| Author | Message | ||
| muller1007
Intermediate Member Username: muller1007 Post Number: 106 Registered: 5-2002 |
Check out this discussion about Alembic basses: http://www.level42webdigest.com/forum/showthread.php?p=130451#post130451 I gave it a shot. Anyone else? Duncan | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 248 Registered: 3-2006 |
Well, I am going to read to thread, but for now, I'd say that Alembic is NOT the poor man's instrument, it's like Rolex or Ferrari. The nice thing is that Alembic sell PUs and Harness, so in a way the poor-man can get a taste of it. For me it was the way to go. And talking about cars, my favorite is the Porsche 911 vintage, I don't have one, but I used to have a model I made... lol Otherwise, I can tell you that I have spent an other night (yes, my thigh hurts, due to the heavy wood of my Aria...) playing by myself over various tracks, and I am so pleased that I haven't had time to feedle much with the knobs or Q-switch yet! That's right, I am sucked in, and in sound so good that I forget about what over tones I can get. A bit like the proverb: "the grass is "not" always green on the over side of the fence... The only little argument I had with Mica, was because I wanted some low-mid control, and cannot afford a Superfilter, but that's just me, I have learnt some engineering technique and fortunately, because I am ware of it, I want/need the control. In the way, I wish I didn't know, but on the other hand, it's nice when people ask you: "how do you get the bass to cut through so well...?" playing live is one thing, but recording a Bass and making it sound proper, it's a craft. There are hundred of threads out there, with the topic: "how to track + post process the bass, to make in sound good..." yet, there are many, many answers, such as what bass you are using, and what playing style as well as type of Music... Anyway, we are talking about top of the range instruments with Alembic, everyone knows it and I wouldn't worry about what people say on other forums. BTW: I have ordered my baseball cap, hopefully I'll get it before my Birthday, and I'll be proud to wear it, because in a way I have the Alembic sound at home, and I'll support it. So, if you see someone wearing one in London, it will probably be me! I went for brown btw... | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 17 Registered: 11-2006 |
I wouldn't worry about it. The prices are alittle outrageous though. I guess supply and demand. If more and more people can't aford them, their prices will go down. LG- Id get a baseball cap, but I HATE hats with a passion. Ill probably be ordering a shirt or something though. Atleast your lucky enough to be able to afford Alembic electronics. | ||
| 57basstra
Senior Member Username: 57basstra Post Number: 495 Registered: 4-2005 |
I have observed through the years the comparison at the top level of discussion in the never-ending bass wars is always (fill in the blank) vs Alembic. To me that tells the story. For years I wanted an Alembic, did not think I could justify buying one. I walked into a little out of the way Pawn Shop in the sticks and there is a wild looking '80s white with red striped Guild Burnside "Lance" offset Flying V bass with Alembic pickups at a bargain. I bought it and after playing it for a while I decided if a bass with Alembic pickups sounds like this -- close to the sound I had always wanted -- then an Alembic must be obtained. I got an Epic 6, then a Mark King 5 and then landed a Series 4. To each his (or her) own. I would say that many of the players who knock Alembics have never played Alembic, or played one extensively. Jordan, I'll wager you could swing an Epic with a bit of saving and I, among many I am sure, think they are very nice instruments. (Message edited by 57basstra on November 16, 2006) | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 212 Registered: 9-2005 |
Hmmm. Expensive? Yeah, sure, that's definitely true; but I prefer the word PRICELESS -it's more accurate. Yeah, the prices are high. The charge for ebony neck laminates is a lot, and the charge for coco bolo is more than other manufacturers, to be sure. But it really does come down to supply and demand. There just isn't anyone else out there -at least that I know of- that produces instruments of the same calibre. There are some makers that produce instruments that are close to Alembic quality; there are some that have produced INDIVIDUAL instruments that are comparable; but, overall, no one that I know of can match Alembic. Most of the "distinguished competition" that DOES come close clearly seems to have in fact been the result OF Alembic. And, hey, this is a good thing... more power to 'em, and to anyone who buys 'em. By all means, get what you want/can afford. I love Alembic. But, if there were another company out there that produced comparable instruments at a cheaper price, I'd buy THOSE. I'd have to. I'd be a fool not to. But there isn't. At least none that I know of. (And, obviously, I don't know everything, so maybe there is such a company that I don't know of. But I'm skeptical... I tend to think I would have most likely heard of them... unless they're either extremely new, or have a vested interested in keeping a low profile, and not acquiring a reputation...) In my opinion, based on my experience, the Europa-Class and Rogue-Class instruments are equal or superior to anything else out there. These are unsurpassed in quality -other than if you upgrade to Series... I've seen a FEW isolated examples of non-Alembics that I'd say are comparable to the Europas and Rogues... a FEW. That's all. And even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while... | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 213 Registered: 9-2005 |
Hmmm. Expensive? Yeah, sure, that's definitely true; but I prefer the word PRICELESS -it's more accurate. Yeah, the prices are high. The charge for ebony neck laminates is a lot, and the charge for coco bolo is more than other manufacturers, to be sure. But it really does come down to supply and demand. There just isn't anyone else out there -at least that I know of- that produces instruments of the same calibre. There are some makers that produce instruments that are close to Alembic quality; there are some that have produced INDIVIDUAL instruments that are comparable; but, overall, no one that I know of can match Alembic. Most of the "distinguished competition" that DOES come close clearly seems to have in fact been the result OF Alembic. And, hey, this is a good thing... more power to 'em, and to anyone who buys 'em. By all means, get what you want/can afford. I love Alembic. But, if there were another company out there that produced comparable instruments at a cheaper price, I'd buy THOSE. I'd have to. I'd be a fool not to. But there isn't. At least none that I know of. (And, obviously, I don't know everything, so maybe there is such a company that I don't know of. But I'm skeptical... I tend to think I would have most likely heard of them... unless they're either extremely new, or have a vested interested in keeping a low profile, and not acquiring a reputation...) In my opinion, based on my experience, the Europa-Class and Rogue-Class instruments are equal or superior to anything else out there. These are unsurpassed in quality -other than if you upgrade to Series... I've seen a FEW isolated examples of non-Alembics that I'd say are comparable to the Europas and Rogues... a FEW. That's all. But even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while... | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 214 Registered: 9-2005 |
Oops! | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 215 Registered: 9-2005 |
Oops! | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 216 Registered: 9-2005 |
Okay, double oops! Or triple, I guess. But one more thing. In my experience, Alembic basher/detracters/skeptics/put-downers illustrate what is called an inversely proportional relationship. The MORE they rag on Alembic, the less they know about Alembic. I wanted to become a bass player when I heard Stanley Clarke playing his Alembic. I didn't even know what Alembic was. But I heard Stanley playing his Alembic, and I was sold. I was in love. I wanted to sound like that. As a result, I gradually became educated about Alembics. I remember going to Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center as a teenager, and persuading the sales people to let me play a few of their Series I basses once or twice. But it took me a LONG time before I saved up and got an Alembic. I was very happy with my previous (non-Alembic) bass for many years. It was a VERY nice bass. (The specifics don't matter). But after I had my first Alembic for a few months... I let it go. It was a little sad. I'm a sappy sentimental guy in some ways. The instrument was wonderful and had served me well for many years. But it just didn't measure up. After I got my Alembic... I just didn't have any use for it -other than to keep it for sentimental reasons. And I'm not rich enough, nor do I have the space for that. Better to sell it to someone else who would appreciate it, so at least it could be played -instead of sitting around gathering dust, which is exactly what happened as soon as I got my Alembic. I couldn't afford an Alembic for MANY years. When I finally got it, it took some saving... and then some time to pay off the balance. I checked out a lot of basses before I got my first Alembic... and a lot of them were very nice. But none of them measured up to Alembic. Period. If they had, I'd have saved up for one of them instead... | ||
| inthelows
Junior Username: inthelows Post Number: 47 Registered: 11-2006 |
In 1986 while picking up a 5 string Rickenbacker I ordered (not all that cheap at the time)I played a maple top spoiler that was hanging on the wall with a price tag of $999.99. The neck was great, smooth and fast. The sound was huge! If I hadn't just bought that Ric I would have walked out with the spoiler. All things being equal, I agree with David. I finally own a maple top spoiler. Why now? It was that first impression. All these years later the memory was clear as a bell. I've owned dozens of models on my quest for the right look, the right sound, or because of the band or music you had to have that certain bass or guitar. Although It may be considered pricey by some and not others, it still comes down to you. What do you want? The name Alembic has been associated with some of the most fantastic artists of our time. Some of which their sound was in part a true combination of raw talent and the instrument used to define their trademark and signature sounds. There is no arguement that you get what you pay for. Sure the competition and the price wars will always be there. Someone has to pay for overhead, stock, manhours, DOING IT RIGHT. Not everyone can change a fuel injection system and I'm quite certain you won't walk into a Hummer dealership and walk out with a H3 for $14.00. Like the song said "You can't always get what you want, but sometimes you get what you need!" It still comes down to personal wants and tastes. If you want it bad enough you'll find a way. I personnally like the fact as a relatively new Alembic owner the people in the company answer questions and address issues themselves and do it quickly. I've been made to feel that I'm welcome, and one of the gang like they've known me from the begining of time. It's a nice feeling. If you look and watch like I did you might find something in your price range just like I did. You know something else, when hear talk, as in bad-mouthing anything it could be a simple green with envy. Let em talk......... Let's not talk about some people who may have worked for Alembic and have branched off on their own............ Happy hunting......... and long live Alembic.......NLP (Message edited by inthelows on November 16, 2006) | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 249 Registered: 3-2006 |
JSaylor, it's not that I am lucky really, I have been hunting like a wild man on the second hand market to get what I "wanted", I had to sell things to afford other things... I had to choose, and I chose what sounded good to me. We are talking 9 months of extreme intense intensity! And it's not finished... Most importantly, I don't own the instruments you saw on the photos, that's right, they are NOT mine until I paid my debts. So it is not luck, it is choice! That's what I chose, to borrow. At least I have the satisfaction to have experienced a nice feeling while playing through those instruments and the Alembic electronics/sound. As a result, at 35 (soon), I do not envy Stanley Clarke anymore, and I am happy with what I have. To sum it, I cannot afford Alembic electronics and PUs, believe me, I shouldn't even be on this forum as a matter of fact, I don't deserve it. I mean, each his/her own budget and finances, and it was a bit foolish of me to join this forum and discuss things that I cannot afford, and I know that. I belong to some other forums, talking with people in my situation maybe. This is my theory and the way I see it, and I don't mean to offend anyone in a similar situation to mine. | ||
| bigredbass
Senior Member Username: bigredbass Post Number: 1076 Registered: 9-2002 |
To each his own, and it does take all kinds to make a world. These arguments always remind me of the 'gee, my ZO6 Vette has all the performance of the Ferrari, and I saved $150,000.00!' After it's all said and done, a Mexican PBass would get the job done. But there always has to be a king of the hill to guage the rest of the world by. And until someone can demonstrate to me where anybody else has stepped up, there's no substitute at the top for Alembic. Go play all the (fill in the blank with your boutique builder du jour, complete with a hardware and electronics partslist from Stew Mac) you want, and have a nice day. Bring YOUR coco-topped, ebony thru-necked brand X to the gig, OK? What an amazing tone from those Barts . . . Besides, how often can you own a legend? J o e y (Message edited by bigredbass on November 16, 2006) | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 894 Registered: 10-2002 |
I can't access the original link. Can someone give a brief synopsis please? Graeme | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 895 Registered: 10-2002 |
I can't access the original link. Can someone give a brief synopsis please? Graeme | ||
| bracheen
Senior Member Username: bracheen Post Number: 1098 Registered: 11-2003 |
Graeme, it's the usual sour grapes discussion about how expensive Alembics are and all the other basses in the World are just as good. I find it amusing that this discussion even takes place. If these guys don't like Alembic and wouldn't have one on a silver platter then why waste so much energy trying to make that point. To me it sounds like "I really want an Alembic but can't afford one so I'll trash them instead, so there!" I can just picture some of these people sticking their tongues out while typing. Sam | ||
| ajdover
Senior Member Username: ajdover Post Number: 420 Registered: 11-2003 |
Most of the original thread dealt with how much Alembic charges for the same things others use, e.g., wood, hardware, etc. The basic premise is that every manufacturer uses the same wood, etc., so why does Alembic charge more than, say, Fender for swamp ash, or Fodera for Buckeye Burl? I can't comment as to the reason. I do know this - I visited the factory in person. These guys make their own tools. They handwire everything. Shaping is done by hand, as is finishing. Frets aren't put in by a machine, they're done by hand. All of this costs a lot of money. Some can pay it, some can't. So be it. Can you buy a bass for less that will bring you the same amount of pleasure and enjoyment? Sure. I guess for some of the problem is the inability to justify it, and that translates to what we've seen here - if one can't justify it, it must be overpriced, overrated, etc. There have been discussions that Alembic owners are hobbyists with money, and there are many here who fit that designation. However, there have been too many famous players past and present who played/still play Alembics for this moniker to accrue. Folks will buy what they like and can afford, period. I've repeatedly said that a bass, any bass, is only worth what someone's willing to pay. If an Alembic isn't worth it to other folks, fine. Buy and play what you like. For me and many others here, an Alembic is worth every penny. I'll continue to play and buy them, and the naysayers be damned. Alan | ||
| terryc
Member Username: terryc Post Number: 86 Registered: 11-2004 |
The are all talking crap..here is a story for you.. A 'friend'(no more due to personal infrigement in my husband/wife relationship) always ridiculed my 'coffee table' as he called it. He always went on about his fender jazz bass and how good it was!!!! The one day he asked to borrow my Alembic MK standard to use in a recording studio. He is one of theses guys who talks the talk..we call him 'trousers' because he talks through them. Obviously he was going to play in front of some pro musicians and wanted to impress. I told him to get lost, the only way my Alembic leaves the house is with me firmly attached to it and I added he should use his absolutley fantastic jazz bass since it was so good. Sorry but those who ridicule do not know what they are like and if they look life quality furniture then display them with pride in your home | ||
| terryc
Member Username: terryc Post Number: 87 Registered: 11-2004 |
The are all talking crap..here is a story for you.. A 'friend' always ridiculed my 'coffee table' as he called it. He always went on about his fender jazz bass and how good it was!!!! The one day he asked to borrow my Alembic MK standard to use in a recording studio. He is one of theses guys who talks the talk..we call him 'trousers' because he talks through them. Obviously he was going to play in front of some pro musicians and wanted to impress. I told him to get lost, the only way my Alembic leaves the house is with me firmly attached to it and I added he should use his absolutley fantastic jazz bass since it was so good. Sorry but those who ridicule do not know what they are like and if they look like quality furniture then display them with pride in your home | ||
| terryc
Member Username: terryc Post Number: 88 Registered: 11-2004 |
so good I sent it twice..dumb oh | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 874 Registered: 2-2006 |
I'm with Joey, "to each his own". To all those guys on that forum that were knocking Alembic I have but one piece of advice, "smoke less crack and play more bass(or guitar)". | ||
| keavin
Senior Member Username: keavin Post Number: 954 Registered: 12-2002 |
what most fail to remember is that alembic WAS THE FIRST totally Custom electric stereo instrument available in the early 70's/late 60's....so alembic started this whole trend of high-end electric guitars & all these other companies took note and followed their lead. & also alembic deserves all the credit for the High-end guitar market....but like the saying goes to each is own! | ||
| groovelines
Senior Member Username: groovelines Post Number: 409 Registered: 4-2003 |
I like my Alembic, it's the best bass I've ever owned, hands down. And for various reasons, I've also liked every bass I've ever owned, including the Korean-made, Fender knock-off that got me started 28 years ago. I've made a decision to play Alembic. I've made a decision to not let the reasoning of others bother me if they choose to disagree or outright dismiss me. "Mine" is the best for me, "yours" is the best for you. I prefer to leave it at that. Personaly, I'm not even going to get stirred up by this. And it doesn't do any good for "The Club" to go nuts with fits of indignation - unless you plan to do sometihng about it, as did Duncan. And if you do, Duncan's approach is the best - inoffensive and informative. The worst -there's nothing like a beligerant, foul-mouthed buffoon to proove the opposition's point. Terry's story is pretty funny. | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 875 Registered: 2-2006 |
Very well put Mike and I concur with you indubitably. Besides, I don’t know small enough words to argue with those guys.  | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 1775 Registered: 7-2004 |
I notice those guys in the other forum were knocking Alembic BASSES. Not a single negative word about GUITARS! Guitarists are obviously a kinder, gentler, more enlightened breed! LOL Bill, tgo - SIESTBMOBS (sometimes I even start to believe my own BS!) | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 876 Registered: 2-2006 |
Bill, you're tough man! | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 18 Registered: 11-2006 |
Bill, Most guitarists I know go for the "classic" market. That may be why you don't see any Alembic guitar bashing. Their all in love with their Les Pauls and Stratocasters. | ||
| lidon2001
Advanced Member Username: lidon2001 Post Number: 250 Registered: 4-2005 |
Wow - another thread on the same topic: Here I believe my Alembics are a great value for the expensive price. I am glad to support such a company with my hard earned money. We have people paying $2-3k for a Sony PS3 that will be obsolete in 3 years and tossed. My Alembics will still be going long after. T (oops! I didn't mean to circle it back here...) (Message edited by lidon2001 on November 17, 2006) | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 877 Registered: 2-2006 |
Right on Tom, and we don't have to camp out 3 days for an Alembic. | ||
| chuck
Junior Username: chuck Post Number: 27 Registered: 3-2005 |
with alembic you get what you pay for and then some. i have no problem with those that charge less. they know what there stuff is worth.--------Chuck | ||
| hifiguy
Junior Username: hifiguy Post Number: 26 Registered: 10-2006 |
You either intuitively grasp the Alembic state of mind or you don't. Many don't. Some people don't get the Ferrari ethos either. More's the pity for them. As for comments there that Alembics do not play or sound better than any other top-quality basses, these are from people who can't tell the difference between silk and burlap or who possess defective senses. No point in arguing with 'em. Some of these characters would happily lay down $10K on an old Jazz just because it's old. Leo may have invented the electric bass guitar but the Wickershams have perfected it. Paul (just sayin') | ||
| oujeebass
Member Username: oujeebass Post Number: 86 Registered: 10-2002 |
Alembics are magical. I remember the first time I ran across one. There was something about it. On my first chance, I got one. Even if it is a seemingly lowly Epic,it still has that something about it,and it plays and sounds so good. I can imagine that Alembics have the same effect on owners and non owners alike. You can end up not thinking straight if you don't accept the fact that these a great intruments,and that you should leave it at that. (Message edited by oujeebass on November 17, 2006) | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 881 Registered: 2-2006 |
WOW, this got reeaaall deep. My 2 cents worth, a good player will sound good on ANY brand of instrument, a "not so good" player will sound "not so good" on any brand... Is Alembic the only good instrument out there?, NO but it is what, I assume, we all here prefer. Synopsis; It’s not what you play but how you play. The question being is your playing up to par with am upper scale (i.e. Alembic) instrument. SO, with that out of the way….”how ‘bout them Cowboys”. Much ADO over nothing | ||
| dannobasso
Advanced Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 398 Registered: 3-2004 |
I agree with the mythic moniker. After hearing RTF I was forever changed. The only model I could swing was an 83 Koa Spoiler. I got it home and put on the Romantic Warrior lp. I could get some of that tone and response. (esp. on bends and vibrato) As time went on my collection grew due to love and sacrifice of other things. Didn't get married so the prices I paid continued to go up. (with no senior mgmt. to object) I have always received awe and flack about my precious children but that's not why I play them. Great instruments made by a great company that have treated me with great care, grace and generousity. When I lost my Mom and had her name inlayed into the custom Excel I had on order at the time, the care and sympathy Susan, Mica and the whole staff showed me went beyond any expectation I could have entertained. I have 14 Santa Rosa children because of their quality, the joy I get when I play them, and the great emotional attachment I have for the Wickershams and the artisans that they share their dream with. They demonstrate time and again that they are deserving of the price of their instruments and the patronage of those who "get it". | ||
| hifiguy
Junior Username: hifiguy Post Number: 27 Registered: 10-2006 |
I fully agree with Wade's comments. There is something magical about an Alembic. For some reason his comments reminded me of the topic of Kirlian photography. It is as though those attuned to the Alembic mindset can see and feel things about the instruments that mind-blinds can't. Can't let Danno's comments go by w/o adding my own "they went the extra mile" story. A few months after I bought my SCS the neck went all wonky in the low humidity of a Minnesota autumn. When I called the factory my call was immediately directed to Mica (!). She took ten+ minutes to chat, explaining the effect of humidity on Alembic necks and said, most charmingly, that "the wood isn't used to being a bass yet" and requested that I send the bass back for a heat reset of the neck. I did, and my bass promptly reappeared with a better case than the one I'd sent it in, the tools Guitar Center had misplaced and an extra set of strings. Try getting that kind of service from anyone else, or from the pirating vintage instrument dealers. Long live Alembic and Alembic Nation! Paul | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 755 Registered: 11-2004 |
I guess I'm lucky in several ways. 1) I have loved Alembics for a long time. 2) I finally got one and then another. 3) Nobody busts my butt about playing one. I'm kind of the bassist that local folks call first when they have a recording project or need a sub bassist for a gig. I've never had anyone ask "Don't you have a Fender that you can bring?" First off, I don't think anyone had heard of Alembic until they asked what I was playing. Only one person has asked me what they cost. He said "Wow" more because he was surprised than impressed (impressing him wasn't my point anyway). I like to just go in and play. If people like it, fine. If they don't, well that's too bad. I am who I am and I play what I play. If someone told me to bring a Fender I would just say "I don't own one. Do you still want me to do the gig?" If they said "No." then I guess I would just leave. I have never had anyone complain about my sound. Last summer I played a gig with some guys (one is Laytonco in the club) warming up for a very good band. The bassist said "Nice bass" to me. We talked bass for awhile and he said that his bass is "just a Fender P-bass." I definitely wasn't trying to one-up anyone. He's the only person that ever seemed to know anything about Alembics. Brands can be like religions. Some people are so into their own thing and so defensive about it, there is no point in arguing with them. If people want to get on a bass forum and slam Alembic then I guess that is their right. However, it really makes me wonder why they are so passionate about something they say they would never want to own. Rich | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 250 Registered: 3-2006 |
Hence my quote: "Only dead fish follow the stream!" And as some of you here mentioned Fender, I, never understood how someone would want to pay some $10K for a "rotten" bass, really, I'll give an example: one of my friend had a US Fender P 1979, nothing real "vintage" here, I played it, sure enought it sounded nice and I really like the tone, you see, I ma bass lover and I can appreciate the different sound that different bass can give you. BUT, I had a close look at his bass; - The neck moved, you could physically move it because the wood thread was worn, really bad, the bolts were "loose"! - The frets were so bad that it needed a serious re-fret (too late for a crowning...) - The finger board looked + felt BAD! really worn too - The tuners were rusty, so were the screws! - The bridge, saddles and screws were rusty too! - The finish on the body was gone/looked awful... Then, I said to him: "My God, this is what everyone is after?" Well, I started to realized that this whole Fender vintage "snobbery" was a total joke. Unless you are a fanatic or collector, and want an instrument that was played by Jamerson or Jaco... I really don't understand how one could pay some much money for such a piece of junk! Why? Because by the time you rstore the instruments... there is nothing Vintage left!!! LOL + LOL X 10... = MASSIVE LOL! Anyway, who is the Boss? (after me ) It's Stanley, he will teach a lesson to every bassist out there... What does it play? Alembic, and nothing but Alembic, and that's probably why 80% of the Alembic players out there are playing Alembic. Period. As for wanting the Fender sound P or J, anyone can afford it, so I'd rather spend the money on the more Special Instrument (in my case it was second hand parts, as well some new PUs), and if I really wanted a J or P bass, there are millions of cheap copies out there that would satisfy me. I am sorry if what I am going to say is going to sound a bit rude, but lately, when play with my customized Arialembic LG MK2, it nearly gives me powerful "Er*ctions!" | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 19 Registered: 11-2006 |
LG, "vintage instruments" are just that. They get beaten up. Some say the vintage tone is due to the lacquer/ worn off and allows the wood to vibrate freely giving it a better tone. I wouldn't go spending the price they go for on ebay for one, but they sure are nice. Rich, Your completely right, brands are like religions. Take here for example. Most people here think Alembic is the only way to go, best etc. I think its all opinion. If a vintage Fender sounds better to you, then go for it. For example, Flea from the Chilli peppers uses a vintage Fender. Thats his sound. Les Claypool uses a Carl Tompson as his bass, thats his sound. Wouldn't music be boring if everyone used the same brand/sound? Paul, Whats the scs? | ||
| the_8_string_king
Advanced Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 218 Registered: 9-2005 |
Most likely either Stanley Clark Signature or Stanley Clark Standard (model Alembic bass), Jordan. | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 251 Registered: 3-2006 |
Jsaylor, for instance, you didn't like the Alembic 10 and you find it ugly, fine... Now I am saying to you that I find those battered Fender ugly, period. I know exactly what vintage instruments are, and if I had all the money in the world, I would still go for the cleanest I could find, it would get played, and not hung on a wall. I can't see how one could enjoy playing a vintage rotten instrument, once again, by the time you restore it, it's not true vintage anymore... Do you get me? Now, on the subject, wether it vibrates or not, that's what you heard or read..., fine. I'll go beyond that; if it's true, great! because once again, as I already said, I don't like lacquer, I much prefer an oil finish, to me wood should feel like wood not plastic, so it suits me fine. I wouldn't find any visual pleasure looking at a old battered Fender, if I had one, I'd remove the lacquer completely. And of course, it would be boring if everyone drove Ferrari or wore Rolexes... same goes for anything else... For the sake of socializing, do you have a bass btw? what make/model is it, and what would be your personnel comment on it? Are you considering an Alembic? | ||
| bob
Senior Member Username: bob Post Number: 730 Registered: 11-2002 |
(took me too long to figure out what to say, and other posts have snuck in... I'm responding here to the comments a few posts up from danno and hifiguy) "Santa Rosa children". Well, I think that pretty much covers it, along with the "something magical" comment. I'm not in a position to compare to a lot of other manufacturers, having only owned two prior basses and one fairly nice guitar. But I believe I can recognize quality workmanship, and certainly personal attention, and the people at Alembic simply cannot be beat. Others may come close, and perhaps for slightly less money, but when you consider the full package - from woodworking through electronics and full design consultation - well, who else really knows all this stuff, and will deal with you on such a personal basis to get it right, just for you? Though I never intended to share this story, danno's comment pushed me over the edge. About four weeks ago, I had my (second) hernia repaired. Very routine procedure, nothing to be concerned about, but it was a good excuse to update my will, which was about ten years out of date. Looking around - my house and furnishings, savings, some nice photography equipment, etc. - there was only one, single thing that I felt was truly special, close to irreplaceable, and of unique value. So I talked to Susan about it, and the only odd thing in my will is that it leaves my Alembic bass to the people that made it. I was trying to be practical, suggesting they could sell it again, or reuse the electronics in another instrument (and maybe recover some of what they lost...), but as Susan said, "No, we'd probably just keep it. You want it to come home". And that pretty much nails it. Santa Rosa children, indeed. -Bob | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 20 Registered: 11-2006 |
LG, Yes I am a bass player. I own a Gibson Thunderbird. And yes, Beat up fenders are ugly, very ugly. If i were to spend that much, Id want it to look good, but I guess when you listen to music, you don't really care how the instrument looks. I do plan on eventually getting an Alembic, but I'm not rich or anything, so I might not ever get one. (Message edited by jsaylor on November 17, 2006) | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 253 Registered: 3-2006 |
Jsaylor, I heard good things about them, I never played one. Would you have a little MP3 of yours that you could send me maybe? Yes, I agree, when listening to music, if it sounds good, it doesn't matter what instrument it was and wether it looked good or not. Personally, I really hate the look of an instrument when it start to look scruffy because the lacquer start to come off, it's like a car (I don't have one thought), it could look great, but have a poor engine, or vice versa... to me a bass guitar as to look and feel nice, it's not psychologic at all, it's more because I am very neat and take pride in anything I do or feedle with, it has to look neat, and the best it can. Fo instance, my "Arialembic LG MK2" looks good (to me) on the photos, but really, there are places where the lacquer as come of, and few dings as well... and I really look forward to the day (if possible) were the lacquer will be completely removed, and then reshaped/carved to some extend, then it will lighter as well, and would love to do some artistic carving on the body too... I hope that it will happen, will invest in a router + bits, and will make it look to my liking. | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 21 Registered: 11-2006 |
LG, I agree. I like having my bass with a nice finish aswell. I polish mine after everytime I use it. Heres a clip http://media.putfile.com/1965-Gibson-Thunderbird-II Not mine, but it sounds kinda close. Mine sounds deeper, probably because it has more mass due to it being a 5 string. Extremely good sound, especially for under $2000. Ill try to get a recording of mine sometime. | ||
| pauldo
Junior Username: pauldo Post Number: 11 Registered: 6-2006 |
On the original posted link thread, one of the replies mentioned that an Alembic is a life time investment. I agree. My 84 Distillate will be handed down to my son when I pass. The price was high but just the tonal variety that can be achieved from the instrument makes it extremely versatile. It also helped me that Ralph Hanzel had a convenient layaway program :-o | ||
| 57basstra
Senior Member Username: 57basstra Post Number: 499 Registered: 4-2005 |
Olie, you think your 'Boys' could use this guy against Mr P this week?  T for Texas T for Tennesse's Too Tall Jones. | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 1777 Registered: 7-2004 |
If we're hijacking this thread in this direction, I have but one comment: GO CAL! Beat the University of Spoiled Children! (USC) Bill, tgo | ||
| hb3
Intermediate Member Username: hb3 Post Number: 185 Registered: 2-2005 |
Flea's sound is a vintage Fender? Uh, anyone want to break it to him? | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 22 Registered: 11-2006 |
Said in a interview he only uses vintage instruments now, and hes always using a fender. | ||
| hifiguy
Junior Username: hifiguy Post Number: 28 Registered: 10-2006 |
Stanley Clarke Standard, jsaylor. One of the two things I would rescue if my house were on fire, the other being my cat Max. | ||
| jbybj
Junior Username: jbybj Post Number: 29 Registered: 6-2006 |
What I fail to understand is this focus/obsession with MONEY. As your life flashes before your eyes you can: A) be thankful for the few extra thousand you have in your account, or the few thousand less in debt you are. Or B) remember all the quality time you spent with your instrument. Nice things are infinitely superior to money. Besides, there are those who are certain that the afterlife, Heaven, is an extension of your life in this world. Hmmmmm. Eternity with an Alembic? You make the call. Peace, James And as for Flea, what he chooses to play is inconsequential, the Chili Peppers music never fails to irritate and annoy me. | ||
| dannobasso
Advanced Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 399 Registered: 3-2004 |
Flea may not remember the using of an Alembic on several recordings and then asking Susan for an endorsement deal of several free (between 5 and 10 if I recall ) instruments and being told no, then going to Modulous to get an endorsement, then using a vintage Fender then going back to Modulous. I would hazzard a guess that he still plays his Alembic at home. Not that we really care. Whatever any artist does that is good for the promotion of their band is what they should do. Ads generate interest, that generates sales and so on and so on. | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 23 Registered: 11-2006 |
Danno, Never knew that. Thanks for the info. But back to my original point, some people think their too expensive, and there for buy a cheeper bass or guitar and build their sound up on that. Look at Jimi Hendrix, He used from time to time Gibsons and Fenders primarily. He could have afforded an Alembic, but, that wasn't his sound. Same goes for alot of professional musicians. However if money is the only reason you use a certian instrument, that your a sell out. To sum it up- Use what sounds best to you, regardless of hype, cost, or endorsements. What others consider the "best" isn't always the best. Best sounding is an opinion. | ||
| chuck
Junior Username: chuck Post Number: 28 Registered: 3-2005 |
Hendricks may have owned alembic's.But if you had ever seen him in concert or on tape you will notice he likes to set his guitars on fire or destroy them in some other manner during live performances.therefore he may have left the good stuff at home.-----chuck | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 24 Registered: 11-2006 |
Chuck, When they sold his guitars their weren't any Alembics. And for him to have something and not use it is dumb. Like ownimg a car and never using it. | ||
| jubeas3eyes
Junior Username: jubeas3eyes Post Number: 44 Registered: 1-2006 |
Ok I'll throw in my 1 cent. Do I think that Alembics are overpriced? To be honest, yes I do. Do I think that the epic I bought used was worth the money. I most certainly do, it's the nicest bass I've ever played. While I believe that Alembics are over priced I also believe that they are the nicest basses available. So while I don't think I would ever drop 20,000 on a custom Alembic I would probably drop 3000 for a series 1/2. | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4546 Registered: 5-2002 |
Bob; Cool!!! | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 882 Registered: 2-2006 |
Sho' you right David. The 'boys could sure use Ed or hope abouit the "manster", Randy White. | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 254 Registered: 3-2006 |
Jsaylor, I had a problem with reading/playing the file, I am on OSX... To "persevere", I looked at the source of the html page and tracked + downloaded the file, the file in question, wasn't encoded properly to be cross platform (PC/Mac)... it had in fact double extension, that's right: ".mp3" followed by ".wmv"... So, I simply removed the .wmv at the end, and it played OK. That is a good tip for you guys, in case you encouter a similar problem. To make it a bit more "confusing", the file played ok with the free + great player called: "VLC", but as I said, it wouldn't open with Quicktime or Windows Media Player on the OSX/Mac. We learn something everyday, don't we... So, without being technical and why it happened and how to make it not happen... One can always download + install the VLC player, or change the file extension at the end (at "first" level, because it can deeper then that...). ----------- Regarding the this thread, again, I like many basses, and I agree with Jsaylor, i.e: Jamerson sounds great on his P Bass, Jaco sounds great on hiss Jazz, and Mr Clarke sounds great on his Alembic... LG sounds great on his Arialembic and so on... Again, it's like Rolex vs Timex or Seiko watches, both give you an accurate time, and each his/her own budget and preferences. I enjoy participating in this thread and tell what I think, and personally, someone saying that Alembic is overpriced, it's like saying a Ferrari or a Porsche is overpriced... not everyone can drive/own such cars, or wear such watches... and so on... For instance, the Movie Stars, wear Gucci, Armani and so on, because they can afford it... I wear cheap stuff, and that's life, and I am happy with it... If I could afford, sure enough, I will look after myself too - while not forgetting the other ones who cannot afford to eat! ----------- Talking about life after life, yes, I believe, that there is a life (or more) after this one, for instance, we believe in things that we cannot see; i.e Love, Hate, Passion, Envy, Jealousy, Ignorance... We cannot always see it, but we can surely FEEL it... I do! So what does it mean to us? It means that if we all believe in things that we cannot see, why can't we believe in things that are going to happen after life? We can't see that, can we? But somehow, if you have faith, you feel it, and you don't worry about it anymore... Have all a great Sunday, LG | ||
| lg71
Advanced Member Username: lg71 Post Number: 255 Registered: 3-2006 |
Sorry - double post, the server(s) or software I guess... (Message edited by LG71 on November 19, 2006) | ||
| rockbassist
Member Username: rockbassist Post Number: 96 Registered: 8-2005 |
During the past 30 years, I have owned basses from many different manufacturers. Nothing has even come close to the feel and tone of my Alembic. Yes they are expensive but it's pretty simple, you get what you pay for. If you don't like the price, don't buy it. | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 1135 Registered: 6-2002 |
I would respectfully like to ask the person who thought Jimi Hendrix had the option to play Alembic about the chronology of things. Hendrix died in ...? The first musical instrument built by Alembic dates ...? (Gosh, aren't we getting old.) | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 1779 Registered: 7-2004 |
Adriaan: You're not thinking outside the box. As everyone knows, Hendrix was Superman. Therefore, if he wanted to, he could easily have flown very fast around the earth in the direction of its rotation until he flew into the future where he could easily have obtained an Alembic and brought it back to his own time by flying very fast around the earth in the counter direction of the earth's rotation. So there! You want further proof that Alembics suck? None of the following played them: Django Reinhardt, Buddy Holly, Charlie Christian, Charlie Jewish, Theodore Roosevelt, Mahatma Ghandi, Sam Spade, Diver Dan, Ed Sullivan, Crusader Rabbit ... the list is endless. LOL Bill, tgo | ||
| oujeebass
Member Username: oujeebass Post Number: 87 Registered: 10-2002 |
Hendrix wasn't one to worry about what kind of guitar he was playing,just as long as it stayed in tune. I do feel confident that he would have been a prolific user of technology if he had lived,which would have included Alembic. I wonder what he would think about what we have available to us today. | ||
| precarius
Intermediate Member Username: precarius Post Number: 107 Registered: 11-2005 |
Bill- I actually think Theodore Roosevelt had an Alembic. He just kept it hidden from his wife. | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 25 Registered: 11-2006 |
Yeah Hendrix died right when Alembics were coming out, but I was just going for an example. Alembics don't suck, ibpesq(I take it that was scarcasm?), But not many high profile players use Alembics. I love that Alembic doesn't endorse anyone though. The point I was trying to make it, best sounding is an opinion. Eric Clapton could have used an Alembic, but decided that the Stratocaster was his sound. Just because its regarded as better doesn't make it better. Music is an opinion. I could say punk is better than metal am I right or wrong, no, just different. Look at Jean Baudin for example, He owns an Alembic, but his favrote bass is his Ken Lawrence. Thats just his preference. Now some of you may think that im "hateing" on Alembic, but I'm not. I really like what they stand for as a company and If I ever get the money, I'll purchase one. However I'm poor so that may not happen anytime soon. | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 760 Registered: 11-2004 |
Back to artists (Flea was mentioned) who say "I'll endorse you if you give me a stable of instruments." I don't blame Susan for telling him "No." The way I heard the story about Flea's '61 Jazz (I think) is that he was looking for a vintage Jazz and a fan presented him with the '61. So he didn't have to pay for it either. I'm sure he would have bought it if he had found it first. He probably isn't hurting for bucks. Back to Hendrix and endorsement, give me a bunch of free stuff, type of people. I read a story that Jim Marshall (amp people) told. He said that people were constantly telling him "I'm the best guitarist in the world. Give me an amp and you can use my name." He said that Hendrix (unknown at the time) came in and said "I would like to buy one of your amps." Humble as can be. He wasn't looking for a handout just a sound. Rich | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 1780 Registered: 7-2004 |
Jordan: I guess you haven't been around these here parts long enough to have developed a taste for my admittedly slightly twisted brand of humor. Let me put it this way - Alembics suck so much that I own the following guitars: a '76 Series I, '83 Electrum, a Custom Further still under construction, as well as a highly modified Fernandes Masterhand with Alembic pickups and electronics, an Optek Fretlight Telecaster modded with Alembic pickups/electronics, and am currently in the process of installing Alembic pickups/electronics into a Fender Strat XII. Oh yea, I also use an SF-2 in my rig and have been playing around with an F-2B. I wish all my other equipment "sucked" as much as Alembic! LOL Bill, the guitar one | ||
| chuck
Junior Username: chuck Post Number: 31 Registered: 3-2005 |
Appoligies if my statement caused any discontent out there,It was ment to be spectulation only.---------chuck | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 26 Registered: 11-2006 |
Chuck, Sorry if my tone came off wrong. -Jordan Lbpesq, Wow, how can you afford all that? (Message edited by jsaylor on November 19, 2006) | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 589 Registered: 6-2002 |
My first ever Alembic was a '99 fretless Walnut Excel 4. I bought it brand new for $1500. At the time, I was shopping around for a fretless 4 when I stumbled upon it. I was blown away by EVERYTHING about it and I couldn't believe that this much Bass was selling so cheap. I kinda went nuts after that and bought every Alembic I stumbled upon since. I bought most of them as my dealer was liquidating his stock. Mostly under $2000.00 for Excels (4 & 5 strings) and a couple Essences. I have a few for wich I paid full current price. I love them all and I have no regrets. Barring any unforseen financial emergency, I would never consider selling them. With the current prices however, I remember something an old friend and mentor told me once, "Never get rid of something you can't replace". | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 590 Registered: 6-2002 |
It's kinda funny to think that my first and last Alembics were both fretless 4 string Excels; '99 Walnut ($1499.99) and '03 Vermillion (liquidated at $1899.99). I puchased it last fall '05. I haven't seen any Alembics there since. They're still my favorite Basses. | ||
| bigideas
Member Username: bigideas Post Number: 100 Registered: 1-2004 |
Just a note about Jean Baudin. Unless he's recently taken it back to stock, his Epic has had it's electronics replaced with EMG. While i realize EMG's are prefered by some, not having Alembic electronics in it does somewhat defeat the purpose of having an Alembic. I'm not saying he'd switch to Alembics if it had original electronics, but who knows. Also, considering how high Alembic prices are, imagine the cost of a 12 string fan-fretted one. | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 1782 Registered: 7-2004 |
Jordan: You ask "how can you afford all that?" Working hard for many years and keeping my eyes open for bargains. For example, I recently found an Epic 5 with superb flame walnut top for only $650 on craigslist. All it needed was to have the pickup leads reversed and a good cleaning. I passed it on to the bass player in my band at the same price as I've always wanted to hear him on an Alembic. The Custom Further is my 50th B-day present to myself which should arrive before my 52nd b-day. As for number of Alembics, I'm just a piker compared to Rami, Danno, and some of the others around here. But give me some time. I suspect this is a lifelong addiction! LOL Bill, tgo | ||
| jsaylor
Junior Username: jsaylor Post Number: 27 Registered: 11-2006 |
lbpesq, Ill have to look on craiglist. Thats an aswome deal. bigideas, Like I said earlier, different people like the sound of different things. Maybe Jean didn't like the Alembic sound. | ||
| tbrannon
Advanced Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 239 Registered: 11-2004 |
Baudin's bass had the EMG's in it when he bought it. http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showpost.php?p=3361157&postcount=5 | ||
| dannobasso
Senior Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 402 Registered: 3-2004 |
The addiction is real but some of us don't have the obligations that you family men do. I never dreamed I would have aquired so many great instruments, new and used. Life is so short. Do what will bring you joy without causing problems. For me, i have GAS several times a year. How bad would it be if Alembic did financing like GC and ASH? I'd get that series 2 I tells ya! In keeping with the origional thread topic: Fogit about da hatahs on da level42 forum. i do have some sympathy for our EU bruddahs. Alembics are more dear, dere. (vat and all) Get what you want and want what you get. For me, Alembic is my choice for basses and pre's. Happy birthday Bill, may you have many more years and Alembics. | ||
| jlpicard
Senior Member Username: jlpicard Post Number: 456 Registered: 7-2002 |
All I can say is; I have been playing bass a long time( started in '69), owned many basses. Seldom has anyone taken note of the tone of my basses. Started playing Alembics: Consistent compliments on the tone of my bass, and not just from musicians. I mean, the sound of these basses really turns heads. With many musicians I have played with, who are probably used to hearing mostly Fenders, once they hear an Alembic it's like their minds are open to what a bass can really sound like.Weird, People seem to take notice more than I would have ever expected. To me that says it all! |
