| Author | Message | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 414 Registered: 6-2012 |
OK - last week was a busy week for me. First, I sent Spyder 44/50 off to a new home in Denver where she will receive more attention than I've been able to provide in recent months due to the logistics of moving her around (BIG bass, small car syndrome). I'll miss her, but it's for the best as she will now have a Dragon Wing as a companion and a new owner who is really looking forward to giving her the attention she deserves. Then, almost as if to ease my sorrow, those devious Alembic elves "wheeled the dessert cart" in front of me and showed me THIS:    She's an "orphan" Series II 5-string that has been waiting patiently to find a new home. Since I was rendered powerless by her charms and had so much fun adopting a darling red-headed Rogue (Scarlet O'Hara) last year, I decided to take the Series II plunge. She has all of the usual Series II upgrades, plus an ebony neck lam, some "comfort contouring" on her body, a custom neck taper, an omega and blackened brass hardware. OOH la la... She will be named "Chocolat" (with French accent) for obvious reasons. | ||
| moongerm
Member Username: moongerm Post Number: 80 Registered: 8-2013 |
Congratulations! Beautiful! | ||
| terryc
Senior Member Username: terryc Post Number: 2290 Registered: 11-2004 |
You sucker!! You have no resistance at all LOL | ||
| tbrannon
Senior Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 1666 Registered: 11-2004 |
Awesome figuring. Also- I see Obi Wan Kenobi (with hood on) in the battery backplate and a standing person, arms upraised, in the control cavity backplate. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 415 Registered: 6-2012 |
Now that you mention it, I DO see Obi Wan and it's entirely possible that his subliminal influence gave me that "little push over the cliff". Yikes... Resistance is futile - must give in to the Alembic force... | ||
| mtjam
Advanced Member Username: mtjam Post Number: 249 Registered: 11-2011 |
Beautiful! Keep us posted on its progress. | ||
| adriaan
Moderator Username: adriaan Post Number: 3209 Registered: 6-2002 |
Curvacious! | ||
| manbass7
Member Username: manbass7 Post Number: 71 Registered: 10-2010 |
Magnifique ! (with French accent) | ||
| pierreyves
Senior Member Username: pierreyves Post Number: 1209 Registered: 11-2006 |
wooooooooooowwwwww wolf's Cry..... | ||
| pauldo
Senior Member Username: pauldo Post Number: 1404 Registered: 6-2006 |
Perfect name! She looks rich, dark and creamy. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 416 Registered: 6-2012 |
Thanks to all for your kind words - and I especially like the wolf's cry, Pierre! A small "progress update" to report: After consulting with the Head Elf, we have decided to rename her in honor of Ron's favorite dessert - Framboise Flambe' ("flaming raspberries"). There is apparently quite a bit of rich raspberry red coloration in the coco bolo that isn't completely conveyed by the pix, but is visible in person. So - still deliciously edible, just a different flavor! | ||
| edwardofhuncote
Intermediate Member Username: edwardofhuncote Post Number: 182 Registered: 6-2014 |
RE: Obi Wan... Oh yeah, that's Old Ben Kenobi from out beyond the Dune Sea for sure... that wizard's just a crazy old man, Luke. =) Wood is amazing! | ||
| flpete1uw
Senior Member Username: flpete1uw Post Number: 440 Registered: 11-2011 |
 | ||
| slawie
Senior Member Username: slawie Post Number: 718 Registered: 8-2002 |
Maple, Ebony and Purple Heart neck? Is it 32" scale? The whole thing looks edible! I like flaming raspberries - yum. With Series II Electronics and that wood recipe that bass will sound as good as it looks. Superbly noble gesture to resurrect that beauty. Although methinks there be a hint of self-indulgence, no doubt. slawie | ||
| slawie
Senior Member Username: slawie Post Number: 719 Registered: 8-2002 |
Double post So good I said it twice! (Message edited by slawie on January 20, 2015) | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 417 Registered: 6-2012 |
34" scale. Self-indulgence - ? Possibly...maybe...a little...but after all that's what decadent desserts are all about! I'll be honest, prior to last week, a Series II bass was not on the radar - I've actually been saving for a Spectrum Guitar - but, when opportunity presents itself, I've been know to recalibrate and change course quickly. It's been said that we don't choose instruments, they choose us and I've found this to be very true for my favorite pieces. | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 1903 Registered: 5-2002 |
Wow! If it were a 6 it would be my dream Alembic. Somehow I think it's going to end up in Pierreyves' stable.... | ||
| pierreyves
Senior Member Username: pierreyves Post Number: 1210 Registered: 11-2006 |
for sale ??????????? | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 4384 Registered: 6-2002 |
The coco bolo on that guitar is superb. Like you, David, I'd love to own a Spectrum Guitar but I can't recall any appearing on the used market so I guess they are extremely rare guitars or they are keepers. When I have my sensible hat on I tell myself I'm not playing enough guitar to add a custom built one to my collection but should any of the COTM spectrums come on the market. I will be twitching. I wonder what the elves would charge me to add another pickup, blade switch and spectrum electronics into my Orion guitar. Hmmm, time to email Mica with my thoughts. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 418 Registered: 6-2012 |
Pierre - she's not for sale, but I'll certainly offer you first refusal should my personal circumstances change for the worse. From what I've seen of your collection, she'd fit right in. You have some incredible instruments! Jazzy - re: Spectrum guitar - I couldn't find one either, so my "idle mind" concocted a custom concept and Alembic created a quote. She was basically going to be a mini version of "Royale", my 5-string Europa and I was planning to have a Skyway trem installed. This dream isn't dead by any means, but due to this unexpected opportunity, I've had to postpone it until my finances recover. Too many ideas - too little $$$ syndrome. I'm sure that no one else here can relate to THAT... | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 1908 Registered: 5-2002 |
I was kind of joking because so many of the really nice ones along these lines seem to end up in your collection! Every now and then, I miss my SI a little bit.... | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1515 Registered: 2-2011 |
Wow David! Out with the old, in with the new! Whether it was Obi-Wan using the Force to put into your head that "This IS the bass you are looking for!" ("These are not the droids you are looking for") or if you were just in the right place at the right time, congratulations on your new adoption! That wood is spectacular! | ||
| zomnius
Junior Username: zomnius Post Number: 36 Registered: 9-2013 |
Yum, series! | ||
| zomnius
Junior Username: zomnius Post Number: 37 Registered: 9-2013 |
Yum, series! | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 423 Registered: 6-2012 |
Hey Rusty - thanks for the comments. To answer your question: right place / right time. The Spyder had been sold (but not yet sent) prior to the elves revealing this opportunity. The $$ from that sale was originally intended for the "Spectrum Guitar Fund". When I saw the specs and the pix they sent, well "the Force" took over and I was powerless to resist and the Spectrum project was temporarily placed on hold. If you don't mind, I was going to ask you and some of the other Series owners here for advice as this will be a whole new world for me. I have decided in favor of the small portable DS-5 power supply to allow flexibility with a variety of amps & PA's. Which brings up my first question - can I plug directly into a PA or powered monitor from the DS-5 and go ampless? Anyone have any advice or any experience - good / bad when doing this? | ||
| stephenr
Junior Username: stephenr Post Number: 42 Registered: 9-2014 |
The Series basses have enough gain to drive a power amp if you crank the gain on the pickups high enough so you should have no problem running into a powered monitor. Also no reason you can't run the DS-5 into a PA using a direct box that does not also connect to a bass amp. You could listen to yourself through the stage monitor feed. Looks like it will be a beautiful bass... | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 4389 Registered: 6-2002 |
If you get a decent Stereo DI box you can go from DS-5 into that then into PA then get a feed to your monitor. JJ does that and there are some threads about his approach somewhere on the forum. I've not tried a powered monitor personally but I can't see why it wouldn't work either in mono or a two monitor setup for stereo. | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1521 Registered: 2-2011 |
David, I like my DS-5R rack mount power supply because I also have a SF-2 & tuner & power conditioner in my rack, but I'm already wanting to buy a DS-5 to keep at home so I don't have to set up my rack for my practice amp, & also to make it easy to take with my bass if I go to a music store to try stuff out or play somewhere that has an amp where I wouldn't need my rack. Here's what Jimmy had to say about his bass output "Yes Graeme, the bass was refinished at the end of last year and we added these little triangular inlays as preset level marks for (Rusty) the master volume control. I set the preamp output levels high on my basses and warn the engineer that it's coming at them around line level. If they say "oh, I wanted to run you through this preamp" then I'll set the master to the lower mark and send them mic level. As we know adjusting the output level of our basses doesn't effect the tone as it would on a passive instrument. My "high" mark is also not at the top of the pot's travel. I like having a bit of extra headroom in case for example I need to swell a note at the end of a song. This lets me go past 0 - to eleven if you will!" Here's a picture of the markers on his bass that he mentions -  http://alembic.com/club/messages/411/190152.html?1387168750\ | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 428 Registered: 6-2012 |
Excellent! Thanks for all of the tips, guys. I know there will be a bit of a learning curve, but I anticipate that navigating it will be half the fun. I've also been advised that in the same way non-Series Alembic basses make other basses seem like toys, Series basses make their non-Series Alembic counterparts seem like toys. In preparation for this, I've been devoting a larger portion of my rehearsal time to working on my technique - I want to be sure I'm worthy to play her when she arrives. | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 4392 Registered: 6-2002 |
Hmm... I haven't found that comparison between series and non series basses to be true personally. They just give you the ability to craft your sound more precisely than the signature basses. I find my non series basses have a characteristic tone to themselves that allow me to choose them specifically for that tone. For example I get sounds on my Elan bass that I can't emulate on any other bass series or signature. It's good to have a mix if you can... and you sure do so no doubt you will find your own view on that advice. | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1529 Registered: 2-2011 |
The thing that I noticed on my Series II is that very small changes on the filter are much more apparent than they are on the Signature electronics on my SCSD. I tend to be a "Bull in a china closet" when it comes to making adjustments, but my Europa is teaching me finesse. The old saying "A little dab'll do ya" is very appropriate! You can easily sweep right past the sweet spot you are looking for tonally if you turn the filters too far. I also use the CVQ on my bridge pickup as a sort of treble or brightness control. rather than changing the filter setting, I just turn the CVQ up or down to add or subtract brightness. If you have filters on your current bass, then the Series will not be completely foreign to you. You already understand what the filters do, their effect is just much more enhanced on a Series bass. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 429 Registered: 6-2012 |
Rusty - good explanation. Yes, all of my Alembics have filters. I currently have stock Signature electronics in my SCSD and Crown of Creation custom and stock Europa electronics in my Europa 5 and Rogue 4. I had Anniversary electronics in my recently sold Spyder - which I was told are the closest to Series electronics. Out of all of them, IMO, the stock Europa electronics are the easiest to navigate - dramatic tonal changes can be accomplished very quickly "on the fly". The Anniversary electronics are the most versatile and the Signature electronics fall somewhere in-between. In addition, in my collection, only the SCSD does not have a Fatboy in the treble (bridge) position. The FB certainly does add a bit of girth & presence / thickness to the tones that rely more on that position. | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 60 Registered: 3-2010 |
Well..finally I know what happened to her!! 5a...this was originally my bass, but we had to start a new one because it was supposed to have a heart omega in the tail piece. I have all the neck dimensions in an email from Mica if you want them, and the body is a "balanced P (full size)"...it balances perfectly. I have the new, correct version (same but with heart omega cutout), and trust me...you will fall in love with this instrument. Here's a link to the original build, and page 2 shows the new one. http://alembic.com/club/messages/631/118231.html?1323540416 Congrats!!! Michael | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 458 Registered: 6-2012 |
Michael - Hey - thanks for that background info. Wow - your heart omega version is just as stunning as the orphan (no surprise...)! Glad to hear (and see) that you are happy with her - pix don't lie! Yeah - if it's not too much trouble, you could post the neck dim's here. Susan told me that it's a custom shape, but she assured me that I would like it - as well as the entire instrument. And, as with all of my previous projects, I've learned to trust the elves. I'm beginning to think that they know more about what I'd like than I do... As of today, Framboise Flambe' is still in progress, but I trust closer to completion than when this thread was last updated. In preparation for her arrival, I've been using Royale, my Europa 5-string, as much as possible. And as of last night, everyone in my new project unanimously requested that I use Royale after hearing her for the first time. Prior to that, I'd been using Scarlet, one of my Alembic 4's for the first few rehearsals. I wonder what they'll say when I unleash Framboise on 'em...? | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 61 Registered: 3-2010 |
My pleasure, and I'm SO glad to see she went to a good home! That Cocobolo is a very special piece of wood. It was a block when Susan sent the pics and then she sliced it up...WOW, it is beautiful. I was really sad to have to pick another set for the new one (although I am pretty pleased with what I got!) As for the body shape, it is indeed custom. It is a combination of a slightly modified (very slightly wider at the arm rest area) traditional large body, but with a longer horn similar to the balanced K shape. It really balances perfectly, even when you completely let go of it. I do recommend a good, wide strap...she is a heavy girl. I really recommend the Moody 4" leather strap...Ally (she owns Moody) is the one who made Alembic's straps, and they are the best. The burgundy one matches the cocobolo nicely. And if you didn't know, your Framboise has recessed straplocs. Here's the neck dimensions: id = MM scale length = 34 string dia. 1=.045 2=.065 3=.085 4=.105 5=.130 at nut end: fingerboard width = 1.8 treble edge allowance = .15 bass edge allowance = .15 string center 1 to 2 = 0.353125 string center 2 to 3 = 0.353125 string center 3 to 4 = 0.353125 string center 4 to 5 = 0.353125 spacing between 1 and 2 = 0.298125 spacing between 2 and 3 = 0.278125 spacing between 3 and 4 = 0.258125 spacing between 4 and 5 = 0.235625 at bridge end: treble edge allowance = .15 bass edge allowance = .15 string center 1 to 2 = 0.555 string center 2 to 3 = 0.575 string center 3 to 4 = 0.595 string center 4 to 5 = 0.6175 spacing between 1 and 2 = .5 spacing between 2 and 3 = .5 spacing between 3 and 4 = .5 spacing between 4 and 5 = .5 string edge to edge = 2.43 (projected) fingerboard width at bridge = 2.73 fingerboard width at nut = 1.8 fingerboard width at 24th fret = 2.4975 fingerboard width at 25th fret = 2.51054922230151 fingerboard length = 25.9770683422056 Whew! That's a lot of information, huh? Best regards, Mica I'm looking forward to seeing her finished, and I'll certainly be rejoicing with you! Stay in touch, Michael | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 459 Registered: 6-2012 |
Cool - thanks Mr. Science! I'm confident that all of those subtle body modifications and neck calculations = pure playing pleasure and will ensure that she plays as good as she looks. The best of both worlds - built fer comfort AND speed! Duly noted about the strap - I have a few that might work, but good to have the Moody info "just in case". Figured the weight might be a factor... Bottom line: I'm really stoked and can't wait to put her to good use. Rest assured you can count on getting a full report after she arrives. | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 62 Registered: 3-2010 |
Ha...funny! BTW...here's a photo I had of the original block of cocobolo that yours is made from...  | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 63 Registered: 3-2010 |
AND...here it is after they spliced it up...  | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 64 Registered: 3-2010 |
And 1 more.... | ||
| jimmyj
Senior Member Username: jimmyj Post Number: 563 Registered: 8-2008 |
Hey David, Congratulations on procuring this yummy looking bass. Almost looks like something I might be able to operate! I think you'll enjoy the Series electronics too, pretty amazing. Regarding your powered monitor question - it's true, I've been known to do that on occasion. When the Series preamp outputs are cranked it will put out enough to drive a power amp and the sound is amazingly clean and dynamic. Not everybody's cup of tea, but I really dig it. My weird travel rig includes an active DI box which I've modded to run "in-line", as in; 5-pin in and 5-pin passthrough to the DS-5. Signal is summed to mono and padded down in the DI to provide a mic level balanced output for the FOH. But that leaves the DS-5's unbalanced 1/4" jacks running line out (mono or stereo). Sometimes I need an isolation x-former because of all the grounds involved, but if available I will plug the DS-5 directly into a powered monitor, or the power amp that drives the monitor, and that will serve as my onstage rig. It doesn't always work but I like the option. Also if there is a "house bass amp" I will first try plugging the DS-5 directly into the "power amp in" or "FX return" and see how that sounds. Almost always cleaner than using the preamp. Enjoy that axe! Jimmy J | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 460 Registered: 6-2012 |
Jimmy - Thanks for the kind words - and thanks for the tips! You've given me food for thought and many ideas for experimentation. Good idea re: using FX return as input on a house bass amp. To your point - no need to insert what is likely to be an inferior preamp between the SII electronics and the power amp. BTW: it's an honor and a privilege to be able to correspond with a player of your stature and experience. I first became aware of you through your work with Allan Holdsworth on Metal Fatigue - a feast for both guitarists and bassists! BTW: let me know if you're ever in the Phoenix area and you would be more than welcome to take her for a test drive! Michael - Thanks for the additional build progress pix. FWIW: I think one of the most exciting phases of the build process is when Susan "sees" the shape of the instrument in the wood and draws the outline to show where to cut. That ability is a gift. I'm going to harvest these and archive them with the rest of the info. | ||
| moongerm
Intermediate Member Username: moongerm Post Number: 142 Registered: 8-2013 |
This is terrific info Jimmy, thank you for sharing your expertise! If you ever want to sell one of those neat active di boxes I would be interested as it sounds very useful.  I have my first Series build in progress so I am banking up the neat approaches for connectivity to consider. Again congratulations David on a fine instrument! -Brian | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 534 Registered: 6-2012 |
OK - last week kinda sucked for me. Lost a decent-sized chuck of my left temple due to skin cancer. So I was a little depressed. At least until Friday when the elves provided me with the UPS tracking number for THIS:   And suddenly things didn't seem so grim - thanks Susan & Mica! She should arrive tomorrow - ! And although my face don't look so good right now, it will eventually recover. But, until then, my fingers are working just fine - and they have a beautiful new playground to explore - ! | ||
| tbrannon
Senior Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 1692 Registered: 11-2004 |
Congratulations on the impending bass arrival and healing vibes sent to you on the skin cancer thing. It's better they take a big chunk and get clean margins.... hopefully you'll have many years to watch that scar slowly fade away while you play beautiful music on this instrument. | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 4246 Registered: 5-2009 |
Congratulations from here as well ! In addition I send healing vibes . I had several liquid nitrogen treatments for a less severe scenario as well a few years back on my face but it left me a bit concerned at the time . Best regards ! Wolf | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1676 Registered: 2-2011 |
Congratulations on the much desired "Shipping Notice!" That is a beautiful bass & should be a wonderful playground for your fingers & eyes!! The string spacing looks very similar to my Europa. I love the narrow spacing! Now, as Tom Petty so eloquently put it, "The waiting is the hardest part!" I'm praying for a full recovery for your skin cancer & that soon it will be a distant memory! Nothing like a beautiful new Alembic to take your mind off of things! | ||
| mtjam
Advanced Member Username: mtjam Post Number: 313 Registered: 11-2011 |
I am sorry to hear that your last week has not been good. However, congratulations on the incoming new bass! Healing vibes to you! May you play on for many, many years! | ||
| moongerm
Advanced Member Username: moongerm Post Number: 210 Registered: 8-2013 |
Prayers for healing. Congratulations on a most beautiful instrument. I too love that string spacing. Be Blessed. - Brian | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 11770 Registered: 5-2002 |
Congrats on the beautiful bass! And best wishes on your recovery. | ||
| dead_head
Member Username: dead_head Post Number: 92 Registered: 5-2014 |
Congratulations on your gorgeous new arrival! Prayers and best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery. | ||
| flpete1uw
Senior Member Username: flpete1uw Post Number: 501 Registered: 11-2011 |
Congratulations on your new arrival from the Alembic stork. The best cure for a medical setback is a good sense of humor and amazing musical vibrations from what this bass will bring! Looking forward to hearing your report especially on what looks to be a thunderous neck layout! Prayers for Peace towards a speedy and full recovery. Pete | ||
| charles_holmes
Senior Member Username: charles_holmes Post Number: 402 Registered: 3-2009 |
Be well, and may Yahweh show his countenance upon you. With brotherly love ... Chalie | ||
| edwardofhuncote
Advanced Member Username: edwardofhuncote Post Number: 383 Registered: 6-2014 |
Wow that's nice David! (but I still like "Crown" best) =) Glad also you got on the cancer quickly. :thumbsup: | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 535 Registered: 6-2012 |
Guys - First off - thanks to all of you for your kind thoughts and wishes. We say it a lot here, but this is really a special place. We should take pride in that. And seeing as how I hijacked my own thread, it's now up to me to "stitch" it together. First - cancer update: Stitches come out day after tomorrow. It's a pretty nasty little gash - runs from a little beyond the corner of my left eye to a little ahead of my left ear and it's not a straight line. But, I was told that they got it all. Now, onto waaaay better things: She showed up yesterday as scheduled. Delivered to my office. Had no time whatsoever to unpack her (first day with a new boss compounded by wall-to-wall meetings). So had to wait until I got home to explore (TORTURE!!!). Had about 1/2 hour last night and 45 min. this am to get acquainted. Fit and finish are superb as usual. Weight not as bad as I was expecting – didn’t weigh her, but I assume around 11 lbs. Balance is good, no neck dive seated or standing. She is visually stunning and the elves are correct – there IS a lot of red in the cocobolo that really doesn’t show up in photos! So her moniker - Framboise Flambe' - is appropriate (trust Susan, she always knows..) Neck is a custom spec (see post above) and is very comfortable for a 5-string, but the string-to-string spacing is closer than Royale, so slap is a little more challenging for me. Was able to figure out the Series II controls pretty quickly – more quickly than I expected. Using the stereo mode really helped here as I was able to use the pickup selector to isolate each pickup through a separate amp and then dial in the tone. Wow - there are an INFINITE number of subtle tonal shades that can be accessed. And the best part is, there ain’t a clunker in the bunch – it just depends upon what would be appropriate for a specific purpose. FYI: I really like the separate volumes for each pickup and the global master volume. Compared to non-Series Alembic electronics packages, Series II low end is richer and “rounder”, the mids are fuller and clearer and high-end detail is always present - even in the lowest tonal registers. All of the notes from top to bottom of the range of the instrument are clear and defined. Didn’t think the typical great Alembic tones that I’ve enjoyed over the last three years could be improved, but I was wrong. Just fooling around at low volume for a short time with two small amps, I was able to dial in some absolutely amazing sounds – some of them are easily the best bass tones I’ve ever been able to achieve in a home practice situation. Can’t wait to see what she can REALLY do in a group setting at proper volume… | ||
| moongerm
Advanced Member Username: moongerm Post Number: 211 Registered: 8-2013 |
What a great update and review! I am super happy for you, especially on the significant difference in tones from non series to series tronics ! What are the nut and 24th fret dimensions? Again congratulations and blessings. -Brian | ||
| moongerm
Advanced Member Username: moongerm Post Number: 212 Registered: 8-2013 |
Sorry the neck dimensions were already listed above in the thread. | ||
| slawie
Senior Member Username: slawie Post Number: 792 Registered: 8-2002 |
Congratulations on both outcomes. I can only imagine the frustration of having your bass sitting in a box all day at work. Mate I would be pulling a sickie next day! Everything about it is perfect particularly for me the neck recipe and dimensions. Play healthy. slawie | ||
| slawie
Senior Member Username: slawie Post Number: 793 Registered: 8-2002 |
double post (Message edited by slawie on June 03, 2015) | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 538 Registered: 6-2012 |
Stitches are out and I'm on the mend - so that little chapter is coming to a close. In order to take my mind off the whole ordeal, I've been playing FF as much as I am able to. When I pick her up, I gotta be careful to carve out a little more time than I expect to need because once I start, I can't put her down. It's like being on a little journey that I don't want to see end. I'm really digging the way the individual volume controls for each PU and the global master all work together and I'm also digging the stereo capability. I had stereo capability with the Spyder, but, for some reason, I didn't like it as much as this - it didn't seem to have as much impact on the sound. I can't believe that I originally thought I wouldn't use that feature very often with FF. Now I can't imagine not using it. I've also noticed that my playing style is starting to evolve a bit - I've begun to add more partial and full chords into my bass lines. Previous to FF, I would do this on occasion, but now, because of the higher degree of clarity and note definition, I am encouraged to be a little more adventuresome with them - using wider intervals and playing them further up the neck. Who says gear doesn't affect the way you play (or feel) - ? | ||
| hammer
Senior Member Username: hammer Post Number: 711 Registered: 9-2009 |
You and Rusty are spreading the contagion. The more I read your posts the more I find myself spending time looking for Series basses. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 539 Registered: 6-2012 |
Not to sound like a salesman, but I seriously did not think the non-Series Alembic tone could be dramatically improved upon. I've been using various Alembics with various electronics configurations over the last three years and couldn't be more pleased - they all sound great and were delivering everything I needed - so I had no real burning desire to "go Series". Now that I've immersed myself in that experience over the last few days, I would describe it this way: it's everything you like about the Alembic tone, just more focused and refined. It's smoother, more responsive and touch sensitive. Sort of like the difference between a very good wine and a great one. Both are enjoyable, it's just that the great one has that "something extra". Plus, the controls allow you to really dial in "YOUR tone" based on your technique and touch. Definitely not a "one size fits all" approach to tone. It's taken me over 40 years to finally stop worrying about sounding like someone else and start concentrating on sounding like me - and I now have the ideal tool to help me continue that quest. | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1677 Registered: 2-2011 |
David, I'm so glad you got the stitches out & are on the road to recovery! Glad you finally got FF in your hands too! You are so right about the stereo sound, Series basses were made to be ran in stereo! I was blown away the first time I hooked mine up in stereo! I found all the high end I thought I was missing. The clarity is simply unbelievable! One thing I have also learned about Series II electronics is that when playing by myself I may not notice the subtle differences in tone when adjusting the CVQ's, but in a live situation with a band, I can turn them to get just the right amount of clarity to cut through the mix. Many times rather than turn up so I can hear myself, I will add a little more CVQ on the bridge pickup & it's just what the doctor ordered! It's the perfect seasoning for a gourmet meal! You are right, though, every tone is tasty! | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 540 Registered: 6-2012 |
Yes, Rusty - that's what I'm discovering. It's not about volume, it's about clarity - dialing in the tone that best conveys what your fingers are doing (different for everyone...) and tweaking it so that it sits in the mix (different for each band, room and even each song). Prior to having this much versatility at my finger tips, it was a little more challenging to accomplish this. Sort of like using a knife when a precision scalpel would be more appropriate. At first glance, the Series II electronics seem complex and confusing, but after you get accustomed to thinking differently about how to shape your tone, they make perfect sense and are actually the perfect "tool kit" for the purpose. Not to keep beating this, but the stereo capability is not a gimmick - it's really key to the tone shaping. Having the ability to separate the treble and and bass pickups makes it so much easier to dial in the correct tone for each and then blend them as required for the situation. And - having a global master volume is just the icing on the cake. I can't believe I've missed out on this all these years...oh well, better late than never - ! | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1679 Registered: 2-2011 |
What amp setup are you using? | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 4526 Registered: 6-2002 |
Good vibes to you my friend. I'm with you guys on the sound as one of the big things I notice about my series II is the clarity and pristine cleanliness of sound it produces whatever position the controls are at. Whilst I understand the benefit's of it, I've only tried stereo a small number of times and in those instances I can't say the effect was that great to make me want to do it as my norm. I think when I get to do some gigs where the purpose of the music for the audience isn't to dance, party and get drunk but to listen and focus on the stage, then I'd start looking at the stereo option in more detail. It's one thing for me to be able to hear it on stage but to go to all that trouble I'd want to know that the music out front is better for it too. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 541 Registered: 6-2012 |
Jazzy - Thanks - your thoughts are much appreciated. Understood re: projecting the stereo effect to the audience and how effective it will be. Haven't quite gotten around to figuring out how best to navigate that with a PA / sound person. I've just gotten the hang of the basic Series II set up in my home rehearsal space - I like to be real prepared prior to taking something this "showy" out in public, so no one's seen her yet. I'm thinking that I'd need two channels in the board, I'd ask that they both be set "flat" to start and then I'd manipulate the bass controls to show the sound person the range of what I'd typically be doing. After that, I'd leave it up to them to decide what sounds best for the band mix and the room. As long as I can hear myself onstage, I'm a happy guy. Rusty - As for the "practice" rig - it's pretty primitive: I use the portable DC-5 power supply. Treble PU is fed straight to a Henriksen Jazzamp 112 ER (which is a 1x12 solid state 160 watt closed back combo amp with a tweeter that is really designed to amplify jazz guitars). Bass PU is fed straight to an AER Amp One bass amp (which is a 1x10 solid state 200 watt closed back bass amp with a port). FWIW: I haven't twisted a single knob on either amp - I left the Henriksen set as I normally do for my jazz guitars and the AER set as I normally do for my other Alembic basses. All of the tonal variations have come from the Series II controls on the bass. Volume is low (home situation, no band), but the sound is still full and "meaty" and sits in the mix well when I crank my practice CD's to rehearse with. I'm starting to think about the rig I will use when I unleash FF in a band situation. Currently, I just plug my non-Series Alembics into anything available at the studio where I've been rehearsing - really doesn't matter too much because eventually everything sounds good (or so I've been told). Live I've been using a SansAmp DI and powered monitor - so the PA is my amp. I may have to rethink that a bit. | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 2041 Registered: 5-2002 |
The Grace Design Felix is finally in production. I got one about a week ago and have been loving it, sending the stereo signals to the FOH and then blending the channels for onstage monitoring. Coupled with a Peavey IPR 3000, it's a very lightweight and versatile rig. | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 4527 Registered: 6-2002 |
I did a stereo setup at a gig last December and the sound guy was great. He took a DI from both of my F1-x's and mic'd both cabs. | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 4257 Registered: 5-2009 |
Stereo with a center mono channel containing a set balance of both pickups is my current experiment. Wolf | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 542 Registered: 6-2012 |
Ah yes, the Felix DI. I remember it from your earlier post, Edwin. At the time I didn't have a Series instrument, so I filed it away for the future. Which has arrived. Wolf - please keep us informed on the progress of your experiment. It sounds really interesting. This is a whole new frontier for me, so I'm gonna be like a sponge for awhile and just soak it all up. | ||
| rustyg61
Senior Member Username: rustyg61 Post Number: 1689 Registered: 2-2011 |
David, add a F-2B to your wish list! It is the perfect companion for Series bass! It give's you the option to go full stereo into separate cabinets, or combine both channels into one cabinet which is how I'm running now. Nothing beats stereo, but even going mono into one cabinet, having a separate channel for each pickup makes a huge difference. You can still use your powered monitor & have a pseudo-stereo effect. | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 547 Registered: 6-2012 |
F-2B is also under consideration along with the Felix! As is simply getting another AER Amp One...which would be really portable and flexible. Hey - you know it's really a great time to be a musician right now with all of these amazing equipment options available to us. I wish some of this stuff would've been around when I was starting out - oh wait, Alembic has always been there, I just missed th' boat back then... | ||
| tmimichael
Member Username: tmimichael Post Number: 65 Registered: 3-2010 |
5A... Oh MAN...she is beautiful! It's so cool to finally see that slab of cocobolo in a gorgeous, finished instrument! It's funny, but I kinda feel like we're related now or something... :-) And all you had to say about the Series II electronics took me right back to when mine came in...and I still drop my jaw every time I stand out in front of our PA and listen (I run from a Demeter VTBP-201 tube preamp direct into the PA-no amp on stage. In-ear monitors). And since ours are sort-of "twins", I know what FF sounds like... Congratulations are in order, but somehow don't really seem to say it all, so... Play her in health, happiness and peace... Michael | ||
| 5a_quilt_top
Senior Member Username: 5a_quilt_top Post Number: 557 Registered: 6-2012 |
Thanks Michael - same to you! I was going to PM you at some point to thank you for initiating this project - but you beat me to it with your post. UR correct - she has exceeded expectations and they were set pretty high. I'd have to say without a doubt - the finest bass I've ever played. I hate to use the word "perfect", but nothing else seems to fit. I love all of my other Alembics, but Framboise just has that little something extra - there's magic in her. I agree - our basses are fraternal twins and we are related, too - by marriage! A marriage of wood to vision and craftsmanship. Nature's wood, your vision (with Susan's guidance) and the master craftsmanship of the entire Alembic team. I'm basically just an innocent bystander who happened to be in the right place at the right time to be able to take advantage all of that talent and effort. Maybe one day the "twins" can meet. |
