone Ripper

This week’s bass guitar of the week is a modified Epiphone Ripper where the goal was to make it appear to be a special factory run model.

Owner/modder Benjamin writes:

My second Epiphone Ripper. First was a black 1st generation single pickup model from late 1990s, named Black Betty. Betty evolved using Bartolini pickups supplied by Best Bass gear in early 2000s, serving as my flexible workhorse. When Betty’s body cracked at the neck pocket in 2011, I set about finding another Epiphone Ripper. After a couple of years I found a 2006ish 2nd generation model. While transferring the electronics I discovered nothing carried over between generations. Constant evolution has led “Blondie”, or Ripper #7 to the current “super factory” state – with massive thanks to Best Bass Gear for everything except the pickguard and strings!

Brass nut standard

Bartolini MMC (neck) and MMX (bridge) pickups

Bartolini NTMB-918 preamp

Parallel/Single-Coil/Series mini-switches for each pickup

Vol, Blend, Mid w/push-pull 250Hz/800Hz, Stacked Bass/Treble, Mute switch

Custom CNC routed 3-ply pickguard, with #7 routed to white layer

9V battery compartment low on the back

Hipshot A-Style black brass bridge (top-load) for now. Possible string-through later

Hipshot Ultralite 1/2″ black clover tuners and Xtender

DR Hi-Beams standard gauge or RotoSound Swing RS66LD

Ultimate goal is for a comfortable, versatile bass that looks like a super special factory job.

At first glance, some might be fooled into thinking this is a factory-run special model, but all the mods were done by the owner in a very clean way.

Great job, Benjamin!

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