| Author | Message | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 76 Registered: 1-2007 |
Would somebody give me some input on the pick-up select switch that comes stock on the Series II. I think that I would rather have a variable control that I could dial rather than a three position switch. Could somebody give me some input on their experience with that? Thanks, Paul | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 519 Registered: 9-2005 |
Series II instruments come standard with 8 controls: each pickup has 3 controls (an individual volume, low-pass filter, and continueously variable Q -CVQ- controls); and then there is a master volume, and a 4 position pickup selector (neck/both/bridge/standby). | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 77 Registered: 1-2007 |
Hey Mark, you read my mind. I almost asked if you were out there to help me. I know that they come standard with this 4 position switch but I would rather have a dial where I could blend the two pickups right where I want them. Do you know if they can put me a dial like that? Thanks, Paul | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 78 Registered: 1-2007 |
By the way, I thought it was a three position, but thanks. | ||
| tbrannon
Advanced Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 374 Registered: 11-2004 |
Paul, I'm guessing that all my raving about the pan control via our emails has brought up a few questions... I know that there were a few threads in the past year that discussed this- I'll do a search and see what I can find for you. There are certainly two camps on this- some guys love the pan, others prefer the seperate volumes. Here is one another one (Message edited by tbrannon on April 17, 2007) (Message edited by tbrannon on April 18, 2007) | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 520 Registered: 9-2005 |
I'm interpreting your question to mean you're expressing a concern about your ability to mix the sound from your pickups. If so, you need have no concern, as the Series II setup give you COMPLETE control and mixing capacity. The pickup selector allows you to quickly and easily decide whether you're using only one or the other pickup -or both. When you're using both, you can dial in any combination of mix that you want with the individual volumes... and you also have a master volume that allows you to increase/decrease the overall volume. Conventional wisdom/consensus seems to be that this is the ultimate arrangement... although not everyone is convinced. A topic that has been debated at length on more than one occaission is the benefits... pros/cons of the 2 (and 3) volume setup vs. a single volume and pan/blend control. One such thread can be found in the "FAQ and Must Reads" section at the very top of the main "Alembic Club" page. (Above the "Alembic Basses and Guitars" section you're now in.) Go there, open "Must reads", and scroll to the bottom and open "Volume/Volume vs. Volume/Pan. But I've seen at least one lengthier thread elsewhere, where some of the resident techno-geeks (no insult intended, guys) -notably the clearly knowledgeable David Fung- have shared their thoughts on the subject. I've seen at least two Alembic Series instruments for which the owners elected -for whatever reason(s)- to eliminate the pickup selector and go for a more simple setup. I know I've seen at least one Series II bass, and one Series I bass that eliminated the pickup selector. Somewhere on this site is a picture of a Series I bass that has just 4 knobs (individual filters, a master volume, and a balance control) and 2 3-position Q switches. And there is another Series II bass that has just 6 controls: a master volume, balance, individual filters and CVQs for each pickup. I recall the owner stating he preferred the simplicity of that setup. I'll take a quick look, and add links if I can find either or both of these examples. Of course, only you could say if you would prefer this setup over the standard arrangement. But I've never seen a Series II owner convey any dissatisfaction over their control over their instrument. The standard Series II setup is generally regarded as the ultimate -so I'm sure you have nothing to worry about. Of course, Mica and/or Susan could answer any further questions in this area, and probably give you info about the two instruments I mentioned -in the event you want info on them. Mark | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 79 Registered: 1-2007 |
Wow tb, great, you are fast. I have to run out the door for a hour then I'll be back and read those. Thanks,, P | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 521 Registered: 9-2005 |
Hey Paul, I found the two instruments I was referring to. The first one is in the Custom Archives... it's "Autumn's Delight". Here's a link: http://www.alembic.com/info/fc_rod.html You can see this is a Series I bass -with a master volume and a balance control substituted instead of the standard individual volume arrangement. Presumably the owner preferred this arrangement. The second example is in "Showcase." I couldn't quite figure out how to do a link to it... but if you just go to "Showcase", and go to "Custom Basses", and then open up -currently at the bottom of the list- "Series II in Quilted Coco Bolo"... you can SEE this example for yourself. As you can see, the owner of this most awesome Series II bass decided to eliminate the pickup selector and individual volumes in favor of the more simple arrangement of one single (master) volume and a balance/pan control. If I understand you correctly, this seems to be what you're expressing an interest in. If so, you can use this as a frame of reference. Hope this is helpful to you, and again, I apologize again for inducing you to worry before with my unfounded concerns regarding the additional mass of Ebony neck laminates. And once again, your neck looks really awesome!!! Take care, Paul. Sincerely, Mark the "8-String King" PS, if memory serves, I think you're getting LEDs on the front and rear -with dimmer switches...? So that would be an extra control or two... but if it happens to be the case that you prefer the simplified arrangement of a single master volume and a blend control, then the additional dimmer switches would just put you back to the standard 8 controls (assuming you get dimmers for BOTH front laser AND side LEDs) of the Series II. And you could still have space for bass and/or treble knobs and/or toggles -if you so desired. I think -as I recall- you'd decided AGAINST having the EQ controls on top of the Series II controls (and that's fine with me, of course, get what's good for YOU). But I will just add, something that didn't occur to me before -when I previously offered you advice/input on/in this area- is that you might consider (IF you were interested) getting a PAIR of bass control KNOBS and a PAIR of treble control TOGGLES... (to minimize space). Blah, blah, blah, hope this has been helpful, and not irritating... (or at least, MORE helpful than irritating -if both...!) Take care, Paul. | ||
| terryc
Intermediate Member Username: terryc Post Number: 130 Registered: 11-2004 |
I own a Mk bass which only has the pan, works fine for me, the more elaborate set up on the series II I would love to try, I run the pa on stage so to me that series II setup is like a mixing desk on your bass, each pu has it's own channel so you definitley don't get that muddiness with a passive set up. The great thing about the series II set up(I guess since I have never tried one) is that you could set one pu for the usual bass work, and the other for solos or other chunkier sound and choose between them at the flick of a switch..great idea.. Pity the MK cannot be upgraded or can it??? | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 1409 Registered: 6-2002 |
By the way, some older packages (like the Distillate and Spoiler) have only the four-way switch and a master volume. Some guys have no problem with that limitation, but I had mine replaced with a pan control - it gives you lots of useful in-between positions. IMO, a pan control is easier to handle than two volumes, but there is some debate whether you can get specific sounds with two volumes that you cannot reproduce with a pan control. I wouldn't be surprised if that works the other way around too. | ||
| s_wood
Advanced Member Username: s_wood Post Number: 241 Registered: 5-2002 |
Paul: All of my custom Series basses have a pan control and master volume instead of a pickup selector and individual pickup volumes. Here's an example: http://alembic.com/club/messages/411/25330.html?1171334713 The used Series basses I've picked up along the way all have the standard pickup selector plus 2 volumes arrangement. Of course, I love them all and they all sound great, so you really can't make a bad choice in this regard. Personally, I think Adriaan has it just right - the pan plus master volume arrangement is easier to handle, and it makes it especially easy to change the volume on the fly without changing the tone. Similarly, the pan control allows for varying the tone quickly, whereas I find the 2 volume/pickup selector setup to require 2 or 3 hand movements to accomplish the same thing. It's all personal preference, bro. That's what Alembic is all about. | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 522 Registered: 9-2005 |
Thanks for posting that link, Steve, I'd seen that gorgeous maple Series Europa of yours before, but didn't remember where it was. Quite a beauty. Hey Paul, another thing that you could consider -to my knowledge, no one has ever done this before- would be to get them to ADD a pan/balance control to the standard Series II setup... and a 2-position toggle to CHOOSE whether you have a volume/balance OR master/individual volume(s) setup. Of course, it's more likely you'd just prefer one or the other... but it's another option you could consider/ask about -if so inclined. If I had the money for my ultimate Series bass, I'd ask about this... might be cool to have the option of doing it either way. In general, I also prefer the simplicity of a single volume and a balance control. I've asked Mica for a quote for the "prep for Series I" option for my Custom-in-progress -and depending on price, I might switch to Signature electronics and get the prep for Series I. If/when I were to (then) go ahead and get the Series I upgrade, I'd likely go for the simplified master volume/balance setup -like Steve. | ||
| dtrice
Junior Username: dtrice Post Number: 40 Registered: 10-2006 |
I'm planning on a future Series Bass, but am inexperienced with them. So, pardon what may a silly question, but what is "prep for Series I" you mentioned mean? I'm trying to learn as much about Alembic products, but it is hard without any dealers within a few hundred miles. There are at least two forum members in my area, but I haven't been able to actually test drive a Series. Didn't mean to change the subject. | ||
| crgaston
Advanced Member Username: crgaston Post Number: 367 Registered: 11-2005 |
Daniel, the "prep for series" option means they build the body big enough, pre-rout the insides, and (I think) go ahead and rout the humcanceller and install a dummy. That way you can upgrade the electronics at a later date when you have a few more thousand bucks. | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 80 Registered: 1-2007 |
Hi Mark and everybody, thanks for responding so much!. Unfortunately I am stuck at work here as our helper called in sick so I haven't been able to read everything and spend time with you. Mark, I was able to read some of yours last night and very helpful but I will read more in a little while and get back with you all. Thanks friends, Aloha, i ahui ho!!! Paully | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 81 Registered: 1-2007 |
I didn't forget you either tb and all the rest!!! See ya's in a little bit, Paul | ||
| tbrannon
Advanced Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 375 Registered: 11-2004 |
Paul, Sorry if I've made this a difficult decision for you- I certainly didn't have any idea that I'd contribute to this dilemma. I think part of my love of the pan control on my bass is because the majority of the basses I've owned haven't had a pan- simply volume and pickup selector. Until now, I've never had a way to really blend pickups. The few basses I've ever owned that did have a pan knob also had Bridge pickups that sounded like a sick goose, so until I became an Alembic owner, a useful pan knob and a decent bridge sound was unknown to me. I think you're in a win-win situation, regardless of what you choose. I'm also glad that the fellas are chiming in on this thread. It's good to have guys like Steve, Terry and others who have owned basses equipped both ways. They'll be truly able to tell you the benefits of each setup. BTW: This thread has now come full circle since I bought the Rogue from Charles (crgaston). Perhaps he might be able to shed a little light on this since he's obviously played a pan equipped bass and has a Custom Series II (Charles' Dragonfly in FTC) or order. Sorry to put you on the spot Charles =) Toby | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 82 Registered: 1-2007 |
That's Great Toby, I think this thread is awesome in that I can definately make a decision. I want to point out that my Carvin has the pan and I like it but only as much as I like the bass itself which isn't much! Got to go for a minute but be right back, thanks, P | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 83 Registered: 1-2007 |
(Message edited by mele_aloha on April 19, 2007) | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 84 Registered: 1-2007 |
I'm in a delimma right now as the Travel Channel is showing a special on the "Secrets of Hawaii" and I have to watch the store right now and I really want to read this post and talk to you guys. I'll close the store soon! P | ||
| dtrice
Junior Username: dtrice Post Number: 43 Registered: 10-2006 |
Thanks for the info, Charles. I like the idea of a "Prepped for Series" bass. That would mean I got get a bass sooner and then save up for the electronics later. Does anyone know what is involved in changing a non-prepped Anniversary equipped bass to Series? Is it financially reasonable to upgrade or is it better to just buy a new bass? Sorry to digress from the point of the original post. (Message edited by dtrice on April 18, 2007) | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 523 Registered: 9-2005 |
Daniel, I just got a little info on this directly from Mica a few days ago... I'm still waiting to get final word on a quote and all the details; but this is the info/understanding I have so far (and anyone else who knows more and who can correct any errors/omissions please chime in): Currently, most Alembics are 1.5 inches thick; instruments with side jacks -like the Europa- need to be slightly thicker -1.6 inches thick- and the Series instruments need to be even a little thicker -1.7 inches thick. I believe Mica said this is because of the electronics -primarily/specifically the pots, I think. My understanding is that most instruments simply can not be retrofitted for Series electronics -because they're not thick enough. It's not clear to me whether it's completely impossible or merely more difficult/problematic/expensive... but I get the impression they either can't or won't do it in general because of the issues. I don't know if any exceptions have/can be made. Mica told me the Series prep includes hollowing out the body cavities (I think Series instruments usually have 3 cavities), putting silver shielding on/around all these cavities, routing for (and installing) the dummy humcancelling pickup, and building the bass with a thicker body. I don't want to quote the price, because she intimated she'd only recently got back into sales since Valentino's departure, and wasn't sure of the figure she gave me. Also, you'd have to decide if you wanted continueous woodplates at that point... and it would cost more since Series instruments require at least 2 cavities. She said 3 cavities are standard/recommended -although she added that it has been done with just two cavities, either by completely eliminating the battery option (which makes the instrument completely dependent on the external power supply) or sometime by fitting the battery(s?) into where the electronics go (although she said Mr. W doesn't like this option, and putting the battery(s?) in & out requires more work... removing some of the electronics with a screwdriver, I think). I think the usual arrangement is to get either the similar Signature or Anniversery electronics for the Series prep. And yeah, the thinking is, of course, that you can be set up to get the Series electronics down the road when you have the money to upgrade. I simply can't afford the Series setup at this point -at least with the Coco Bolo, BTCers, custom neck, and continueous woodplates I'm getting... but if the cost for the Series prep is affordable, I can set myself up to be able to upgrade in the future. So I'm just waiting to get a quote on the price -and then I'll decide, and letcha know! Paul -glad this helped! | ||
| dtrice
Junior Username: dtrice Post Number: 45 Registered: 10-2006 |
I know how that goes as far as money is concerned. I didn't know Valentino left! Man where was I? Yeah that definately helped, Paul! | ||
| bkbass
Intermediate Member Username: bkbass Post Number: 139 Registered: 11-2003 |
The second to last customized Rogue I ordered had the slightly wider body to accomdate the full series II electronics package. I found out that I don't really use the pickup selector switch at all,I just end up leaving both pick ups on and adjust the volumes as needed.Although I do use it for the standby mode to save the batteries on occasion. On the last Rogue,I wanted that sexy Rogue shape to be the smaller petite original size but I didn't want to give up the sound of the series II as I'm hooked. For me there simply isn't any better. So I chose to go with a standby switch instead of the rotary switch which gives me the best of both worlds. This next build will may combine the best of series and signature electronics in the form of a series I with a blend control instead two volumes. The blend control and switches certainly gives up some of the ultimate control but in the heat of battle it's just so much quicker to get from a to b. I can understand why Stanley prefers switches over knobs. | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 527 Registered: 9-2005 |
Hey guys! Two things, real quick... (1) Barry: My understanding is that the "standby" mode DOES NOT save batteries... that the batteries continue to drain as long as the (standard) plug is plugged in. So one of us is in error. And I'd like to be set straight. (I've always wondered about WHY the basses would be set up to keep draining power in the standby position... barring some reason -which I assume there is [assuming it's true in the first place]- it seems illogical... why not save power when it's on standby?) (2) Daniel, I, the "8-String King", am actually Mark! The quote above at the end of my last post "Paul -glad this helped" was directed at member "mele alohoa" whose name is Paul -in response to his thanking me for sharing info about Serie II electronics and options! Take care, all! | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 528 Registered: 9-2005 |
(Oops, I misquoted Paul's member name "mele aloha"!!! Sorry Paul, typo!) By the way, Barry, your Coco Bolo Series II Rogue is one of my top 7 favorite Coco Bolo Alembics of all time... and I used it as a reference for what I requested on/for my current Custom-in-progress!!! | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 85 Registered: 1-2007 |
Know problem Mark%% lol | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 86 Registered: 1-2007 |
Hi you friends, I finally get to sit down here at my computer and check in for a while here on this beautiful Aloha Friday. What a hecktick week though! Thanks for all of the opinions on this subject. Even the ones that get started on the side. It's all fun and useful! You know, after readiing everybody's pro's and con's, one thing I would like to emphasize in my opinion is that the pan isn't necessarily comparable to the volumes in that paning the pick-ups is more of an affect all of it's own. You know what I mean? It's almost like a pedal box or something in that it does a type of mixing that is completely different than volume controls. Volume controls are simply a tool of their own. First I would choose the volume and then I would mess around with the pan/mix to come up with completely different "tones" if you will. Ya, tones, that's the ticket!! I Love to blend my pick-ups on my Carvin which has this same pan. When I get into blending pick-ups with the pan control I get some really great tones all in themselves which would take a heck of alot more playing around with you might say than performing it with the volume controls. So for me I am just concerned with what someone mentioned about this pan control loosing some voltage or volume. Then it could become intruding or problamatic. Do you all see what I am saying though? What's your all takes on this subject? Any feedback on this fine Friday Eve? Come on, let's hear it, OK? Tanks, Pablo | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 87 Registered: 1-2007 |
Hey Mark, Are you out there? Ya know, I really honestly would like to have those bass/trebles controls on my bass. The only problem is that it would just be to many knobs for me especially on my bass as it is probably the smallest top bass there is, the balance K. I have really been thinking it out as I have had alot of time to as you know and there is no substituting anything else in order to bring them on board. I am totally happy with the controls the way the are except for the possiblity of this pan. And this may become an extra knob (#10) if I decide on it as I would not want to substitute the pick-up switch for it. I really appreciate all of your hard work concerning my delimma and all of your senario's. Thank you so much for your help. What do you think about what I say above? P.S. I am getting one dimmer for both side and front L.E.D.s. Thank you, Paul (Message edited by mele_aloha on April 20, 2007) | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 530 Registered: 9-2005 |
Hey there, Paul. Just got home from a nice dinner with my sweetie and our friend, and then I was doing a little research on the site to try and help you. I'm going to roll through some things semi-randomly -without worrying too much about the order, or having great form. First of all, you're set on the Series II. That comes standard with 8 controls -as I mentioned above. Plus you want 2 dimmers for the LEDs. Let's start there. LED DIMMER THOUGHTS: By all accounts, a variable dimmer is a must-have (or should-have) for the front Laser LEDs... they're so bright... you just REALLY want to have this control. On the other hand, it might not be as important with the side LEDs -they're not as bright. Also, you say that you want a dimmer... but have you considered how the (side) LEDs will be set up? By this, I mean... my understanding is that, as a rule, they're set up to ALWAYS BE ON on a Series bass -when the external power supply is plugged in. I could be wrong about this, so CONFIRM this. But (if I'm right) you have to ASK to have an off/on switch. Also, I'm pretty sure that (in general) the LEDs WILL NOT work WITHOUT the 5-pin/external power supply UNLESS YOU SPECIFICALLY ASK THEM TO MAKE AN EXTRA BATTERY CAVITY. My Custom Europa takes 4 9-volts -for the side LEDs. This probably doesn't matter to you... but maybe it does. IF you want to have the option to turn (either the front and/or side) LEDs off/on and/or be able to turn them on WITHOUT the external power supple (for example, with a wireless system, for gigs) you might want to inquire -NOT ASSUME- and make sure you'll get the setup you want. If you want to have an on/off switch -ask/make sure you get one. If you want to be able to use the LEDs without the power supply, ask/make sure. Anyway, you might, for example, want a variable dimmer for the front, but have the sides be on all the time (only with the power supply plugged in) and have a 3-position toggle offer 3 settings for the SIDE LEDs. I don't require any dimming for side LEDs. But of course, you're not me. But if/since you're concerned about knobs and space, a 3-position toggle might be enough for you -for the side LEDs. (And only you can say.) A 3-position toggle could let you choose between, say LEDs off/on(1/2 power)/on(full power). Or again, you could consider eliminating the side dimmer. So this is something for you to figure out. Do you want them to automatically come on (only) when the power supply is plugged in? Do you want the option of having the (front and/or side) LEDs work WITHOUT the power supply? Do you want an off/on switch for the side LEDs? Do you want/need a dimmer for the side, and if so, do you want/need a knob, or will a 3-position toggle do? If they were set up to always be on, you could have 3 levels of brightness with a 3-position toggle; or you could have a 3-position toggle that offers you 2 settings and an off position. Only you can answer these questions... but Alembic can do it any of these ways. I recall seeing at least one Series owner lamenting that he couldn't use his LEDs when playing wireless (which can't be done without the external power supply). So if this is a concern, you may want them to route a cavity to install 9 volts for the LEDs. I don't even know if they can do this for the Laser LEDs... it might not be an option for them... they might eat too much power. I just don't know -so IF this important -find out from someone who DOES know. Another thing that MIGHT be a possiblity would be to see if they could have an innovation that does two functions at once. For example, see if they could make you a master volume with a center detent (like the pan controls) that works as a volume control with (say, for example side) LEDs on one way, and off the other way. This should be possible... but whether it would be an easy quick rig up, or an long, expensive custom job... you'd have to check with Mica or Ron. THOUGHT ON LOTS OF KNOBS: Again, the standard Series II setup has 8 controls, basically all knobs. And you're going to add at least one more knob for the Laser LED dimmer, and probably another knob (or toggle) for the side LED dimmer. So that's 10 controls. On the other hand, you may eliminate 2 of those knobs if you elect to go for a master volume/pan setup -instead of the 3 volume & pickup selector setup -which would put you back to the status quo of 8 controls. Or you could consider really going nuts and ADDING another knob -a balance control- and a toggle switch to choose between the 3 volume system and a volume/pan setup. I don't think they've done this before, and it would be a custom setup, and likely expensive. You probably aren't even interested, and would probably prefer to do an either/or... choose either the standard Series setup OR the simplified master volume/pan setup seen in the two examples I referred you to above, and the one Steve linked you to. But if I'm wrong and it does interest you (which doesn't sound like the case, especially as it would mean more knobs!) then you could ask. But I will tell you that there is no need to be afraid of lots of knobs and controls. It can be done, and it can work well. It's all about space efficiency, and layout. If you want bass and treble controls, you should get them. There are LOTs of different options and ways to address this need, and you can find a way to balance getting these controls with your concerns. If you want bass & treble controls, remember that you can choose knobs -which take up more space (and/but are more versatile) or toggles (which are less versatile but take up less space). And you can choose to have individual controls for each pickup (twice as many controls) or you could just have one set of master bass & treble controls. You could also mix & match. For example, in my opinion, a variable bass control (knob) is much more important/useful on an Alembic than a variable treble control. This is because if you DON'T have one, the only way to boost the bass is by turning the filter all the way down -which means you filter out all the frequencies above that point. A variable treble control is less important, as it's easier to adjust those frequencies with the filter & Q. I'd recommend getting at least one MASTER SET of 3-position bass & treble "quick change" "boost/flat/cut toggles. These two little switches take up VERY LITTLE space. Better yet, get a set for each pickup... they still wouldn't take up much space. Another idea would be to have ONE (master) treble toggle and ONE (master) bass KNOB. Again, that wouldn't take up much space. Finally, you might consider 2 treble toggles (one for each pickup) and 2 bass KNOBS (one for each pickup). But that's getting knobby. I don't think treble knobs are something that you should pursue, based on your concerns. So you could think about this. Probably the best thing for you would be one of three things: (1) have just one (master) set of bass & treble toggles... this takes up VERY LITTLE space, and is nothing to worry about, trust me. (2) You could get 2 sets, one for each pickup. (3) you could get ONE treble toggle and ONE bass KNOB. This would only add a little space. You should think about this, study some layouts of other custom Alembics with lots of controls, and maybe play around with drawing some layouts for yourself. You can use pennies and dimes on an index card, and move 'em around to make mockups for different configurations. My Europa has SIXTEEN controls... and it's incredibly intuitive and easy to use. I NEVER have any problems, and can get any sound variations I want quickly, consistently, and easily. But I had them design it in a very logical and space-efficient way. I'm going to give you some links and references to other Alembics on the site that you may or may not have seen -to study and have at your disposal for reference purposes. I'm new at doing links, so some I'll have to describe/tell you how to get to. And I may have to submit some as separate posts. I'll get started now. First, here's "Understated Elegance" -from the Custom Archives. It's another Series Bass with a master volume, pan/balance, and INDIVIDUAL bass & treble KNOBS for each pickup -laid out in a very simple and elegant manner: http://www.alembic.com/info/JEfretless.html Next, check out the Big Bass, which also has INDIVIDUAL bass & treble KNOBS for each pickup (and which also is a Series Bass: http://www.alembic.com/info/fc_yahya.html Finally, I'll try and post a close-up of my bass and it's control layout:  You can see I've got 8 knobs, basically as knobby as a standard Series II setup... AND I've also got 8 toggles switches, 4 pairs set between the knobs... they don't get in the way at all. You could easily do something like this -ESPECIALLY if you elect to elimate the 3 volume/pickup selector setup. Imagine something similar for your setup, like my bass above, but with only single toggles "in-between" the knobs. Imagine the top row being a master knob in the center, filter knobs on either side, with individual 3-position boost/flat/cut treble toggles in-between; middle row, 2 CVQs; lower row, pan/balance knob in the middle, side and front off-to-maximum dimmer knobs on either side, and individual 3-position boost/flat/cut bass toggles in-between. 12 controls total: 8 knobs, 4 toggles, simple, symettrical, space-efficient, and giving you extra-awesome control. Of course, this suggested layout is just one of many; it's just to offer a simple, conservative, and mininalistic -yet extra flexible arrangement. One final example to look at: http://alembic.com/club/messages/631/2936.html?1066333385 If this link doesn't work, do it the hard way by going to "Factory To Customer", scroll to the bottom and click on "Archive through Dec 31st 2003", and look for "For Harrison." Another awesome Alembic with LOTS of controls -individual bass & treble KNOBS for each pickup. Oh yeah, another really cool one on the main FTC page -about 1/2way down- is "Rory's custom bass" (or maybe it's "Rory's custom 6-String bass?"... it has LOT's of controls... and note that it's a BALANCE K with INDIVIDUAL bass and treble controls for EACH PICKUP IN ADDITION to having the standard EIGHT CONTROLS of ANNIVERSARY ELECTRONICS!!! So it can be done!!! You need have no fear of lot's of knobs!!! If you want bass & treble controls... GET 'EM!!! If you want to go all the way, you can get knobs for each pickup!!! Just look and see... it has been done! And obviously, doing something more conservative like having just a single set of master toggles or knobs or having two sets of toggles would be no problem -even on the small Balance K body. Rory's awesome custom is proof. (And you should check it out, 'cause it's just an absolutely stunning Balance K -one of the nicest I've EVER seen. It was the one that pushed me "over the edge" into getting the Balance K body!!!) Take care, Paul, hope this helps!!! I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing your masterpiece when it gets going! You're neck is already an instant classic, and one of the coolest I've EVER seen!!! Mark | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 531 Registered: 9-2005 |
Link to Rory's Balance K (Awesome -check it out!) http://alembic.com/club/messages/631/12646.html?1160021947 You can see my bass has 16 controls (8 knobs & 8 toggles, Harrison's has 13 controls (8 knobs & 5 toggles), "Understated Elegance" has 10 controls (all knobs), the "Big Bass" has 12 controls (all knobs), and Rory's bass has 12 controls (9 knobs & 3 toggles). So have no fear of knobs!!! The only question is what you want, and are able/willing to pay for! They can do it... in fact, odds are, they probably already HAVE done it! | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 89 Registered: 1-2007 |
Dear Mark, Before I even read that huge message above, I must remind you, I don't want and didn't say anywhere that I wanted two dimmers for my LED's. Val and I decided on one dimmer for both front and side a long time ago. So I don't even want to read that huge letter above as it already starts out assuming that I want two dimmers. I will in a minute anyway but it is already based on something that I don't have ordered. Look Mark, I appreciate all of your concern but I already have my mind MADE UP! I am just thinking about maybe adding a pan like my Carvin has but please Please PLEASE!!! Don't go to all of this trouble friend because I don't even have time to read all of your nice posts. I love ya bro but please don't go through so much. Perhaps you can't picture in your mind that I think out all of this stuff too! Buddy listen- You already have THREE MORE STRINGS on your bass than I could ever handle. So I hope that gives you some idea of the magnitude that we differ in. Ands believe me, it's a good differ but it's a differ. I love your 8 string but this just shows that you are way more advanced than me in mind and agility. So brother, if anything, do you really wanna know how you could help me? I would love to here you playing that eight string. Could you possibly post some sound bytes of you playing like Toby did the other night? I would love to hear that bass of yours sing. It is so intriguing to see an eight string. Now I must return to read the rest of your post, but believe me I don't have a lot of time to go looking at other basses and comparing because it doesn't do me any good to look at them, I just want some input from people who have put a pan in their Series II. Not Series I's or other basses because remember that I have a Series II on order and I have already made up my mind about the controls. I am not going to change anything at this point EXCEPT possibly adding a pan after talking to admins after hearing opinions of people who may have them. Aloha, Paul | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 90 Registered: 1-2007 |
(Message edited by mele_aloha on April 21, 2007) | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 535 Registered: 9-2005 |
Gotcha. Cool. | ||
| byoung
Senior Member Username: byoung Post Number: 607 Registered: 12-2004 |
Paul, When people say something you don't like, you don't have to read it. And you certainly don't have to respond. Maybe you should just say thanks, and move on. Bradley | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 92 Registered: 1-2007 |
Dear Bradley, I just did Mark a favor by saving him a lot of time and effort by not trying to change my mind. This has been going on for a while now and unless you have been following all of my posts and Marks responses then you don't know what is going on. I have that right. And if you notice I did it very politely. I have been having some great fun in here with some others and we are sending each other some great e-mails on the side. Perhaps if you didn't have a thorn in your side you wouldn't be responding to something that isn't your business. I have a right to be in here and happen to be liked by some others who aren't trying to control everything I say or do. I don't see you sending messages to others who are making snide remarks to each other. And one, that is because I don't care and two, because it's none of my business. Are you now the polite police? You obviously have a right to do the same as you just suggested to me. And if you would have followed your own advice we wouldn't even be conversing right now would we. Any comments from anybody else out there on this? If I am out of line as Bradley might suggest, please let me know. And again Mark, I was just trying to save you alot of writing as I know you care alot about others in here but I just didn't want to see you keep laboring over changing my mind. God Bless you Brad. | ||
| byoung
Senior Member Username: byoung Post Number: 609 Registered: 12-2004 |
Oh well, I tried. | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 2324 Registered: 7-2004 |
Paul: IMHO your above post of 4/23 is a little strong for this club. This is an exceptionally polite and civil forum. Many's the time I've typed out a response, read it over, and deleted it without posting. All You Need Is Love Bill, tgo | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 93 Registered: 1-2007 |
Thanks bkbass, In fact I think I even want to keep the two volume knobs. It's just that I might want to replace the pick-up selector switch with the pan and add a standby to save the batteries if what you say is true that it actually cuts the power. But most of the time I think I would be playing through the box. I think it would be awesome to be able to control the volumes and then could you imagine the tone diffential you would have being able to pan from one pick-up to the next. The range would become endless. I would still like to have the master volume also. But the stereo effect and seperation would be nicer also. Like I said earlier, my Carvin bass has this pan and it really allows me to dial different sounds. The only difference is that the series would have so much more variety by first dialing in the filter and Q adjustments, PER PICK-UP, then the individual volume, then the pan. WWWWWoooooeee, that seems nice. This would be like S wood and terryc are talking about. Is this what you had in mind bk? That would be filter, Q, and volume for each pick-up, pan knob, master volume, and one dimmer only which dim's both side and front led's at the same time as I don't really need two. This makes a total of 9 knobs and no switch's which is what my order is now. I'm just substituting the pick-up selector switch with the pan. Thanks, Paul | ||
| mica
Moderator Username: mica Post Number: 4471 Registered: 6-2000 |
Standby is specifically not off - meaning that if you are using the 1/4" jack, you are always draining batteries. Think of it more as a mute position. We've made exactly one bass before that had 2 volume controls and a pan. It made perfect sense to the gentleman that ordered it, but I had a hard time understanding the purpose. Note that if you use the pan control with pickups set at different volumes, the overall volume (not only the tone) will change when you adjust the pan control. This seems less useful to me because it limits the pan's use as a straight tone control, always having to jump back to the MV to correct for the volume shift. The Series basses we made for bk and swood have a master volume and pan arrangement. This way you get the blending idea for changing the tone between pickups, without the liability of the volume shift. Overall, to me it seems that 2 volumes and a master volume versus master volume and pan are like 2 different paths to the same destination. | ||
| the_8_string_king
Senior Member Username: the_8_string_king Post Number: 543 Registered: 9-2005 |
Paul, I'm going to respond to your comments briefly -for the sake of setting the record straight. First, for reference, I've taken the liberty of copying the text of two of your previous posts. Here is the first: Hey Mark, Are you out there? Ya know, I really honestly would like to have those bass/trebles controls on my bass. The only problem is that it would just be to many knobs for me especially on my bass as it is probably the smallest top bass there is, the balance K. I have really been thinking it out as I have had alot of time to as you know and there is no substituting anything else in order to bring them on board. I am totally happy with the controls the way the are except for the possiblity of this pan. And this may become an extra knob (#10) if I decide on it as I would not want to substitute the pick-up switch for it. I really appreciate all of your hard work concerning my delimma and all of your senario's. Thank you so much for your help. What do you think about what I say above? P.S. I am getting one dimmer for both side and front L.E.D.s. Thank you, Paul Well, Paul, as can be seen above in your text highlighted in blue, YOU (not me) explicitly state that you'd "honestly would like to have the bass & treble controls" "except that it would be too many knobs on your bass." You then thank me for my "hard work" and ask "what do you think?" In response, I answer. And, prior to your editing your post, your referred to having "dimmers" (plural... MORE THAN ONE) for your bass. So I responded to your request for (my/our) thoughts for THAT question. Since you didn't make it clear that you were asking about a single dimmer, and since you implicitly referred to MORE THAN ONE -you'll have to forgive my responding to the question that you asked... as opposed to the question you meant to ask (but did not). I also wish to respond to this post of yours -which I've again copied: Dear Bradley, I just did Mark a favor by saving him a lot of time and effort by not trying to change my mind. This has been going on for a while now and unless you have been following all of my posts and Marks responses then you don't know what is going on. (RESPONSE) What "changing your mind?" I responded to the question/issue you raised. See for yourself. I didn't try to get you to change your mind. I don't care what you get. I have that right. (RESPONSE) Yes. And no one has said or suggested otherwise. That statement COULD be interpreted as "defensive." And if you notice I did it very politely. I have been having some great fun in here with some others and we are sending each other some great e-mails on the side. <font="red">Perhaps if you didn't have a thorn in your side you wouldn't be responding to something that isn't your business. (RESPONSE) I see no evidence that BRAD has a "thorn in his side." I have a right to be in here and happen to be liked by some others who aren't trying to control everything I say or do. (RESPONSE) Who has suggested otherwise? Who are these horrible monsters trying to control what you say and do? Down with them, I say! Arrhh!!! I don't see you sending messages to others who are making snide remarks to each other. And one, that is because I don't care and two, because it's none of my business. Are you now the polite police? (RESPONSE) Maybe someone should be. You obviously have a right to do the same as you just suggested to me. And if you would have followed your own advice we wouldn't even be conversing right now would we. Any comments from anybody else out there on this? If I am out of line as Bradley might suggest, please let me know. (RESPONSE) If you have to ask, there's no point in answering. And again Mark, I was just trying to save you alot of writing as I know you care alot about others in here but I just didn't want to see you keep laboring over changing my mind. (RESPONSE) I can't KEEP laboring over changing your mind... that would require that I WAS laboring over changing your mind in the first place. God Bless you Brad. (RESPONSE) Now wasn't that nice? Paul, I wish you the very best with your custom bass, and I hope you get exactly what YOU want. I look forward to seeing it, and I have NO INTEREST in changing your mind on anything. My comments and responses to the issues you've raised were intended to help you -nothing more. I can't speak for anyone else, but I'm pretty sure that everyone -including his alleged thorniness Bradley- just wants you to be happy. If you want input from people here, and are gracious about receiving it, you'll find people here are happy to give it. From time to time, this might include dealing with our imperfections, and challenges inherent in human beings communicating with one another. If you show -in your actions, and how civilly you respond to others- that you grasp that, people will tend to share what they have with you. Conversely, to the extent that you respond harshly to people that are only trying to help you, you'll tend to alienate them and discourage then from sharing what they have to share with you (both good and bad). The choice is yours. Peace, and best wishes. | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 1423 Registered: 6-2002 |
Mark T8SK - if we can fault you for one thing, it's your generosity in sharing your experiences in matters Alembic, and wanting to help others out, in abundance. Personally, I'm not sure why Bradley was reacting so strongly, and I can't really see how Bill TGO could find fault with Paul's very civil responses. But I must say that the length of your posts is kind of intimidating sometimes. Just a thought. (Message edited by adriaan on April 23, 2007) | ||
| mele_aloha
Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 100 Registered: 1-2007 |
Dear friends, Let me see if I can put an end to this "once a pan control" thread. First of all, what some of you might not know is that Bradley probably still thinks of me as a lousy bumb for telling him off in my additions/changes area a few months ago. Now I hope you guys understand this is a few months ago and I had already been patiently waiting to see my bass get started. It finally did and Mica posted a picture of my neck in my factory/customer area. Well, I had a specific question for Mica and I asked it of her in my additions/changes thread. Instead of getting a reply from Mica I recieved a comment from Bradley. Now we are all, or most of us are spending alot of money to build a bass of or dreams in here and we must respect each others space. There is NO way I would step in and answer a question that was asked of Mica in any thread in here whether it be Basses and Guitars, Build Record/Discussion and especially someones personnal additions/changes thread. So I was hard on Bradley for doing this. He seems to have never let go of this and I am very sorry. Since then I have gotten to learn and see more of Bradley's personality in here and I wish this all would have never happened because he seems like a very nice warm human being. I even saw his picture and he looks like a big Teddy Bear to me! So right here, right now if front of all of you, I want to express my deep apology to you Bradley and ask you forgive me for blurting out at you! I mean this from the bottom of my heart! Now Mark, I was trying to politely expain to you, but I left out words in the beginning that I liked your idea of Bass and Treble knobs but that I already made my mind up and didn't want you to go back on that in this post. Mark, I am not very good at words and you are overly good at words but adriaan puts it very good above, "if we can fault you for one thing, it's your generosity in sharing your experiences in matters Alembic, and wanting to help others out, in abundance". "But I must say that the length of your posts is kind of intimidating sometimes. Just a thought." And that is all I can say! I apologize to you for hurting you feelings in any way but your posts are kind of intimidating to me. I know if we were having a phone conversation this wouldn't have all happened because I would have stopped you and said that I don't want to change all of the knobs and that I know about all of the switches and knob options. So part of the problem here is that we are trying to be as compitent as possible because nobody is responding back. Let me please suggest it to you this way, if you just scan from the top down on this thread, just compare your posts to all of the others who wrote. Theirs are short for the most part and pertain to the topic, pan controls. It kind of appears here that you don't have a pan control on your bass and maybe it would have been better to say that in the beginning and let the people who have one answer. Or are one of those 16 controls you have a pan? Thank you, Paul | ||
| mele_aloha
Intermediate Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 101 Registered: 1-2007 |
Thanks Mica for setting that straight, I just liked panning as opposed to resetting two different volumes as it was alittle more readily. But this is why I started this post specifically for those who have had the experience because you point out an important factor to me that the volume will change with the pan. I didn't imagine that experience and in fact it doesn't happen on my Carvin because I don't have individual volumes on each pick-up. This pan and the master are the volume controls. So now in my consideration I would want to elminate the individual volumes if I were to reach my wishes but I don't think I want to eliminate the individual volumes. One other thing, can you give me your explanation of the master switch on the Series II Mica? Or is there somewhere you can redirect me to this explanation from Alembic? Thanks, Paul | ||
| mica
Moderator Username: mica Post Number: 4476 Registered: 6-2000 |
There is a master volume on a Series II. When you set the two individual volumes to the tone you like, you can then make an overall volume change with the master volume control. This will not affect the tone, since the pickups will have the same relative volumes. This is especially useful if you want to do something like fade out the volume at the end of a phrase or song. It's pretty hard to move two knobs at the same rate at the same time, but easy enough to use the single master volume. I think when it comes to if you prefer a pan control or individual volume controls, it's more about how you think about the route to the sound. What makes sense to one person is rather alien to another, and there is no one correct answer. If you prefer to think about things in terms of a pan/blend control, then the pan with a master volume is more appropriate. If you think of the two pickups and changing the volumes of each individually, then using the standard 2 volume with a master volume will be a more natural route. However, I think most people can function just fine with either arrangement. I have to find out the additional price for a Series II pan control - it's one of the weirdest pots we order. I'll let you know that variable as well. | ||
| mele_aloha
Intermediate Member Username: mele_aloha Post Number: 102 Registered: 1-2007 |
Don't worry about it Mica. Don't even look into a price. It sounds to me like there's been enough trial and error around here that what the Series II has standard has been proven. And what I was asking about is the pick-up master switch. I've heard it has 3-4 positions. So I just want to get it and all information about my bass from you now cuz I'm getting a little to confused in the forum. No blame, just me! I think I'll just play it smart now and if I need anymore advice I'll come check with you. I just wish there was some sort of spec sheet on the Series II. Is there by chance Mica? I was just putting this out to see if it was kind of normal for some people to order pans. but I can see it was not. So let's just stick with what I have ordered and keep plugging. I'll talk to ya on the other side. Thanks for your time. (Message edited by mele_aloha on April 24, 2007) | ||
| mica
Moderator Username: mica Post Number: 4478 Registered: 6-2000 |
The pickup selector switch is 4-positions. It's easy to get confused because there's only 3 "clicks" but you've got to count the first position. The most counter-clockwise rotation is standby. Then comes neck pickup, both pickups, bridge pickup. From the feedback I get, many people leave the pickup selector on both pickups most of the time and just click over to standby when they need a mute. More advanced users and stereo users often use the channels separately for effects and such. |
