High Frequency and Directional Noise ...

Log Out | Topics | Search Moderators | Register | Edit Profile

Author Message mica Moderator Username: mica Post Number: 2251 Registered: 6-2000 Posted on Friday, February 04, 2005 - 10:33 am:    Series I and II instruments use single coil pickups. Our original design is quite effectve in eliminating low-frequency noise (60Hz hum). Recently high frequency noise sources and changes to radio broadcast requirements have introduced possible problems on these models made before 1999. If you play in a rural or undeveloped area, there will likely be few high frequency noise sources and you probably won't notice a problem. If you live in a city or travel to one to play, you'll notice the problem there. The symptoms that your Alembic needs upgrading are: 1. persistent high frequency noise 2. directional noise Presently, the only remedy is to send the guitar or bass to us for an upgrade. There is a sliding scale of prices for this service, depending on the age of the instrument. Ron builds a high fequency noise cancelling network and prevents these signals from ever entering the instrument's signal path. It will not change the tone of the instrument at all, it merely removes the annoying noises. Instruments are quieter than when they were new after the upgrade. We first try to use the original pickups unless they prove to be part of the source of the problem. For any parts that we need to replace we return the originals to you when we send back your instrument. Ron has built a large coil for the purpose of testing the effectiveness of his modifications. He calls this the "meanest place in the world for guitars." He makes it quiet in there, and it's quiet all over the world. Appointments are required for this service, and because of the amount of time involved are frequently not available for months. Please call 707 523 2611 to book your appointment. Payment is due when you send in your instrument. Customers have reported to us that the servicing well exceeded their expectations and those who are fortunate enough to have owned a classic Alembic for 20 years or more confirm that we return the guitar with quieter electronics then even when it was new.