| Author | Message | ||
| stmjenkins
New Username: stmjenkins Post Number: 1 Registered: 7-2008 |
I recently decided to start playing again after 15 years and want to buy the Alembic I have wanted since I began playing 30 years ago. Besides knowing the basses played by my inspirations from the 70's, I do not know much else about Alembics. I recently played an eight string Spyder which was a very enjoyable experience. I am willing to spend up to $6000 but want to find a balance between quality and value. I want to re-learn several styles of play and I am looking for a versatile instrument. I would appreciate any advice from your vast experience. | ||
| ajdover
Senior Member Username: ajdover Post Number: 632 Registered: 11-2003 |
Steven, Welcome to the club! Your choice of Alembic is, like any other instrument you choose a very personal thing. Many factors such as playing style, musical genres, physical factors, personal preference, etc. all influence which Alembic is for you. Set neck or neck through? Ebony laminates or other woods? Thin neck taper or standard? LEDs or no LEDs? All depends on how you intend to use the instrument really. I have five Alembics, and have owned two more. I've got a custom Series II under construction. I can say with some confidence you can't really go wrong with any model you choose, but it boils down to what works best for you. What I'd do if I were you is if it is at all possible, play as many different models you can before taking the plunge. If you're going to spend up to $6K on an instrument, it might be worth a drive or even a flight to a dealer before making the investment. Better to know what you want and like before buying I guess. If this isn't possible, I'd go the used route. Alembics, after their initial depreciation hit rarely go below a certain price point on the used market. Epics, Orions, and Essences go for anywhere from $1000 to $1800 depending on condition, options, number of strings, etc. Stanley Clarke's, Rogue's, Europas are more expensive, say $2,000-$3,000 with the same set of variables. Signature models are more than that, and Series instruments generally fall in the $3,000 range and up. Buying used allows you to try different instruments if a dealer visit isn't possible and in most cases recoup your costs if you decide that particular model isn't what you're looking for. Also, most Alembic owners I know of are almost obsessive about taking care of their instruments. Rarely do you see one with the "mojo" say of a vintage Fender or Gibson (which usually have the snot beat out of them IME). It will be in good shape in most cases when you get it. If you can get a relatively cheap flight to Florida, I strongly recommend Bass Central, owned by Dave LaRue and Beaver Felton. I can't recommend them strongly enough - extremely knowledgeable staff, great people to do business with, and their care for their customer is unparalleled in my experience. I've purchased three basses from them, an X2 wireless system, and other things. They're the best IMHO. You also have dealers in Washington and Utah, as well as California if that is better for you. Finally, you might want to see if there are other Alembic owners in your area and arrange a get together. I've done this here in NC and it was great - got to meet some really great people (to include your club moderator, Dave Houck), and play some amazing instruments. It would be cheaper than flying or driving, and you'll be able to connect with other Alembic owners who can give you more advice. Best of all, the fellowship is worth the trip alone. I wish you success in your quest. I think you'll find, like most of us here have that an Alembic bass or guitar is truly a magical thing. If I can be of any further help, feel free to contact me either here or via email. Best of luck! Alan | ||
| tbrannon
Senior Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 805 Registered: 11-2004 |
Excellent advice from Alan... I'd second the 'buy used' approach. You can normally sell any used Alembic instrument for the same price you bought it for (less shipping). If you're considering a custom it might not be a bad idea to pick up a used bass or two to find out what you really want before you start ordering a custom. Good luck! Toby |
