| Author |
Message |
hendixclarke
Junior
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 43
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, September 06, 2007 - 3:29 pm: |  |
When I think of crappy instruments, and in this case basses, I think the crappy ones have very few sound choices and they sound dull. I had a toy bass from sears that sounded like "donk, donk, dang" 
But there are people who could take this same bass, and play the heck out of it... This is a true master. S/he can find the beauty of the sound, and bring out the best from it. Although, there are only a few things they could do, they still accentuate the soul beauty of the instrument.
Why 5 string bass over 4?
4 has been the standard but because, we are high on LOWER LOWS AND HIGHER HIGHS, sound is evolving as basses. A 5 string bass player has more options and if they are true masters, they could still play the hell out of a Kmart special by Mattel.
Alembic basses sound good even if you play one note. Two notes even better. On the other hand, playing ONE note on my “close to being played as broom stick,” or fire wood, sounds bad for anyone unless you are a true master. |
elwoodblue
Intermediate Member
Username: elwoodblue
Post Number: 161
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 5:37 am: | |
a shoebox and a big rubber band...and alot less ego.
whoops..I'm guilty of having an ego ;)
wave on... |
alembickoa
Junior
Username: alembickoa
Post Number: 47
Registered: 5-2002
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 7:56 am: | |
Interesting thread...Now, this comes from a "FOG" (fat old guy) who has played a LOT of gigs and played and seen a LOT of different basses. A few things pop into my head now and again over time and here are some things that I am lucky enough to remember...
I swore one day (this is "back in the EARLY 60's"...don't ya just hate that term) I would have a Fender. Then I swore one day I would have an Alembic S1. After a myriad, mish mash, and multitude of gigs, the S1 happened and I swore I would be buried with it. After another 3m's (see above) of gigs with my S1, someone asked what would happen if I ever lost the S1. Go back to a Fender, I suppose, was the reply. Of course, along the way I swore a lot of other things, one being that I would never ever end up homeless. Can you picture a homeless guy...me...trotting around the streets and sleeping in the bushes with an $18K bass just waiting for someone to clunk him over the head so they could trade my Alembic for a quarter ounce of crank??? Sold it...something I swore I would never do...and now am playing an old P Bass given to me by an old friend.
I guess the morals of the story are...a P Bass is a very wonderful instrument but sure as shootin' ain't an Alembic which are the best basses imaginable, and don't swear. |
funkyjazzjunky
Junior
Username: funkyjazzjunky
Post Number: 11
Registered: 5-2007
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 9:43 am: | |
Carvin makaes great basses (and gear) |
hendixclarke
Junior
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 44
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 9:49 am: | |
Basses back in the day, were designed to support the bottom and "STAY IN THE BACKGROUND".
Then Bass Players started a revolt, and some even started there own bands. (This was very risky at the time...) Fans listened, and loved what they heard and a market was born.
It took people "taking that old Fender Jazz or P bass" to kick-off the need for a better sounding bass. After this period it was manifested, was perfect for a company like Alembic to execute for the bass.
However, as for the lead guitar market, people were "already in tune" on the sounds of a Strat's, Gibson's, and thus, the Alembic Lead guitar had much more work to do. Gerry Garcia as the only front man, was not an idea picture for me to be inspired to pickup an alembic lead at all. Not after seeing what other choosin in their camp. Seeing Jimi kill a Fender, was inspiring and it started the age of Fusion Rock/Blues. But to think of Gerry killing an Alembic Lead, is un-thinkable.
The bass broke out in the 70's ...probably after the death of Jimi Hendrix. |
alembic76407
Senior Member
Username: alembic76407
Post Number: 535
Registered: 5-2002
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 10:00 am: | |
I would still be a drummer |
elwoodblue
Intermediate Member
Username: elwoodblue
Post Number: 162
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 1:42 pm: | |
what?? who??
huh???!!
gerry,hendix...too much LSD? |
hb3
Advanced Member
Username: hb3
Post Number: 249
Registered: 2-2005
| | Posted on Friday, September 07, 2007 - 6:05 pm: | |
There is Alembic...and there is this. Nothing else.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=rkgkp1PCQuE |
bigbadbill
Advanced Member
Username: bigbadbill
Post Number: 382
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 - 2:45 am: | |
Quote - "Fish, you're my new hero. In my guit-army, the general is the Alembic and the ground troops are Rickenbackers".
Me too! I actually play my Rics far more than my Alembic (they fit my band better, plus there's a well-documented weight/bad back issue), although I have to say my Alembic is the best bass I own, if there is such a thing.
If I couldn't play Alembic it would be Rickenbacker or Sei Bass, built by Martin Petersen at the Bass Gallery in Camden. Great basses, and Martin is a fantastic bloke. Have to second Graeme's comments about Chris May too, although I tend to find most Overwaters a bit conservative both tonally and visually (but that's the intention so I have no problem with that). I also like Pedulla. Never played a Jerzy Drozd or Benavente, but I certainly like the look of them. I had a Wal once but it didn't suit me like the Alembic; I actually p/x'd my Pedulla MVP for it and regretted it soon after. |
bigbadbill
Advanced Member
Username: bigbadbill
Post Number: 383
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 - 2:51 am: | |
Quote -"Going off-topic, but in my experience, awesome instruments are harder to play than not so awesome ones. An Alembic will really show where you're groovin, but will also make where you're sloppy all too obvious. I agree though that if you're playing right (at least on the inside), anything will sound fabulous. And even better on a high end. As far as I can tell, there really isn't any disadvantage to playing exclusively on a high end. I know that if I pick up a lower-end I'll be able to make it sound good no worries, but a high end I'm not used to would take me some time."
I actually find the opposite. I can hardly play at all on cheap basses. I play (both pluck and fret) very lightly indeed, and require a very responsive instrument that's set up perfectly. Put me on a cheap bass and 9 times out of 10 I sound pretty poor. One of the things I love about the 2 Alembics I've had is how much easier they are to play well, and to sound good on. But hey, that's probably just me. |
88persuader
Advanced Member
Username: 88persuader
Post Number: 325
Registered: 5-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 - 8:50 pm: | |
For me it would be Modulus ... I own 2! :-) They do a great job on the body wood however nobody does wood like Alembic. But I LOVVVVVVE the Graphite necks! I wish Alembic still offered graphite neck basses. |
roberto
Member
Username: roberto
Post Number: 52
Registered: 3-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 12, 2007 - 9:11 am: | |
Dingwall.
Even the cheapest model sounds good. |
foth
Intermediate Member
Username: foth
Post Number: 149
Registered: 12-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 12, 2007 - 1:15 pm: | |
My favorite non-Alembic bass is a Roland. No home should be without one!
 |
hendixclarke
Junior
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 47
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, September 12, 2007 - 2:51 pm: | |
What about the Ghost Petal? That's a keeper for sure. What you know about that? |
rami
Senior Member
Username: rami
Post Number: 692
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Friday, September 14, 2007 - 7:54 pm: | |
The question is subjective and irrelevant. Is it about how an instrument looks, it's construction or it's sound? Just about every company now can make you anything. There's no "Better" or "Worse". It's what you like - may not be what I like.
The point is that an instrument is a tool, what you get out of it comes from what you put into it. A good musician can do alot with a modest Bass. Another Bass can look pretty on a stand, but without a good musican behind it, it's worthless. Better, worse - totally meaningless. |
hendixclarke
Junior
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 50
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Friday, September 14, 2007 - 9:14 pm: | |
Since I asked the question, then I will respond...
First of all, I agree with most of what you said. If you had a chance to read other comments, you would had read me say my question was irrational. It was just for fun...
Secondly, I said a great musician can pickup any bass and play the heck out of it... Correct again. Alembic is only a nice cut of wood to those people who own one, and can't play the thing. Sure they have the coolest bass around, but it’s real sad to hold such a great bass, and can't even play the thing. This is why it amazes me when people say if Alembic was not around, they wouldn't play the bass. How crazy is this? This why I asked such a question in the first place... to see what silly comments "even mine" would appear and just for fun. I know well and well, many of people's first bass was not an Alembic. They probably started playing a cheaper bass until they had the opportunity to get an Alembic. What got them to get an Alembic and preach the gospel behind them, had to be based upon a proven testimonial from having played other basses.
Music is purely emotional, as what we think sounds good or look good.
You make a good point, and of course I agree with you... |
ajdover
Senior Member
Username: ajdover
Post Number: 569
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Friday, September 14, 2007 - 9:41 pm: | |
"Since I asked the question, then I will respond...
First of all, I agree with most of what you said. If you had a chance to read other comments, you would had read me say my question was irrational. It was just for fun...
Secondly, I said a great musician can pickup any bass and play the heck out of it..."
Yes, they can. That's why they're great musicians and the vast majority of us are hobbyists ... most of us can't pick up a base instrument and make it sound good - the truly gifted can ... which of course is what makes them truly gifted in the first place.
"Correct again. Alembic is only a nice cut of wood to those people who own one, and can't play the thing. Sure they have the coolest bass around, but it’s real sad to hold such a great bass, and can't even play the thing. This is why it amazes me when people say if Alembic was not around, they wouldn't play the bass."
I played bass well before I ever got my hands on an Alembic. In fact, I never played an Alembic until 2003. I started as a bass player in 1977, wich tells me I spent 26 years without an Alembic. I guess I was truly deprived then ...
"How crazy is this? This why I asked such a question in the first place... to see what silly comments "even mine" would appear and just for fun. I know well and well, many of people's first bass was not an Alembic. They probably started playing a cheaper bass until they had the opportunity to get an Alembic. What got them to get an Alembic and preach the gospel behind them, had to be based upon a proven testimonial from having played other basses."
"Music is purely emotional, as what we think sounds good or look good."
"You make a good point, and of course I agree with you..."
Bottom line - if Alembic wasn't available, I'd still be playing bass. Perhaps not as well, or not enjoying it as much, but playing nonetheless. As the owner of 6 (going on 7) Alembics I can confidently say the following ...
Alembics make me play better because their electronics are so unforgiving of mistakes, I have no choice be to play better.
Because they are so beautiful (to me, at least) I am inspired to play my Alembics more often, and hence practice more. Practice makes perfect, and hopefully better.
Alembics generate more curiosity than any other instrument I've owned in a Guitar Center. Why? Because they not only look amazing, they sound unlike anything else in that store, regardless of price and player.
For these reasons alone, I'm glad I'm an Alembic owner.
Alan |
rami
Senior Member
Username: rami
Post Number: 693
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, September 15, 2007 - 7:53 am: | |
I realize that this is all in fun and I certainly did not mean to appear to scold. The Bass market is just so huge and the choice is dizzying.
I love all my Basses individually for various reasons. My instrument is my dance partner, lots of give and take. Sure I want it to please me visually, and I love exploring every nuance of it's wood combinations, but it's how I feel after getting through a long and difficult piece that counts the most.
Which ever Bass I have in my hand at that moment is my favorite Bass. The greatest Bass in the world. |
tbrannon
Senior Member
Username: tbrannon
Post Number: 535
Registered: 11-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, September 15, 2007 - 8:00 am: | |
Rami,
Not to hijack this thread, but I've been meaning to ask you about that Carvin B1500 head you said you were ordering. I tried to find an email in your profile, but no luck.
How do you like it- I've got two Bag End S15D's to power and I'm itching to pull the trigger on that B1500. Lots of bang for the buck from what I've heard elsewhere.
Sorry again for the hijack.
Toby |
rami
Senior Member
Username: rami
Post Number: 694
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, September 15, 2007 - 8:15 am: | |
Hey Toby,
It's just incredible. It actually drives my EDEN D410XLT cabinet better than my EDEN amp. Big, powerful, crisp, full tone. Lots of really well thought out features. Definitely worth the price. You'll be very impressed - guaranteed.
Rami |
tbrannon
Senior Member
Username: tbrannon
Post Number: 536
Registered: 11-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, September 15, 2007 - 11:01 am: | |
Thanks Rami- you just pushed me over the edge.
Toby |
bigredbass
Senior Member
Username: bigredbass
Post Number: 1223
Registered: 9-2002
| | Posted on Sunday, September 16, 2007 - 3:18 pm: | |
Thought about this some more . . . .
Besides the TUNE, if I were going to build my own bolt-neck, it would look a lot like Matt Pulcinella's axes (www.mpguitars.com). Built by a working player, Matt's long on what works and short on what doesn't when the 'red light comes on', my kinda guy.
One of the few Japanese home-market axes (Bacchus in Japan) available on THIS side of the pond, I'd really like to see/try a GodLyke (www.godlykebass.com). Interesting neck joint on the set neck ones, and gee I'd like to have a 10-string (octave/five) one day.
Why don't I ever want something normal???? Now, where's that Atlansia listing . . . .
J o e y |
somatic
Member
Username: somatic
Post Number: 63
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Monday, September 24, 2007 - 12:55 pm: | |
I like my Alembics a whole lot, but they're not the "ultimate". No bass is, and I'm just as happy to be playing anything as nothing. The Alembics are just another tool in the box.
That said, if I had to select a new high end bass, it'd probably be a Status Kingbass, a Sei Flamboyant headless or a Modulus.
Secondhand / older there are a number oncluding my old Peavey T40's, Kawai's and 80's era Ibanezes all of which I enjoy equally as much. |
somatic
Member
Username: somatic
Post Number: 64
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Monday, September 24, 2007 - 1:26 pm: | |
Forgot to mention my Steinberger XL2, which gets more playing time than anything else I own. |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 65
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 7:28 am: | |
"I like my Alembics a whole lot, but they're not the "ultimate". No bass is,..."
I strongly disagree with your statement. Alembic, is the the ULTIMATE BASS. Can you think of a better bass? I'll answer this for you, NO.
Now, I don't want to sound like a sounding board for a company. Alembic don't own me. But, if anybody is going to shell out thousands of dollars, they ain't thinking about a second rate bass. They're thinking and knowing from many years of playing basses, that what they attemping to own is pure, solid, and of quality at the highest emotional and rational level. From this perspective, no bass could get you to that level, than the ULTIMATE BASS we know and love...Alemebic. The name even starts with the letter "A" as in 4.0, "A+" grade.
You can't show me a better bass. Now, what you can do is, tell us what is the best sub-bass, as this post questioned. In other words, "the other bass."
It's cool, don't read me the wrong way, it's all good conversation around the coffee table bro.
"Keep on groovin..." |
pace
Advanced Member
Username: pace
Post Number: 355
Registered: 4-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 8:53 am: | |
Joey,
To give a testimonial to your assumptions about Godlyke basses, I cant say enough good things about my 8-string. My main gigging bass is my fretless Elan, but this one usually travels w/ me just in case.
I stumbled upon this bass a couple of years ago and it sold itself..... Ash body, maple top & neck. Ebony fretboard and brass nut. I had my doubts about the neck joint, but it's solid. 18V preamp~ Im not a big fan of cut/boost circuits, but there's a trim pot for the mid's bandwidth, and trim pots for each pup. The single coil is a little noisey on it's own, but the amount of headroom in the preamp makes up for it. |
fc_spoiler
Senior Member
Username: fc_spoiler
Post Number: 655
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 9:22 am: | |
I bought an '84 Aria Pro II SB Black 'n Gold two weeks ago.
Incredible bass for that tiny amount of money I've paid for it, the best "non Alembic" I've ever had.
 |
somatic
Member
Username: somatic
Post Number: 66
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 12:15 pm: | |
I strongly disagree with your statement. Alembic, is the the ULTIMATE BASS. Can you think of a better bass? I'll answer this for you, NO.
That's hilarious. You're telling me what my ultimate bass is?
I currently own three dozen basses, and have owned many more, and have enough experience to decide what I like. I don't need you're help in this regard. Telling me what is best for me is stupid and juvenile.
I doubt I will buy another new Alembic, though I'm not averse to another secondhand if it were local and at a decent price. That may change if your dollar continues it's freefall, but I doubt it'll fall far enough for it to be worthwhile. I am considering ordering a Status in a while, after some other things have been paid for. Does that state clearly enough for you what I think is better for me?
Play and enjoy what you like, and I'll do the same. |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 66
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 12:38 pm: | |
No, what you said was:
"I like my Alembics a whole lot, but they're not the "ultimate". No bass is,..."
Your last statement, you said with a generalization of all basses NONE (no bass) being "ULTIMATE".
This statement was your most interesting statement. To say that there's no existance of an "ultimate bass", when most on this board totally disagree with you.
I just thought I would poke at you a little, to understand what's an Ultimate bass and better yet, what bass, is the closest to being the ultimate?
Chil-lax, it all fun bro, no harm in ideas and I respect your opinion in either case. |
somatic
Member
Username: somatic
Post Number: 67
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 1:09 pm: | |
No, what you said was:
"I like my Alembics a whole lot, but they're not the "ultimate". No bass is,..."
Your last statement, you said with a generalization of all basses NONE (no bass) being "ULTIMATE".
I generally don't think there is an "ultimate" anything. Not basses, not cars, not bikes, not anything really.
I have preferences and they change over time. The bass that I've played, that I like the best and have liked best, is my XL2. It would likely be the the last one I would ever sell. I regretted selling my first one far more than the Alembic that also went at about the same time.
I still look for that old Distillate and would rebuy it if I could, but more from nostaligia than anything else as I was the original purchaser and there was some history for me attached to it.
This statement was your most interesting statement. To say that there's no existance of an "ultimate bass", when most on this board totally disagree with you.
So? Nearly everybody I know likes coffee. My best mate even built a roaster so he could roast his own. I loathe the stuff. Because the majority of people like something concerns me not a whit.
I follow the beat of my own drum.
I'm glad that you and others here love their Alembics. I'm happy with mine too. Fine instruments and I really like that it's a family run business and everyone there has been nice and very helpful to me whenever I've enquired or needed help.
I just thought I would poke at you a little, to understand what's an Ultimate bass :-) and better yet, what bass, is the closest to being the ultimate?
I think I answered that, but I might expand a little and say the "ultimate" anything is the one I enjoy most at the time. |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 67
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 1:57 pm: | |
I understand.
As for me, I use the term "Ultimate", because I believe the term exist, and thus, objects (in the present-tense) are Ultimate objects.
For example:
The other day, I needed to fix a speaker cabinet which required a hex key to fasten it. However, being that I didn't have the tool (the hex key) to fasten the nut, I used a pair of pliers instead.
I still got the job done, (fastened the nut) but life would have been so much easier if I'd had the hex key.
In short, the hex key was my Ultimate tool for the present need. |
somatic
Member
Username: somatic
Post Number: 68
Registered: 11-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 2:24 pm: | |
In short, the hex key was my Ultimate tool for the present need.
I would have said it was the "correct" tool for the job. Somehow I don't think a $50 version would have done it any better.
Cheers |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 68
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 04, 2007 - 2:52 pm: | |
Ok, call it "correct" tool. I can live with that...
Like fire, is the "ultimate" energy source for a good BBQ.
Alembic basses are compaired to what again?
|
eligilam
Member
Username: eligilam
Post Number: 73
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Monday, November 05, 2007 - 8:54 am: | |
This dialogue is right from the Ken Kesey playbook. |
aquaman
Junior
Username: aquaman
Post Number: 34
Registered: 9-2006
| | Posted on Monday, November 05, 2007 - 6:57 pm: | |
Flip,
The '84 Aria you bought is one of the non-Alembics that I have been hunting (really looks good, too). Glad to hear that you enjoy it. |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2699
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Monday, November 05, 2007 - 7:20 pm: | |
The Arias are very nice. I have the guitar version.
Bill, tgo |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 69
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, November 06, 2007 - 8:48 am: | |
Somatic, you are alright with me and you are a man of great taste too.
You are right, it was wrong to impose my values. Sorry man.
Peace. |
pace
Advanced Member
Username: pace
Post Number: 356
Registered: 4-2004
| | Posted on Thursday, November 08, 2007 - 3:57 pm: | |
That Aria wants me to dig up Master of Puppets.....
play 'er in good health!!!! |
anthenium
New
Username: anthenium
Post Number: 3
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 10, 2007 - 1:36 pm: | |
This probably sounds funny, but the BEST Playing basses I have found are Old High End Peaveys. I have a Rudy Sarzo Signature and a 1st Gen TL-5, and previously had a GV (5 String, Graphite neck, 18 Volt preamp). These late 80's - Early 90's Peaveys are INCREDIBLE! They were WAY Expensive in their day, but you can pick any one of these models up for $500 - $600 each. Unfortunately the "P" Word is the Kiss of Death. This is what I AM playing, as I don't get my '93 Bubinga Epic util Tuesday...And my Reverend Rumblefish!
Tony |
angelboy
Member
Username: angelboy
Post Number: 100
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, November 18, 2007 - 1:50 am: | |
Jaydee!
www.jaydeeguitars.com/html/index.asp |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 86
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 18, 2007 - 8:34 am: | |
I already like the name "Jaydee's" (like the movie from the 70's "JD's revenge").
Anyway, Paul thank you for sharing this information with me. I never heard of this company.
JD basses sure does look like an Alembic, and they even build them with the XLR's too!(only JD use's "a three pin" modular jack.) JD basses have the Alembic shape I love. The wooden pickups, are dam, yummy too (that is different!). The body with first glance, has Alembic written all over it; and even the bridge says this too.
Hey, if Mark King loves them, heck its probably another bad ass bass. And yes, if Alemebic was not around, I probably would consider owning this bass no doubt.
Thanks for sharing this information. |
white_cloud
Junior
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 45
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, November 22, 2007 - 4:51 am: | |
Hey, I have got to tell you I had a Jaydee supernatural back in the late eighties..dont even go there!!! They looked very cool but were not even in the same league as many other good basses around at the time never mind Alembics! Mark king originally bought one because he couldnt find an Alembic in his local muso emporiums..he saw the JD, thought it looked like an Alembic and bought that. Soon after L42 made it big, Jaydee noticed Marks preference for their basses and quickly cut him a nice endorsement deal! Turned out to be a very high profile piece of fortune for JD! Jaydees had a weak output and a poor tonal range in my opinion. I bought mine on impulse and regretted it. I was lucky enough to own a WAL custom shortly after and that had a KILLER tone, far superior than the Jaydee! I was also lucky enough to own a VIGIER passion, that was also far superior to the Jaydee. When it comes to Jaydee all that glitters aint gold my friends!!! |
bigbadbill
Senior Member
Username: bigbadbill
Post Number: 404
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, November 22, 2007 - 5:48 am: | |
I've played many Jaydees and they've varied enormously. I've also played quite a lot of Wals and so have they. The first Jaydee I had wasn't good. The 2nd Jaydee I had was great but I had to sell it because it was too heavy; it played and sounded killer though. The easiest-playing bass I've ever played was a Jaydee (Roger TVR will back me up on that because he played the same one); the setup was unbelievable. My Wal Custom wa actually one of the least successful basses I've ever owned; I px-d my Pedulla MVP for it and unfortunately it turned out the Pedulla was much better(IMO). |
hendixclarke
Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 100
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, November 22, 2007 - 10:00 am: | |
Look, we all know Alembic is #1 and I'll just leave it at that.
Sounds like JayDee's are not even #20 on the list from the sound you guys made...
Hey, what can I say... I never even heard of the bass before until "Angelboy". After looking at the bass, I said it was a an alembic copy.
Now I remember this bass....
Oh yeah, this was the bass "Michael Henderson" showed on his album cover back in the 80's. Yeah, I thought it was cool looking bass back then. However, I never knew who made them.
I can't comment on the action, because I never played one. But based on you guys, it sounds creepy but I don't know... I would love to play one for myself. |
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan
Post Number: 1696
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 1:13 am: | |
Pace,
I notice you mentioned about the Godlyke, "The single coil is a little noisey on it's own, but the amount of headroom in the preamp makes up for it."
You cannot compensate for a noisey pickup with headroom in the preamp - once you have a source of noise in the circuit, you can only amplify it. If it's nice sounding noise, then by all means go for it, but if not then replace the source of the noise. |
bigbadbill
Senior Member
Username: bigbadbill
Post Number: 405
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 4:13 am: | |
Hendrixclarke, I think you misunderstood my point. Some Jaydees are fantastic. I've played more good ones than bad ones; in fact I can quite categorically state I've played good and bad examples of every make of bass guitar out there, Alembic included. Two of the worst basses I've played (IMO) were a couple of 70s Alembic Series basses. My 2nd Jaydee was bought in preference to a 1980 Alembic Series 1; it played and sounded just as good, looked great, and was £1500 cheaper, so I'm certainly not saying they're bad. You just have to find one that you like, which is true of any make. Jaco played a Jaydee and apparently loved it, so much so that Jaydee built some guitars for him which were unfortunately not delivered before he died. Mark King also played them for years, so they can't be that bad!!
When Jaydees became popular via Mark King in the early-ish 80s, John Diggins (Jaydee - get it?) expanded his operation and had many people working for him building basses trying to keep up with orders - he has described it as "a nightmare". It's possible that quality may have suffered in that period. Eventually, unhappy with this situation he downscaled again and now there is just him and his son (IIRC). He is very much a custom builder too, so all of his basses will vary somewhat. |
white_cloud
Member
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 51
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 12:42 pm: | |
On reflection I think thats a very valid point, perhaps Jaydee became a victim of their success for a period of time. A lot of british players went wild for them because of Mark King, but I have heard that he loved Status basses just as much at that time! Status basses definately had a more consistant sound,tone and feel purely because they had graphite necks! I have heard that Jaco loved Jaydee basses and I guess it wouldnt have mattered what he played...it would still sounded like Jaco! |
fc_spoiler
Senior Member
Username: fc_spoiler
Post Number: 665
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 12:50 pm: | |
Jaco with Jaydee: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XKr_6MzZTw |
white_cloud
Member
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 53
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 1:58 pm: | |
Very cool footage, I love Frank Gambale. Jaco isnt a bad player either |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 101
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 2:09 pm: | |
No, I understood your point, but you were not the only person I was directiong my comments. I try to stay neutral on the matter because like I said: I never played a JayDee before. At face value, I am, and always favorable for any bass company that gets in this game with their ideas; and for the most part, deserves my personal respect for such an achievement. Heck, to have Jaco P. And Mark K. play your design of bass, is one hell of an honor. But at the same time, these guys could make any bass sound great. But, they chosen JayDee and that said something of value to me.
White_Cloud said:
"Hey, I have got to tell you I had a Jaydee supernatural back in the late eighties..dont even go there!!!..."
Music companies are always under contraints of COST, QUALITY and TIME and TIMING.... to get it right consistanly.
I bought a brand new battery for my motorcycle, I tried to charge it, and it woundn't charge. Guess what, I exchanged it for a new one "same brand" and it worked fine. As long as the majority of the band is consistant, I stay loyal. However, if this become a consistant problem, I witch brands.
Quality control only means: "make the majority of your products with Zero defects -> translate to: 95/100% or 6 Sigma quality.
Like you said:
"Two of the worst basses I've played (IMO) were a couple of 70s Alembic Series basses."
Yeah, I agree. I played Alembics from the 80's, 90's and 2000 and I love my 70's S1 better than any of them "hands down". What's good for me, is not necessary good for others.
Maybe its the wood, the materials, the cut, electronics... who knows. It's just a matter of taste and taking control and being in charge of knowing what your like's and dis-like's in an open mind.
Heck, I might one day get a chance to play a JayDee, and love it even better than any Alembic. It's possible. But out of percentages in playing many basses, who failed to switch my opinion from Alembics, the chances are, JayDee probably will not switch my mind, but I am open for the chance to be blown away...
Hey, the world is owned by nobody. Alembic has to keep fighting to stay king of the hill. If, Alembic slip from the stand point of the present tense, in their new lines of basses, it still has no impact on me because I am not shopping for a brand new bass. I have an old one, which I love more than anything they got in the showroom of any guitar company.
In otherwords, quality last a long time. "I am going to drive this bass until the neck falls off..." |
white_cloud
Member
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 54
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 3:08 pm: | |
It is purely a matter of taste Hal. Jaco may have loved his Jaydee, but he loved his beat up old Fender more than anything else he ever played! Mark King loved his Jaydee, but he loved his Alembic more when he made the switch! Geddy lee loved his Ricky 4001, then went from a 72 Jazz to a Steinberger, was blown away by a Wal and ended back up with the jazz!
The thing is I can only call it as I see it in my honest and unbiased opinion from the experiences that I have had!
Jaydee basses are probably as hard to pick up in the US as Alembics are in the UK. As someone who has Owned a Jaydee I thought it would be interesting to share my experience with USA bass lovers who have maybe not had the chance to pick up a Jaydee. I was perhaps unlucky with the Jaydee axe, but the reality of that particular instrument was that it was trouble from the word go. The build quality was not what I thought it would be, and on reflection I owned a Musicman Stingray at the same time that was everything that the Jaydee wasnt..punchy, powerful and reliable! But hey, thats life!
Anyway, I had better call it a day with this one or else John Diggins may take out a contract on me!!! I can see the news headlines now..
"Man beaten to death with handmade Alembic lookalike!"  |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 102
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Friday, November 23, 2007 - 4:29 pm: | |
Damn Right!
I seen that video of Jaco with the JayDee, and it didn't even sound close as good as the beat-up; bar-fight looking; sledge hammer of a Fender bass Jaco played.
THAT BASS MADE SOUNDS NOTHING CAN COPY. JACO CREATED SOUNDS, NOT OF THIS EARTH.
The JayDee bass, had a less fluid sound, and it looked like a struggle for Jaco to play. It looked like we was fighting the thing to act/play right (as if he was taming the thing). He still sound OK, but not the Jaco signature sound (melodic sound) I loved. The JayDee even looked ackward to play.
Also, White_Cloud...
Man, stay honest bro. I respect your statements and insights. To know what your want, based on what you played, is a cool position to be in, because experience is king. Besides, you corrected your problem with the very best bass in the world.
Nuff-said...
IMO Jacko, is/was a better Bass Player than Mark King anyway IMO. So Jaco, was all one needed to say. Jaco Played a Fender Bass, and those basses are one of the most non-consistant basses ever!
Never where there two Fenders basses just alike anywhere, and I bet, that was the reason Jaco "just" kept his bass until his end. Like Jaco, the Fender Bass could never be recreated again. I miss him man... I really do. |
white_cloud
Member
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 55
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 12:23 am: | |
He was the best. I miss him too |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 103
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 7:58 am: | |
Life is not supposed to be an upswing everyday. Life is living every emotional mood and is good for the sake of life it self.
It’s good to be happy, sad, bored, angry, confused, sympathetic, creative, boastful, laidback, jovial, merciful, compassionate, directional, robotic, ill, sexy, cool, persuasive, perceptive, cheated, conquered, vanquished, and rational.
Once drugs enter the body, all normal moods of life (above), becomes out of synchronization and order. You’re sad, when you should be happy and rational when you should be laidback, or feeling conquered when you’re vanquished.
Drugs kills this ordering, synchronization and sequencing of moods. I call it "emotional moderation of mood controllers or monitor receptors." |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2728
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 8:30 am: | |
Sorry. Does anybody else try to post, get an error message that it didn't post, and then find out that it did, resulting in double posts? That's what happened here.
(Message edited by lbpesq on November 24, 2007) |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2729
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 8:33 am: | |
Hal:
What's this, "The War On Drugs Vists Alembicland"? Are you including ALL drugs, or is this your "War on Some Drugs", like our govt's? Caffeine, Alcohol, Tobacco, and a host of others that are openly advertised and make pharmaceutical companies rich are okey dokey, but use others and you're put in a cage.
Much of the music many of us enjoy which brought us to Alembic in the first place was influenced by drugs, and IMHO, in a very positive way. The original Alembic players, like The Dead, the Airplane, and the whole San Francisco sound, were heavily influenced by altered consciousness. And what about The Beatles, Louie Armstrong and American Jazz?
Hey, drugs aren't evil or magical. They are like everything else, a tool that can be a postive or a negative, that can be used or abused. Painting them out to be an automatic trip to Bizarro World is far too simplistic.
Bill, tgo
(What's that I hear ... a can opener cutting through the top of a metallic vessel of worms perhaps?) |
speicky
Advanced Member
Username: speicky
Post Number: 237
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 8:46 am: | |
Bill, these error messages occur every once in a while... i think Moder Dave has set up the system this way to gather dues paying members more quickly ;-) |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 104
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 9:11 am: | |
When a musican plays good music, I am not wondering in my mind:
"what drugs s/he on to help them sound so great?"
or,
"We need to pay homage and be thankful for drugs for there would had never been a greater company of musical geniuses without them playing while being stoned."
Are you kidding me???
Anyway, we were talking about Jaco in context to drug abuse, and not the war on drugs...
Look, if you need drugs to play great music, then that's you and with all respect.
However, as for me, I just need a guitar, and I'm cool. You can do what makes you happy bro. It's your life, and I have no rights to judge you and what you do. DO YOUR THANG (As we'd said back in the day...) |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2731
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 9:34 am: | |
Hal:
Actually, no one was talking about drugs on this thread until you brought it up out of left field. The Jaco references were part of a discussion about JayDee and Fender basses.
Secondly, nothing in my post suggested that I believed drugs were mandatory, or that we should worship drugs.
And, of course, you NEVER drink coffee, soda, or a beer when you play, right?
Bill, tgo
(Message edited by lbpesq on November 24, 2007) |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 105
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 10:52 am: | |
You're putting words in my mouth....
I never said (you said) drugs was mandatory...
I never said (you said) worship drugs...
I don't need to say anything about what you said, one can, just simply read you message, and make up their own mind as to what you believe.
If you bring up Jaco (Hendrix even), you can reference Fender guitars, basses, JayDee, and Alembics too. One could even discuss Jaco's death and the causes. If you bring in the causes, then drugs come into the discussion.
These posts are conversations and coffee table discussions. One topic, can and usually does, lead to another or other discussions.
If you want to flow into another discussion, it's cool, do so; but don't put words in my mouth, because it is not necessary to make your point.
I don't hide behind this keyboard. The things, I write, are the things I would say to you, or any respectable human being. We all suffered losses of loved ones due to drugs, and, I have never grieved over the loss of someone dying from a cup of coffee or a can of soda. So, don't sell me this crap man, because you are only playing yourself. (Now, frame this statement...)
The facts of the matter, people were always using drugs and will always use drugs and no government law or elected official could ever change this. Nothing can control you, but you. Also, I don't need coffee to play music, nor a can of soda. I just need a good guitar, for the rest is over kill. |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2733
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 11:15 am: | |
Hal:
Your words (allegely paraphrasing my post):
"We need to pay homage and be thankful for drugs for there would had never been a greater company of musical geniuses without them playing while being stoned."
You're right, you didn't say "worship". you said "pay homage" . I sincerely apoligize for this egregious error on my part.
As for Jaco, I agree it is true that a discussion of his life could certainly reasonably include drugs. But such was not the case anywhere on this thread until you brought it up. You then flamed me, stating, (again in your own words) "we were talking about Jaco in context to drug abuse". Actually we weren't. Go through this thread - not one reference to drugs, regarding Jaco or otherwise, until your unsolicited anti-drug diatribe.
As for coffee and soda, many people die each year from the effects of stiumulants and sugar. There have been serious health concerns raised about the parade of fake sugars they have put in diet sodas over the years. Heck, 1100-1500 people die from aspirin poisoning every year in the U.S. In the recorded history of mankind, not a single person has ever died from an overdose of cannabis.
The question wasn't whether you "needed" coffee, soda or alcohol, when you played, but, rather, whether you ever indulged in such things. If you have, you have used drugs. And just as you don't "need" stimulants, sugar, or alcohol to play, most musicians I know who enjoy the occasional toke while playing don't "need" it to play either.
Bill, tgo |
white_cloud
Member
Username: white_cloud
Post Number: 56
Registered: 11-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 11:34 am: | |
Im no expert by any means, but I guess the problem with Jaco was that prior to taking drugs he had deep rooted emotional issues that he couldnt deal with. He couldnt communicate his feelings to others or ask for help until it was too late. He had a tendancy for wild mood swings and, in truth, probably had serious mental health issues for most of his life! Even his personal relationships with his wife/subsequent partners were extremely volatile. He was worshipped by people, fans and hangers on who couldnt say "no" to him and he felt constantly under pressure to live up to the crazy personna that he had created for himself by acting in an outrageous way. He was an wild attention seeker (as many top performers are!!) for whom the boudrays became dangerously unclear.
Now...
Add HEAVY drug AND alcohol abuse to the above mix and WHAM! Meltdown
There is an old saying about anything taken in moderation being okay, but Jaco couldnt do moderation. It just wasnt in him! I know many hard drinkers, one or two who have become alcoholics, but the rest dont cross the line despite often drinking just as much. What is it inside all of us that determines the limit that we have to excede to become an addict?
I think abuse of any substance is ultimately destrucive eventually. Be it alcohol, drugs, food, cigarettes...you name it! But thats just my opinion!
One thing I know for sure is this;
Jaco shouldnt have done drugs |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 106
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 12:22 pm: | |
Sugars are the building block of life. You can't live without sugars period. Even knowing this, I am still very concerned about adding too much sugar in my diet.
I totally agree with you about Jaco and anyone who becomes controlled behind controlled substances and on top of this, he had mental problems too? That was two trains pointed in eachother's direction heading to collide...
Now as far as a Mary-j's, I have no focus here, no more of me trying to figure out whether or not a Platypus is a Duck or a Beaver mix and even the benefits. In otherwords, I am confused even why its even considered illicit with hard liquors having a huge green light. It's crazy. |
pace
Advanced Member
Username: pace
Post Number: 359
Registered: 4-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 8:25 am: | |
Adriaan,
The signal to noise ratio will always remain the same in all preamp and buffer circuits? 18v vs. 9v vs. passive? That's news to me. |
oujeebass
Intermediate Member
Username: oujeebass
Post Number: 107
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 9:11 am: | |
The main pressure on Jaco wasn't alcohol or drugs, or even his mental health. These were all manifestations of his realization that the music world ,as he saw it, was changing for the worse. The late 70's/early 80's was a case of "it was the best of times it, was the worst of times". I don't know if it truely has gotten any better, being that it has been categorized to the inth degree. We are also fortunate that all these great artists have set the standards for what we call classic. Alembics were originally designed in a effort to overcome the short comings of amplification/sound systems of the day. That all being said, there is no overcoming the need for talent no matter how much your bass costs. I remember being offered $300 in 1985 for a Les Paul Deluxe that I paid $150 for. I saw that same guitar going for $2800 recently. That all being driven by the fact the whole scene has become a country club of sorts. "Hey Bob,check out my Big Bertha in platinum." So If you see me running through the park naked with a bass of high value, just direct me to the nearest country club. |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 107
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 10:27 am: | |
Man, that was deep.
In other words, Jaco foresaw hip-hop, rap, grunge, and boys_pop groups as the beginning, to the end of good music.
Jaco was his own worse friend. Being famous has its perks and drawbacks. But, this is with everything. Anything you see value, has the opposite devastation.
For example:
You purchase a guitar at a yard sale for $50 bucks. Your perceived value was about $75 (that would be your limit value to buy)…
Anyway, you’re happy with the thing for years, and you jam with your friends and you’re enjoying the thing and all. Then someone knocks it over and it breaks. You’re cool about it because you only paid $50 bucks. But, then you find out years later, the damn thing was worth a few thousands of dollars… How do you feel now?
You see where I am getting at?
Most would be pretty pissed-off, and few would be laughing about it. It all comes down to your experiences. Believe me, I been the guy who would had been pissed-off “royally”. However, the older I get, the more I just leaned, not to even care because value is completely subjective. I see my neighbor (an elder gentleman in is 80’s) driving this old Plymouth. “Just as happy as he could be…” In other words,
There are no other words… just live and grow wise. |
oujeebass
Intermediate Member
Username: oujeebass
Post Number: 108
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 10:50 am: | |
"In other words, Jaco foresaw hip-hop, rap, grunge, and boys_pop groups as the beginning, to the end of good music."
No, he saw that the crowds just really didnt care. Music was back to being superfical and that was what many of his generation fought to over come. Hendrix saw this too. The antics to get the audience attention was a double edged sword. The music all proved the test of time ,but the way they got it to us took its toll. Alembic basses are the best at making sure that if you own one, your not just clowning around,because you will look really silly. |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 108
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 12:12 pm: | |
Hendrix was tired of his money getting riped off and the fans wanting him to act like damn fool. He was getting to the age in his live, where he was leaving antics and effects unless it was meaningful to the music. Machine gun was that "oil painting" example of when to "almost" kill a guitar with emotion but show mercy for another show. Fans were pissed off because they were hoping to see him destroy his guitar "ALL THE TIME".
I said this once before, but I will say it again...
When starting a career in the performing arts, it is very important that you constantly recreate your image. If you stay doing one thing too long, you become defined as that guy that does this or that...
This was hell for Jaco and Hendrix. They wanted so badly to do other things, but their managers and fans said "in their heads..." they would fail if they did something else. But this was all in their head. Sure, they would have experiences losses in the transformation, but they would have loss a greater number of fans if they didn't change because people would have out grown their music (eventually) anyway.
Yeah, it was a vicious cycle for them to deal with, and it is now.
Hey, success is the road getting there, and not at the point in being there… In other words, don’t look at life as “one demented” goal to achieve instead; look at each goal as a minor milestones toward self awareness and try to deal with the crap along the way...
I believe Hendrix was head into that direction, and his music was getting even better, but people wanted that wild-drug-anthem “Purple Haze”.
Sammy Davis Jr. was known an loved for all his beautiful melodies and songs of the 50's, 60's and 70's but most people remembers him for: “The Candy Man”. Sammy said he hated "that song" more than all his songs, and yet (like from a Twilight Zone episode) people always wants him to sing it. It had to be, one of his worse nightmares on stage and off.
It also reminds me of the story of the mythological story King Kong. He was loved and worshiped by his people. He shown great strength enough where no animal in his domain, could dominate him. He was proud and at peace with his knowledge of his-self.
However, when taken out of his element, he becomes manipulate and confused with drugs toward eventually becoming a clown. Living with such humiliation from were you were, to where you are now... you could loses your mind, for "everything there were".
Merry Christmas, HO HO HO. |
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq
Post Number: 2735
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 12:28 pm: | |
Hal:
Now you blame drugs for King Kong's problems too? Isn't that more than a bit absurd. Most people believe it was the airplanes that got the Big Monkey (I believe there is even film of this), but Carl Denim always contended that it wasn't the planes, it was beauty that killed the beast. Hey, do you blame Hurricane Katrina on drugs too? Global warming? The war in Iraq? World hunger? Disease? Pestilence? The Rockies losing the World Series? Is it all the fault of DRUGS!!!!!!?????????
Bill, tgo
(Message edited by lbpesq on November 25, 2007) |
hendixclarke
Intermediate Member
Username: hendixclarke
Post Number: 109
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 1:41 pm: | |
"Now you blame King Kong on drugs too?"
No, How can I blame King Kong? He was captured with drugs... and it was never his will to leave his home in the first place.
Didn't you know that?
"Most people believe it was the airplanes that got the Big Monkey (I believe there is even film of this), but Carl Denim always contended that it wasn't the planes, it was beauty that killed the beast."
King Kong died the day he was druged, and taken from his home. The chains; woman; the airplanes; the bullets; and the fall was only stages toward the paths of a humiliating death.
"Hey, do you blame Hurricane Katrina on drugs too? Global warming? The war in Iraq? World hunger? Disease? Pestilence? The Rockies losing the World Series? Is it all the fault of DRUGS!!!!!!????????? "
Now you sound obnoxious.
So, Im going to hold my comments. No offense, but I feel a little funny replying back to you. You remind me of the guy who seeks comic relief after sounding off in a foolish way. I was serious, in my message, your trying to steer issues.
You also think you're slick...
You don't need to know my social political philosophies as it relates to our world. Just put you hands on you mouth when you cough, and that would be enough (like the song goes) to understand my views.
In China, flies were a problem. A wise man said, "Let everyone kill one or more flies per day..."
The people organized and followed. By the end of the week, the fly problem was solved "just like that..."
In other words, if you have a spark of hope, then you can have a fire of a solution.
Merry Christmas (Happy Birthday Jesus, and I thank you!) |
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan
Post Number: 1699
Registered: 6-2002
| | Posted on Monday, November 26, 2007 - 1:22 am: | |
Pace - if you can hear me over all this clatter -
What I said was that that single coil pickup is a source of noise inside the circuit. This noise is part of the signal that is going into the preamp.
Any preamp will add some degree of distortion and background noise to the signal, which gives you the S/N ratio of the preamp. A preamp that adds less noise is said to have more headroom, which is just another way of saying it has a better S/N ratio.
If noise is already present in the signal going into the preamp, this noise will be amplified above the noise level of the preamp. This is regardless of the S/N ratio.
By the way, no 18v system is guaranteed to have a better S/N ratio than passive or 9v. Why do you think Alembic can still get by with 9v for the non-Series electronics?
(Message edited by adriaan on November 26, 2007) |
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