| Author | Message | ||
| mario_farufyno
Member Username: mario_farufyno Post Number: 61 Registered: 9-2008 |
Does anybody tryed this new Stanley Clarke's Bass (spellbinder)? It must sound great... (Because it looks SOOOO ugly). Why, Stan? (tears) Shame on you! :-( | ||
| pierreyves
Advanced Member Username: pierreyves Post Number: 344 Registered: 11-2006 |
not so good the sound.... Spellbinder's sound!! | ||
| funkyjazzjunky
Advanced Member Username: funkyjazzjunky Post Number: 320 Registered: 5-2007 |
Ugly is an under-statement. | ||
| blackelan
Junior Username: blackelan Post Number: 38 Registered: 7-2007 |
Here is a original Spellbinder for 1500 http://neworleans.craigslist.org/msg/1000874369.html | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 3502 Registered: 7-2004 |
The Spellbinder reminds me of the old Daion Savage.  Bill, tgo | ||
| pas
Intermediate Member Username: pas Post Number: 154 Registered: 3-2003 |
Over the summer when I saw Stanley with RTF & SMV, he didn't touch the Spellbinder once...Alembic or stand-up. | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 886 Registered: 6-2002 |
I saw the video - pretty damn AWESOME!!! Sorry guys, I was blown away. Stanley (like Jaco) proves that the magic is in the hands and not the instrument. Ok, that Bass IS ugly as hell, but if I don't look at it and just listen to what he's doing, I can't help but be impressed. It's still Stanley.  | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2013 Registered: 2-2006 |
Good call Bill, it sure does. OO | ||
| bassfingers
Intermediate Member Username: bassfingers Post Number: 170 Registered: 11-2005 |
I'm hands down with rami on this.I'd never choose a Spellbinder over an Alembic (I mean c'mon,who would?).However I'm reminded of Jaco's 'Modern Electric Bass' video where he plays Jerry Jemmott's Abe Rivera fretless.There's absolutely no doubt who is playing.That's the feeling I get watching Stanley on this. (Message edited by bassfingers on January 31, 2009) | ||
| slawie
Junior Username: slawie Post Number: 42 Registered: 8-2002 |
That bass is as ugly as a hat full of arseholes! | ||
| mario_farufyno
Member Username: mario_farufyno Post Number: 65 Registered: 9-2008 |
Stan is the Man, he will always be and... Ok, the Spellbinder sounds fine to me (it has some nice subtle acoustic quality on its tone and sustain), but - to me - great Bass Guitar will ever be Alembic. Not prejudice, just a simply matter of taste... | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 366 Registered: 6-2007 |
Platypus - is it a duck or a beaver... who cares, it can still swim. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 367 Registered: 6-2007 |
Yeah, it's ugly but if Stanley approves, who's going to stand in his way and say the bass sucks.... (I hear the Crickets chirping from all the peace and silents...). Those who know, don't speak... and those who don't know, talks... | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2018 Registered: 2-2006 |
Stanley may sell them but he doesn't play them. Last year at the RTF concert ne played his Alembic and his Upright only. There was Spellbinder on stage but it never left the stand. OO | ||
| lieber
New Username: lieber Post Number: 1 Registered: 2-2009 |
It is a great thing that we have free thought and choice! Everyone’s opinion is correct and equally wrong about Stan and his basses. Stanley own and plays tons of basses,(only 4 strings though) Alembic basses are absolutely fantastic. Their designs and electronics are the singular reason for my initial interest in building guitars, period. Stanley loves his Alembics; they bring a comfort zone on stage, no different then one wearing a favorite old pair of shoes. This doesn’t mean that THE bassist of our time sits on his laurels as it relates to pushing new development of bass designs and concepts and sounds. Stanley had a hand in designing the Spellbinder, aspects of the body design and electronics. So when you all dis as ugly , sounds like crap etc…. you insult Stanley, myself , oh and Alembic by being so silly. As a previous person expressed, almost 100% of the actual sound is emitted through the hands of the player, a great instrument certainly doesn’t hurt but is not the magic. peace, Thomas Lieber | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 3513 Registered: 7-2004 |
Mr. Lieber, welcome to the club. I looked at your website and have a couple of questions: 1. The opening page shows your "American Beauty Classic" guitar, along with the text "This is the original ornamental guitar design built from drawings and templates circa 1974." The guitar pictured has what appears to be the identical shape of Jerry Garcia's Tiger and Rosebud guitars credited to builder Doug Irwin. Your guitar even has an eagle flying over the earth logo, just like the Irwin guitars. Did Irwin steal the design and logo from you? Are the similarities in design and logo just a coincidence? Were you Irwin's partner? Is the Eagle over the earth really your logo and not Irwin's? I really don't get it. 2. Under the "Butternut Guitar" section, the text states: "we have been involved in designing and producing guitars for some of the music industry's giants, Paul McCartney, Jerry Garcia, Stanley Clarke, Phil Lesh, John Wetten, Chris Stein, Tom Chapin etc..." I am a big time Deadhead and have always had an interest in the Dead's gear. Which of Jerry's and Phil's instruments did you help design and produce? Bill, the guitar one | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 3514 Registered: 7-2004 |
Mr. Lieber: I just looked more closely at your site and realized I hadn't noticed the following text at the bottom: "Ornamental body shape and deluxe logo designed by luthier Thomas Lieber for D.Irwin and Co." So I guess you actually designed Tiger & Rosebud and Irwin's logo. That answers my question #1 above. Did you design Wolf too? And I'm still curious as to which Lesh instrument(s) you designed. Bill, tgo | ||
| zezozeceglutz
New Username: zezozeceglutz Post Number: 7 Registered: 9-2008 |
Mr. Lieber posted some interesting history and pictures (including Phil's osage orange bass in for "detailing," his Garcia-shaped Irwin, and some other guitars including a maple-topped Garcia) over at rukind: http://www.rukind.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=309&t=4563&hilit=+lieber | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 7504 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hi Thomas; welcome to the board! Ken; thanks for the link! | ||
| pierreyves
Advanced Member Username: pierreyves Post Number: 355 Registered: 11-2006 |
sorry, but what you do as battle, where is the truth ?? As european people from Switzerland, I don't understand... who build original: who did what???? | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 889 Registered: 6-2002 |
What is an instrument anyway? It's a tool. It could be the most beautiful $20,000 work of art, or it could be something that you paid $90 for. But remember that in the right hands, such an instrument revolutionized the very Bass itself and how it's played. From what I've read, most people who tried Jaco's Bass were NOT impressed. Victor Bailey stated that the "neck was dead, the action was high and the strings were old. But when Jaco played it, it sang like nobody's business!". Plus it looked like something you might find in a dumpster. I think that the main reason the old Jazz Basses are so revered is because of their association with Jaco. I personally don't find anything special in them (lucky to find one with a straight neck and that doesn't buzz and hum). Stanley's a big enough artist that he can sell his name on any product (which is entirely within his right) regardless of what anyone thinks. I don't really care what he plays. He's an artist and a businessman. He can do (and play) what he wishes. It doesn't change who he is. And beauty IS in the eye of the beholder. Be it an old beat up Jazz Bass, an Alembic Series II or a Spellbinder, we all have a right to our opinions. Rami | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 370 Registered: 6-2007 |
Nobody expected the original designer to check in. Yeah, see... Thomas Lieber built the (original) Spellbinder with Stanley completely in mind... (not us). Like I said, if Stanley approves, who's going to stand in his way and say the bass sucks.... Thomas, you are cool with me... Thanks for your kind words, which is wisdom to those with ears to listen with respect, and the freedoms, choices provides. | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2032 Registered: 2-2006 |
Hello Thomas and welcome. I understand exactly how Stanley feels. After getting used to something for YEARS of playing it becomes and extension of yourself. I wonder how many of us here have instruments that we like but just seem to not get played for that very reason. And I for one don't think the bass is ugly at all, different and unique, but definately NOT ugly. It kind of has a nostalgic 70's look to it. I second Hal, your cool with me! OO | ||
| lieber
New Username: lieber Post Number: 2 Registered: 2-2009 |
I was Doug’s first luthier apprentice.1974 thru the end of 77 The (tiger) Doug and I referred to that design as "The Garcia" We specifically called it that because our intent was to create our generations "Les Paul" That body design was one of a series that I designed for D.Irwin guitars late 74. The deluxe logo I designed for Pete Sears Bass 76. On the Garcia, Doug speced out all of the inlay's designs and wood choice combinations. Doug did all the re-sawing and dimensioning of the wood components, I later bled the oils out of the Coco Bolo and the Vermilion and then laminated the body wing halves. Yes this design was originally neck through. I had rough carved the neck blank and then the project sat for awhile. It wasn't until the Sears project that we realized Jerry's guitar needed to be a set neck design, not to interrupt the esthetic beauty of the arched Coco Bolo top. A center block was created for the body comprised of the same wood sandwich, when assembled with the body wings an evident seam resulted, hence the 1/16 inch brass that runs parallel to the strings. The instrument was completed years after I had left D.Irwin and Co. Following my departure from Irwin, I spent a year working with Steve Klein, creating the Spider Grinder Bass prototype with an asymmetrical Kasha bracing system. peace, Thomas | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 371 Registered: 6-2007 |
My ugly remarks followed my "Platypus" remarks - is it a duck or a beaver... who cares, it can still swim. Meaning: What people think about Platypus being ugly... WHO CARES, IT STILL SWIMS. And a Spellbinder is still a bass. In other words, You can't please everybody, and if you did, it would be only with 2 exact things: 1. Drinking Water, and 2. Breathing Air ...the rest is a complete guess. Peace. | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 890 Registered: 6-2002 |
It's also important to remember that many artists who endorse products do it for financial compensation and are contractually required to display and play it onstage. Who knows if they even believe in the product or not. Who wouldn't want the endorsement of someone of Stanley's stature? Jaco also endorsed many products but always remained loyal to what he liked most. I don't think he officially endorsed Fender, but they certainly owe him alot of credit. I don't know about the Alembic/Stanley Clarke relationship either, but I know that it's what he's most associated with. I find the Spellbinder styling not to my taste, but that's just my opinion. I think a musical genius like Stanley Clarke could make magic with a broomstick and an old bucket. Art is subjective, if everybody felt the same about it what would be the point? Rami (Message edited by rami on February 10, 2009) | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 372 Registered: 6-2007 |
Rami, I completely agree with you... Music is big business, and Stanley surely must be aware of his audience and those who are influenced by his personal and business choices. Stanley is only another human being who tapped in to learning his God given gifts. He was not born with a bass in his hands, the tools he uses, are available for everyone (who has the money). However, having the tools with no technique, is a waste of money unless owning the tool is of a greater value. This is why I said in my last post, Stanley is at the point of his skills and technique of a legendary proportions. Stanley Clarke is now above all brands, including Alembic. If Stanley only played with his own concoctions of a bass -- guess what? -- He's still Stanley Clarke and sounds good. Many of you guys thought I was crazy, when I said Stanley could smash his Alembic on stage, and get away with it because he's above the tool. Stanley is a Legend of our time (right now), a Bass GURU. Frankly, don't need a brand name regardless of the great electronics. Stanley could go pure acoustics (no electronics at all) and he already proved this... I would love to see Stanley do what Jimi Hendrix, and Jocco did -- Play a ugly stick, and burn it. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 373 Registered: 6-2007 |
I am serious man. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 374 Registered: 6-2007 |
I am serious man. The thesis of this post, is a shame. It's not cool to rag on other guitars man. | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 2085 Registered: 6-2002 |
Hal - please let's not get all fired up again. Pun? Intended! | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 375 Registered: 6-2007 |
Yeah, I know -- people are at different points in their lives, and sometimes -- people are not ready for specific kinds of information. I understand this because it ain't about the fire; the guitar name brand; or the money -- it's about the flickering light in one's heart. If you could look past (or beyond) the things requiring vision, and focus more on the functions ears... and listen to music with "eyes closed", you will get only a mere taste of what: Ray Charles, Roy Kelton Orbison, Stevie Wonderand and José Feliciano understood about sound. I wonder how an Alembic sound on fire? We know what a Fender sounds like, thanks to Jimi | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 1033 Registered: 11-2004 |
We probably don't know the full extent of Stanley's motivation. We just know how we interpret the part of it that we can see. Here is a scenerio to show my point. Let's say you have a friend who is starting a company making something. You are considered an expert in the field and you honestly feel that your friend makes a good product. The product made by the new company competes with a branded product to which you are loyal. You do not have an endorsement contract with any competing companies, so you do your friend a favor by providing input on the design, letting the company use your name in its promotion, and displaying it next to you. It doesn't necessarily mean that you are no longer interested in your old favorite. It doesn't necessarily mean that you are selling out your good name to get some endorsement money. I bet most of us would do something like that to help a friend. I admit that I was a bit surprised to see Stanley endorsing Spellbinder. I didn't immediately think that he was dumping Alembic. I just trust Stanley to do what he feels he needs to do to satisfy his own goals. Rich | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 376 Registered: 6-2007 |
Only a producers of inferior product(s) are fearful. Stanley is an eclectic kind of guy, and he's un-afraid of very difficult music (on paper or improvisational works). Therefore, he would had made it anyway (with or without Alembic). I love Alembic, but I am not blinded to think Alembic is something without a myth. All companies have a mythical slogan and has full of symbolism. Even Stanley, to some degree is sold as something beyond a normal man. It's just for kicks, and it's cool because Stanley is "cool like that... (a hero)" If I seen Stanley with a Kramer, Pevy, or even a Sears catalog bass from the 1960's, it will be cool-as-hell... Better yet, it would be cool-as-hell if he cut an CD with one of those "El-chepo" Sears Basses. I bet he would create a sound, none had heard, and I bet he would make "that sound beautiful too." For those who only see Stanley strapped with and Alembic, try going back in time, and listen to his playing with a Rickenbacker, Fender Jazz, and Kramer... You will not care of the tools, it would be his techniques. Also, when it comes to money, people do some dumb things making it, the quality, eventually comes to light in the end (eventually)... Stay cool! | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 891 Registered: 6-2002 |
I remember Stanley playing mainly Basses by Carl Thompson as well as Alembics. He also played the Gibson EB-3 in his early years. I'd be surprised if Gibson haven't offered him a truckload of money for his endorsement. Perhaps they can make a SC signature EB-3. They can certainly use the legitimacy of his name (as well as that of Jack Bruce) to show their seriousness for making Basses. Rami | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 377 Registered: 6-2007 |
There are people who are great at making tools, and people who are great using them... In my humble opinion, if Stanley was a maker of basses, it would be a sad day... Stanley Clarke as a sole bass maker, reminds me of Michael Jordan on a baseball team, or managing a basketball team. Jordan failed with both projects... I am not trying to be mean-spirited, I am just saying, Stanley should invest on his software (music) and leave the hardware to the great talents therein. I am not saying you can't be a jack-of-all trades, but people spread themselves too thin, and it shows in the product... | ||
| lieber
New Username: lieber Post Number: 3 Registered: 2-2009 |
Let’s answer a few questions here; Spellbinder Corp is Stanley’s company. The Spellbinder II bass was specifically designed as a utility instrument, a long overdue update of the P and J bass. It employs passive electronics, 24 fret /34 inch scale. Sound block design construction. The company’s future plans are to mass produce and have the SB II bass eventually fall into a similar price point as a Fender P or J bass. So primarily it’s positioning in the market place is for Fender lovers. Stanley’s personal Spellbinders are 32 inch scale active electronics, with the original 1980 size Spellbinder body. The purchase price on Stanley’s Black and White Sibling Spellbinders is $14500.00ea Yes Carl Thomson and Stanley originally hashed out the piccolo bass concept together. Our new Mando Piccolo Bass bring classic design ( requested by Stan) to this new sonic adventure for bassist. Truth being told, Stanley’s absolute favorite bass is actually his German flat back upright, no shit! best to you all, Thomas | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 378 Registered: 6-2007 |
Hi Lieber, I wish you and Stanley all the best and all the love for the sake of a better bass. You know -- I would be lying if didn't think Stanley's goals for creating a better bass is completely IRONIC to say the least. To say, the Spellbinder was created as a frontal attack on Fender passive P or J, without a commanding price, and yet you very cleverly mentioned the price of $14,500 for Stanley's active electronic bass. So, in the final analysis, you and Stanley are going after high end basses, if I read you correctly; which means basses with active electronics. You're going up against Alembic? Now this is interesting... (laughable even...) GOOD LUCK, because you are going to need it, especially in this neighborhood. A bold comment, like yours is much appreciated. I wish more people were more open like yourself Lieber. It takes all the guess work out, for you and Stanley want to eventually take Alembic markets. WOW! | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 379 Registered: 6-2007 |
Lieber, why after all these years you choose now to join "The Alembic Club"...? I ask this question because you only have 3 posts and your listed as new. Why now? | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2037 Registered: 2-2006 |
I would like to interject something here. I personaly think the Spellbinder is a pretty cool bass. Unique in appearance and utilizes some very good design and technology. And I disagree with the comparison of Stanley making basses and Michael Jackson managing a baseball team. While I have no idea of Michaels knowledge of baseball I do on the other hand bow to Stanleys knowledge of BASS GUITAR. One doesn't play bass guitar for as many years at the level that Stanley does and not acquire vast knowledge about his trade tool. I wonder how many bassist, including if not especially the ones here, even play Alembic had it not been their (our) respect for Stanleys decision to play Alembic basses. Here is the big question, is one bass right for all? I think not. We all have our opinions and we all have our taste. We should always respect that. And Thomas I can honestly believe that is Stanleys favorite bass to play, I've seen him play it. OO | ||
| oujeebass
Intermediate Member Username: oujeebass Post Number: 141 Registered: 10-2002 |
It could be said that without the Alembic sound Stanley would not be Stanley. That being said I am sure he gets tired of hearing that its due to the Alembic that he sounds like he does. I believe it certainly contributed to his technique and sound. He may be trying to counter those claims with his bass diversions. I sure Hendrix felt that way with Strats. Jimmy Page with Les Pauls. Its one of those things. Artists can be weird. | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2040 Registered: 2-2006 |
Didn't Page play an SG too? Hmm maybe not, I may just be seeing double. OO | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 380 Registered: 6-2007 |
Olieoliver, I first recommend you read my words before interjecting... First let me just say: "Lovely bass man" Ok, I never used the analogy of Michael Jackson sir. I used Michael Jordan as my example. Just in case you never heard, he's the greatest basketball player whoever played the game. Stanley Clarke is the also, the greatest bass player (no arguments). He's won 1# awards across the board -- Downbeat, Playboy, Bassplayer, Musician, Guitar, "name-the-magazine" -- Stanley claims it. Michael Jordan parallels this same greatness but in a different profession. However, for Michael Jordan, to perfect a better (a more perfect) basketball for the marketplace, probably fits the analogy even better. Just because Jordan can play the game, doesn't mean he could make (manufacture) a better basketball. Same with Stanley -- Stanley's attribute as a great musician, is not even on the table... competing for future dollars as a bass developer/inventor/designer is another game altogether. I already commend him, and wish him luck, but it is still IRONIC... | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 381 Registered: 6-2007 |
Lieber, please answer my question when you have some time... Thank you. | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 2041 Registered: 2-2006 |
My apologies Hal, you did write say Jordan and I meant to type Jordan, I just got distracted. And while I see you're point about "to perfect a better basketball", I also see other side of the coin. He knows what feels good in his hands. I am not trying to argue, I just see both sides to this discussion. I'm not sure I would want Stanley to actually build my guitar I would certainly respect his input on what HIS ideal axe is. And again I apologize for mistating what you posted and I meant my post in the utmost respect to all. OO And thanks Hal, I Love the bass! It may be my smallest but it has the largest sound. | ||
| ajdover
Senior Member Username: ajdover Post Number: 690 Registered: 11-2003 |
This whole thread makes me think of one thing - if you could only have one bass, what would it be? I'm torn between my '73 Fender Jazz and my '06 Stanley Clarke Signature Standard. I'd have to have them both. Why? First, I grew up playing Jazz Basses. Second, the Jazz is the most comfortable bass I've ever owned. Third, the Jazz is infinitely customizable (I have Seymour Duncan pickups, a Badass II Bridge, and Schaller tuners on it, as well as a J-Retro preamp in it). On the other hand, my SC is also comfortable, has tone for days, and plays like a dream. Without mods, I might add. It just ... it fits. An Alembic moves me like no other bass I've ever owned - tone, playability, sound, build quality, you name it. It remains the finest bass I've ever owned or played, hands down. The fact that I know how it was produced and where it came from only makes an Alembic that much more special to me. If Stanley wants to play something else, hey, more power to him. He's certainly earned the right. For me, Alembic will remain my marque of choice. Unless, of course, someone sends me to an island ... Alan | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 382 Registered: 6-2007 |
I am not a "Player Hater". I love Stanley's music and believe me, Stanley is my hero [always!] For as long as Spellbinder basses had been around, I would had expected more analysis from this distinguished body. I would appreciate more experience and opportunity to test with comments. I had never heard anyone on this board endorsing them... Alembicans here; had listed their varieties of basses and guitars, and I had yet read anything about Spellbinder's greatness. WHAT MAKES THE GREAT, COMPARED TO WHAT? How do they measure up to Alembic? I heard members here mentioned their Musicman's, Rickenbacker's, Fender Jazz's, Gibson's, Ibanez's, Kramer's and what-not. On the otherhand, when someone mentions Spellbinder basses --- I hear nothing but cricket chirps... It's IRONIC. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 383 Registered: 6-2007 |
Stanley clearly don't seem to be as aggressively selling the bass (as so much as touring with them or using them as a backup or rehearsal instrument (if anything else...). It's laughable because, Stanley knows his Alembics is his sound, and ain't nothing coming close. Stanley Clarke and Alembic basses is like Evil Knievel with Harley Davidson. They are one in the same. To many years gone by, it just don't look sincere anyway's else. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 384 Registered: 6-2007 |
From the video, it looks like Stanley's Spellbinder borrows Alembic's a DS-5 (Swichcraft and Nurtrik) 5 pin cables systems. Again I say it's laughable... | ||
| oujeebass
Intermediate Member Username: oujeebass Post Number: 142 Registered: 10-2002 |
I, being a huge Jimmy Page fan, was miffed when I saw him playing a Gibson RD on a Knebworth 79 video I have. It was a bit thin sounding, but he was suffering a bit at that time. I am sure it was given to him. He only used it on one song. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 385 Registered: 6-2007 |
Lieber - "Stanley had a hand in designing the Spellbinder, aspects of the body design and electronics. So when you all dis as ugly , sounds like crap etc…. you insult Stanley, myself..." You know what I say: "So What!" Nobody is above criticism. Besides, it's silly to try to sell a "Yugo" to drivers of Formula 1's, Lamborghini's, and Ferrari's. Yugo's SUCK! (In other words if the shoe fits...) | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 7530 Registered: 5-2002 |
I would like to remind our members here that, from what I have gathered in my time here, the club has as a whole adopted a level of expected decorum and civil discourse. It has also been my observation that when new members join our community, they are generally welcomed and treated respectfully. Members who have been here for a while and have made numerous posts over the years, tend to "know" each other to some limited degree based on the threads within which they have corresponded with each other. A new member, however, has no such reference point; and as a result, there can be a higher probability of miscommunication. Thus, the need for treating new members with respect and tolerance is even greater than the need to treat our fellow members in general with respect and tolerance. While there have been a number of interesting comments and observations in this thread, I am concerned that perhaps from the viewpoint of a new member, who essentially doesn't "know" any of the members here, who has no familiarity with the personalities posting to this particular thread (and we do have a wide variety of personalities in our community!), that the tenor of this thread might appear to be a bit negative, a bit less than welcoming. Thus it would be my recommendation that perhaps before hitting the "post" button, we each give a little consideration to how our words might be interpreted by a new member of our community who might not be used to one's particular peculiarities with language. Each of us here has a unique view that we can offer; and we can share our views with our friends here, and we can in turn learn from the views of these friends. And while it is certainly understandable that we may become passionate in expounding our positions, we can share our views with each other without disparaging each other. Sometimes in the heat of discourse we tend to forget that in a medium such as an internet discussion board, our words can be misinterpreted easily. It's understandable; it happens all the time. Communication can be difficult in the best of circumstances, among individuals who have known each other for years and are sitting face to face at the kitchen table. And internet communication is not the best of circumstances. Again, my concern here is that from the view of a new member, the tenor of this thread may have come to appear less than welcoming; which I'm guessing is not anyone's intention. I hope this post makes some kind of sense. This communication thing is kind of tough. Thanks, David | ||
| lieber
New Username: lieber Post Number: 4 Registered: 2-2009 |
I am amazed at the conviction and unconditional passion displayed over inanimate objects. Such energy should be redirected to the loving and saving of the innumerable misfortunate abandoned children upon our planet. Everyday, every moment is another unbearable one for them. So lets all focus and prioritize our battles and count our families and our own blessings, please. My intent in joining this discussion was merely to shed some light on a lot of misinformation. Kind regards, Thomas | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 386 Registered: 6-2007 |
Dave, I would had love the same royal treatment when I said something controversial in my first few threads, as a new member... and I was not even selling a competing product." Anyway after all this Dave,... does this means, Lieber gets a hall-pass from answering my questions? | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 387 Registered: 6-2007 |
Lieber - WELCOME TO ALEMBIC! Peace be on to you, my brother. We are one. | ||
| artswork99
Senior Member Username: artswork99 Post Number: 559 Registered: 7-2007 |
Thanks for your input and insight here. I concur that we should all count our own blessings... daily! Best, Art | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 7531 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hence the maxim, "do unto new members as you would have others do unto you when you were a new member". In other words, if you would have liked the "royal treatment", then give freely of the "royal treatment" to others. How we were treated at some point in the past isn't necessarily how we should treat others in the present. In my view, our world seems to work better when we treat each other with respect and compassion, no matter what suffering we may have experienced in our own lives. And on answering questions, there is no requirement that members answer the demands of other members, with the possible exception of pictures of Alembic instruments, which are highly encouraged! Enjoy your day! David | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 2089 Registered: 6-2002 |
Hal, sorry to interrupt, but your enthousiasm runneth over sometimes. Take a deep breath before posting, think about what you want to say, and after you finish writing read it again before submitting. If you want to ask a question, perhaps it is wise not to second-guess people in the very question you're asking them. | ||
| jorge_s
Intermediate Member Username: jorge_s Post Number: 175 Registered: 8-2002 |
I for one want to thank Mr. Lieber for joining our group. I very much admire your designs and the link above where you share your association with Doug Irwin as well as the photographs is very fascinating. Thank you. -Jorge | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 1035 Registered: 11-2004 |
Thomas, ditto what Jorge said. I'm happy to hear an "inside story" from someone who is actually involved with developing a product. Welcome to the club and I hope you will check in regularly. If you get a chance to correspond with Stanley, please tell him how much respect we have for him here on the club. A lot of us came to hear about and love Alembic instruments after hearing him play. Rich | ||
| dannobasso
Senior Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 950 Registered: 3-2004 |
A wonderful and therapeutic practice is to type your post, read it in preview and here's the interesting bit........ don't post it. That way you get out your opinion and don't cause any undo or unintended stress to others. If you want a Spellbinder The Low End has some and is accepting bids. http://www.thelowend.net/thelowend/used-basses.html | ||
| funkyjazzjunky
Advanced Member Username: funkyjazzjunky Post Number: 336 Registered: 5-2007 |
Thomas Lieber I owe you an apology. I should have said nothing instead chiming in about the Spellbinder being an ugly bass. Welcome to the forum. Thank you for sharing the inside story. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 388 Registered: 6-2007 |
Some children believe in Santa Claus, and some children ask questions... I was the latter child, and eventually grew-up and bought an Alembic for miracles to happen... and it did. | ||
| white_cloud
Senior Member Username: white_cloud Post Number: 610 Registered: 11-2007 |
I really dont think it matters what Stanley plays - the music is in the fingers after all! Even when Stan was playing a Gibson and a Ricky back in the day he sounded like Stan. When he plays his Carl Thompson and his double bass he sounds like Stan!!! It is understandable that many members here connect with Stan mainly through his use of Alembic basses - therefore it is a human reaction to react in a negative way when he uses something else ( for example I despaired when John Entwhistle switched from Alembic to Warwick/Status etc) ....but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Spellbinders are not at all to my taste but good luck to them for getting exposure through Stan. John. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 389 Registered: 6-2007 |
A great weakness of humans are: fear and doubt. The greatest weakness is: intolerance to others. If this site can't rise above the above perils, it will eventually parish upon it's self. I never heard of a bad question, just bad decisions. Hal- | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 390 Registered: 6-2007 |
In otherwords...bad decisions are made, because "questions" had been ignored, blocked, or mis-understood. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 391 Registered: 6-2007 |
Bootsy has basses for sale, for those who love bling-bling and rhinestones! His tarket market for his basses are profoundly clear. | ||
| fc_spoiler
Senior Member Username: fc_spoiler Post Number: 797 Registered: 5-2006 |
You're spamming Hal... (or maybe even trolling, or is that the same?) Plz read above advise ;-) | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 392 Registered: 6-2007 |
However, the differences -- Bootsy started his career with his own special made bass called: "The Space Bass". There had been newer renditions, and designs of his "Space-bass" but it still, was design and personally fit his stage persona and attire(s). Perhaps if Stanley created his own bass, 30 years ago, this issue would be moot. Lewis Johnson worked with Leo Fender to design his custom bass...: The Musicman Stingray! That's a bad-ass bass. Alembicans here, warmly accepts Stingrays. It a fun thought. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 393 Registered: 6-2007 |
Not at all Flip. I am neither. According to your own words, you are not even sure yourself. What make you think of me in this way? That's my question to you... Let's gain understanding bro. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 394 Registered: 6-2007 |
If anybody has a 1970's Stingray for sale, please, allow me to make an offer... | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 395 Registered: 6-2007 |
Application of the term troll is highly subjective. Some readers may characterize a post as trolling, while others may regard the same post as a legitimate contribution to the discussion, even if controversial. The term is often used to discredit an opposing position, or its proponent, by argument fallacy ad hominem. Often, calling someone a troll makes assumptions about a writer's motives. Regardless of the circumstances, controversial posts may attract a particularly strong response from those unfamiliar with the robust dialogue found in some online, rather than physical, communities. Experienced participants in online forums know that the most effective way to discourage a troll is usually to ignore him or her, because responding tends to encourage trolls to continue disruptive posts — hence the often-seen warning: "Please do not feed the trolls".[11] Frequently, someone who has been labelled a troll by a group may seek to redeem their reputation by discrediting their opponents, for example by claiming that other members of the group are closed-minded, conspirators, or trolls themselves. | ||
| fc_spoiler
Senior Member Username: fc_spoiler Post Number: 798 Registered: 5-2006 |
Sorry, maybe I shouldn't have mentioned it... As Adriaan said: "your enthousiasm runneth over sometimes" I think on most topics I agree with you.... Think, because I'm not sure. I'm not sure because I rarely ever read one of your posts... :-( If you just make your firm statement and wait for somebody to reply, it will be much easier to read for us and we might even get to know the nice guy (which I think you are) behind hendixclarke ;-) | ||
| fc_spoiler
Senior Member Username: fc_spoiler Post Number: 799 Registered: 5-2006 |
and now I'm doing it myself :-) Sorry double post... (Message edited by fc_spoiler on February 10, 2009) | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 396 Registered: 6-2007 |
I am a member of this Club - A long time member. I show respect, even when none is provided. I don't have any motives for trolling. We had seen man people ruined because lack of understanding. Again, questions are never bad, just decisions we make are. Ok, I am back aboard my space ship... see ya. | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 397 Registered: 6-2007 |
Bootsy loves Alembics! Bootsy's gear Space Bass, custom F Bass, Alembic F2-B preamp, Alembic Super Filter, Roland Space Echo, MXR Digital Delay, Pro Co Rat II, Electro-Harmonix Big Muff distortion, DOD Thrash, DigiTech Grunge, DigiTech Whammy Pedal, Boss BF-3 Flanger, DOD Envelope, two Mu-Tron IIIs, Electro-Harmonix Bass Micro | ||
| byoung
Senior Member Username: byoung Post Number: 1165 Registered: 12-2004 |
Hal has been trolling here for a long time; I put him in my blocker a long time ago. Mr. Lieber, thanks for contributing, and thanks for having something interesting to say. Bradley | ||
| slawie
Member Username: slawie Post Number: 55 Registered: 8-2002 |
Bradley, I like your personal quote and only hope that you are talking about your intruments and not yourself. slawie | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 398 Registered: 6-2007 |
Oh, Bradley why would you say that? What did I ever say or do, to you to make you feel this way? It's obvious you want to call me out in front of all these great Alembican's and our new Spellbinders club member. If you remember, I got off this subject, so why are you in this mood? Now, you're looking pretty much like the person you say, I am. Also... It's not necessary to show fellowship with a new person, by putting down someone else in attempt develop a bond or show allegiance. It make your bond questionable. For, the probability of repeating your error, is likely with each new member, who you attest, or disagree. Therefore it's not necessary. Think on this... Peace- | ||
| hendixclarke
Advanced Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 399 Registered: 6-2007 |
The Creation of the Space Bass by Larry Pless "In 1974 I went with a friend of mine and drove down to Warren, Michigan to a music store called Gus Zoppies (Editor's note: Store is referred to as Guz Zuppi Music on the cover of Bootsy's Stretchin' Out... album.). It was a family run music store whose owner was a little Italian man who was known around Detroit for his accordions. His name was Gus Zoppie, Sr. His wife and son, Gus jr., also worked there. I took a guitar I had made with me to see if they would sell it on consignment ... " [moderator's note: the original text of this post was an entire copy and paste from another website. At the bottom of the original page, the site owner states that the page is copyrighted. I have replaced all but the first few lines of the text with a link to the original page. I am not an attorney, but it seems prudent to avoid putting our hosts here on Alembic.com in any kind of potential legal liability. Common internet conventions suggest that it is generally acceptable, but not always so, to quote a few lines from an article and then link back to the source. While being mindful of copyright is mentioned in the posting guidelines, this is not the first time that I have found an entire copyrighted article copied and pasted here. It's an easy thing to overlook in our desire to spread information and share knowledge.] (Message edited by davehouck on February 10, 2009) | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 2110 Registered: 10-2002 |
Hal. You said " Bootsy started his career with his own special made bass called: "The Space Bass". " The space bass didn't appear until the mid seventies by which time Bootsy already had over half a decade playing professionally with james Brown, his own band - the houseguests and then funkadelic. I'm pretty certain that he would have been using a fender in those days so It seems a bit inacurate to say he started his career with his spacebass. Back on topic, I don't think the spellbinder is an ugly instrument, especially when compared to the lowenhertz that Stanley also endorses. graeme. | ||
| georgie_boy
Senior Member Username: georgie_boy Post Number: 649 Registered: 8-2005 |
What's "Trolling" ?? | ||
| georgie_boy
Senior Member Username: georgie_boy Post Number: 650 Registered: 8-2005 |
Guess what!! I just looked out the window, towards the West. The Moon seemed to be really far away....as if over the far West coast of America. It seems as if it had wires leading from it, down to what looked like California! Anyone able to explain this?? G | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 2111 Registered: 10-2002 |
Deliberately posting a potentially inflammatory or misleading comment in the hope of 'catching' the forum out. Comes from the fishing term where a deep lure is 'trolled' or 'trawled' in the hope of getting a bite. From this we also get the expression 'hook,line and sinker'. For a troll to be a success, the original poster should not revisit the thread but should instead sit back and watch the fireworks. Graeme | ||
| georgie_boy
Senior Member Username: georgie_boy Post Number: 651 Registered: 8-2005 |
Thanks Graeme! knew I could rely on you for a quick answer. Just a question........why would anyone want to do such a thing?? in this forum | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 2112 Registered: 10-2002 |
Some people have too much time on their hands. For what it's worth, I don't belive Hal is a troll. As FC and Adriaan have said, sometimes his enthusiasm for typing gets the upper hand. Graeme | ||
| georgie_boy
Senior Member Username: georgie_boy Post Number: 653 Registered: 8-2005 |
I can understand that. We can all be a bit too enthusiastic at times when something means a lot to us. | ||
| altgrendel
Junior Username: altgrendel Post Number: 32 Registered: 5-2008 |
Anyone that thinks that bass is "ugly" hasn't really seen much of the old (pre-Fender) Guild solidbody line. Some, like the Ashbory, are really out there. For the record, I own a mid '70s fretless Guild B-301 and wouldn't trade/sell it for anything. And as has been said earlier in this thread, it ain't what 'cha got, it's how you use it. (Message edited by AltGrendel on February 11, 2009) | ||
| hendixclarke
Senior Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 402 Registered: 6-2007 |
Hi graeme, You are right man... The Space Bass came after he created his own band. I was not aware of Bootsy during the era of James Brown. In those day's, I was checking Jimi Hendrix. It was not until I started listening to the Funkadelics and their "Rock-forms" of soul when I understood Bootsy as a serious "on-time" James Brown bassman. However, as the story goes, on his first solo album, Bootsy surprised me with his brand new bass, and he stuck with me. In those "funk-years" Bootsy's took the bass: "front and center" like no other performer I'd ever seen, and it was good. I love Bootsy for it, because the bass is so much more than what most people understanding were (myself included)... Then when I was aware of Stanley Clarke, I had already accepted a lead bass bass man. So, when I heard Bootsy play and seen him live at the Oakland Colosseum, I was blown away because of the look, and sounds of his bass effects. It was hard thunder and smooth like rain... But for me to go out and buy a space bass, it would be a collection and a conversation piece; but as far as playing them, only Bootsy looks great with them. I love a plain wood and metal...bass You heard of a company called: Alembic? | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 2113 Registered: 10-2002 |
"I love a plain wood and metal bass" There's nothing plain about the wood Alembic uses ;-) I'd rather have mine than any other make. graeme | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 2114 Registered: 10-2002 |
a coouple of pics of that 'plain' coco bolo Alembic used on my rogue ;-)   Graeme | ||
| hendixclarke
Senior Member Username: hendixclarke Post Number: 403 Registered: 6-2007 |
graeme, If Bootsy had made his debut with an Alembic bass before his spacebass, Alembic basses would had been in my hands much faster! Awe man, your bass is (what Bootsy would say...) it's SLAMMIN! | ||
| eligilam
Intermediate Member Username: eligilam Post Number: 150 Registered: 2-2006 |
I love hendrixclarke. The threads on which he has prominent input are usually the most entertaining on the board... | ||
| rami
Senior Member Username: rami Post Number: 892 Registered: 6-2002 |
I regret my use of the term "Ugly". I should have just said that the Spellbinder's styling is not to my taste. No offense intended Thomas. Best wishes and welcome to the club. (Message edited by rami on February 11, 2009) |
