| Author | Message | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 244 Registered: 10-2003 |
Ok, this isn't so much a "fun story". (in fact maybe should be in troubleshooting...). I have for some years now (since '96 to be precise) suffered from back and neck problems; a bad disc in my lumbar spine and one in my cervical spine. Both cause me no end of grief when it comes to playing bass, but I seem to be able to manage ok with my Rickenbackers; reasonable weight, and I've been playing Rics for 20-odd years now so I guess my body is used to them. The bad news is that it isn't coping at all well with my Alembic Triple O. This, as some of you will know, was my dream guitar, and when I finally got it in 2004 (?) I was over the moon. Knowing it was big-bodied, I had mine built hollow to lessen the stress. Even so, it weighs in at over ten pounds, and maybe it's that, or the centre of gravity, but it's giving me bad back problems nowadays. Yesterday I played it for around an hour and today I felt like I'd taken part in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. It exacerbates my back pain and causes tingling/numbness in my legs. Unfortunately it's not very comfortable to play sitting down (I knew this when I ordered it but desperately wanted the Triple O shape). So, I have a dilemma. I love it to bits, but it's becoming increasingly difficult to play standing, and it's not very comfortable sitting. I don't really want to sell it either, but am starting to wonder if it's the only option left. What do you do when your dream turns out to be heavier than you can handle? Any suggestions would be appreciated. BTW, I've used all the "sprung" straps (Comfort, Overwater etc). | ||
| 57basstra
Senior Member Username: 57basstra Post Number: 489 Registered: 4-2005 |
Why not put in an end pin and play it like an upright. I've experimented with just that thing on a coupla other basses (Not Alembics). You could mount it on something like a cymbal stand. I have a Dean Pace electric upright that has a stand with a ball joint where the bass connects. Sorry for your back problems, Shaun. When your back hurts, everything hurts. Good Luck! David | ||
| southpaw
Member Username: southpaw Post Number: 89 Registered: 12-2004 |
Shaun, does your back give you trouble with any other daily activities? The reason I ask, it may be time to address the back and not the bass. I am about your age and over the years I have had my lumbar and cervical areas rebuilt by top notch sugeons and I feel great! These days I run, stretch, weightlift better than in my 20's. I have a heavy Distillate and an old 11lbs. G&L bass, no problems. I assume you have done the pyhysical therapy route? Hang in there. Southpaw | ||
| keurosix
Intermediate Member Username: keurosix Post Number: 122 Registered: 10-2005 |
Shaun, I gave up my Series 1 - 4 string and the John Judge doubleneck special when my back gave me grief. I got a Modulus Quantum 5 TBX neck thru and Activated it. It helped for years until I longed for the true Alembic sound again. I now have an Europa 6 and an Epic 5 fretless. When I had the heavyweights, I opted for the widest strap I could find to distribute the weight out across my shoulder. For the doubleneck, I made a custom 5" wide leather strap. Now, I use the 4" wide Moody Alembic straps, and have had sucess. I suggest specific back exercises to strengthen your abs and legs to help the back out. The kind you learned in physical therapy? Check with your doctor. I always feel better playing bass when I work out first. You can try an abdominal belt for additional support - The kind used by weight lifters, or UPS stock clerks. Here's to your good health! Kris | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 754 Registered: 11-2004 |
Shaun, One thing you may try is redistributing the bass's weight. Try making a harness that attaches the bass to your body so that the weight is supported by a strap/belt around your waist. That way it puts the weight on your hips not your back. You could have a strap over your shoulder that just keeps the body upright rather than supporting all the weight. Most people seem to assume that there is only one way to wear a guitar. I had an injury 30+ years ago that forced me to create a new way to strap on a bass (righty player with the strap over my right shoulder). You could buy about ten feet of cheap strap material, pin it together with safety pins, cut it if necessary, and experiment with it until it feels right. Once you get the dimensions right you could have someone sew one like you want it. Good luck to you. Rich | ||
| smokin_dave
Advanced Member Username: smokin_dave Post Number: 292 Registered: 10-2002 |
There is a strap out there that your instrument hooks up to sort of a utility back brace that workers in warehouses and shipping companies use everyday. I'll see if I can find it and post a link. | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 636 Registered: 6-2002 |
Hi Smokin, I had one of those straps you are talking about years ago. However you had to actually fit a mounting plate onto the back of your guitar and the strap fitted to the back of that. The jack output was also on the strap so you had to re-wire the output through a hole in the back into the strap mounting plate. You then balanced the guitar fairly body central and you could spin the guitar round like a propellar with it on if you so wished. I only used it on a guitar I made myself. I found it fairly comfortable but didn't like it really. Apparently ZZ top used them on their guitars at the time they used to spin their guitars round like propellers on stage. Here is something similar. http://www.wittman-spins.com/spinstraps.html Jazzyvee | ||
| 0vid
Junior Username: 0vid Post Number: 45 Registered: 4-2003 |
There was something that was made for a while called the bass brace. The website www.bassbrace.com seems to have gone. But a google search may bring up some old info. | ||
| cozmik_cowboy
Junior Username: cozmik_cowboy Post Number: 15 Registered: 10-2006 |
Slider Straps makes 3 models of 2-shoulder harness straps, without a spinner plate or rewiring - they hook to your strap buttons in the normal fashion. You can find them at Musician's Friend. http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Slider-Straps-Dual-Shoulder-Strap?sku=365260 (Sorry, I haven't got the hang of the shortened link - I'm a Bad Person) Peter (Message edited by Cozmik_Cowboy on November 14, 2006) (Message edited by Cozmik_Cowboy on November 14, 2006) | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 245 Registered: 10-2003 |
Many thanks for all the comments, suggestions and support I've received, it really is much appreciated. With regards to physio/exercise, I've undergone numerous bouts of physio over the past several years, none of them successful. In fact my last physio admitted she was "baffled" by some of the symptoms I was showing; this was before my MRI scan. I'm currently awaiting a further course in January. In terms of surgery, following my MRI, the surgeon I was under, who initially seemed pretty convinced I was some sort of moaner, declared that I did have problems but he couldn't help me; I'd previously had the same from another orthopaedic surgeon. No luck there then. I've undergone various bouts of acupuncture, sometimes with slight results, sometimes with none. I've been having chiropractic for years now, but it aggravates my condition nearly as often as it helps. I used to weight train regularly, but after my problems started found that pretty much everything I did aggravated something; I get muscle spasms through both arms, legs, pelvis (including locking of pelvis and associated - and rather unpleasant - problems). I get really bad neck and back pain & spasms, tingling in my face, arms & legs, problems with my hands & feet....you get the picture. Anyway, going private would be the only option for me in the UK and to do that I'd have to sell the Alembic anyway! Also, I used to do a job where I was involved in assessing people who had all sorts of physical disabilites, and in every single instance where someone had had a back op (I'm talking hundreds), even where it had initially caused an improvement, it had eventually deteriorated way past the original point, so I'm rather antsy about back surgery. I'm glad to hear it worked out for you though Southpaw, and more power to you; hopefully with the work you're doing it'll keep improving. It may be that "top notch" surgeons have something to do with this, as the ones I've met have showed no interest given that I'm still able to walk. Still, hopefully they are helping those who are worse than me, so I mustn't grumble. Of the other remedies suggested, I will try and get hold of a slider strap. If that doesn't work, then I may just have to sell her; as much as I love the bass it's not worth the pain! Almost, but not quite...it will be a sad, sad day if it comes to that however. Fingers crossed. Once again, thanks to all for your comments, they're really much appreciated. | ||
| groovelines
Senior Member Username: groovelines Post Number: 408 Registered: 4-2003 |
In post #2 David mentioned the use of a stand. That was my initial thought - elinimate any need to bodily support the bass. Steve Howe uses one to this day to facilitate use of multiple guitars without needing to "switch". I would imagine that something like that could be found/modified for bass. something like this:   | ||
| southpaw
Member Username: southpaw Post Number: 90 Registered: 12-2004 |
Hang in there Shaun! It sounds like some serious disk shifting and nerve pressure causing the pain, tingling, etc... I know the feeling. I am fortunate to have good insurance that allows me to pick my own doctors, so I found the best I could. It took a long time and many doctor visits to find the right people, but it was worth it. These days, I kind of like sitting down when I play, so maybe try a nice chair or stool, it works for some of the old blues/jazz players in my area. All the best to you. | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 246 Registered: 10-2003 |
Thanks guys, I'll hang on in there. The situation in the UK isn't that great really. Fantastic having the NHS providing you're a priority, but when you're not, no interest. I wish I'd taken out private insurance before my back went, but now it's in every clause, so I'd be paying full whack for anything done; it's taken me 3 years to pay for my Alembic so financially it's not good, although if needs must...we'll see. Anyway thanks again guys and all the best to you too. | ||
| bracheen
Senior Member Username: bracheen Post Number: 1093 Registered: 11-2003 |
Shaun, I can't give any advice that hasn't already been given but my best to you. Here's hoping everything works out. I remember how excited you were about the Triple O. It would be a shame to give her up. Besides you're the only one who can pronounce Sorne-Raama. Sam | ||
| smokin_dave
Advanced Member Username: smokin_dave Post Number: 293 Registered: 10-2002 |
I knew somebody here could find what I was talking about. I sure couldn't......DOH. | ||
| petehnek
New Username: petehnek Post Number: 5 Registered: 8-2006 |
That stinks about the back. Aside from the Alembic issue, bad disks can totally dominate your life. I had a herniated disk between L5-S1 and couldn't even sleep without taking a couple percocet. I ran through the litany of treatments (PT, TENS unit, ultra sound, acupuncture, various pills, injections etc) and finally saw a neurosurgeon and got a microdiscectomy. It was like magic. In pre-op, I was in pain, and in post op I wasn't. I spent 1 night in the hospital and was not allowed to pick up anything over 15 pounds for 6 weeks. Immediately after that I got into a massive head on car crash (no injuries outside of bruising, always wear your seatbelt kids) and shortly after THAT I crashed on my bicycle and broke my elbow. Happily I am past those injuries and my surgery was unaffected. I am now in the best condition of my life, taking boxing classes and stuff, and over 2 years later I couldn't be happier with the surgery. Now every case is different and maybe it wouldn't be right for you, but I'd look into it. Microdiscectomy is like arthroscopic surgery in that they go in with a laser and remove the bit of disk matter that is compressing the nerve and causing you pain. If that is why you're having problems, the surgey is a good solution. I stayed away from anything that involved fusing or removing disks, cause that just leads to more problems 10 years down the road. My insurance fully covered it, but I'm in the US. Hope it all works out for you. Believe me, I feel your pain. cheers Pete | ||
| tbrannon
Advanced Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 229 Registered: 11-2004 |
Shaun, My story is exactly like the one that Pete detailed above- except my discectomy wasn't micro- I've got a 3 inch scar around L5-S1 to prove it. I had my surgery 1 year ago today, and I'm back to running, biking, swimming and lifting weights daily- there is hope. Additionally, my healthcare situation might be somewhat more similar to what you're facing. I am in NZ and had to battle the socialized medicine thing- it was ugly for about a year, but the disc eventually quit on me and I was rushed to the hospital (I won't mention the lying on the floor of the garage and the crying like a baby part). As a result of the "Emergency" admittance, I was seen on an emergency basis and had my surgery 4 days after taking a ride with sirens and flashing lights. Hang in there and know that things can get better- don't sell that Alembic. Someday (hopefully soon) your back will be better and you'll be glad you kept that Triple-O. Toby | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 247 Registered: 10-2003 |
Once again, thanks guys; these posts are great. Sam, I think Ken can do it too  (and better than I can!) but I must admit my naming my bass hasn't helped thoughts of getting rid! A word of advice...don't do it! Now it's a PERSON! Pete and Toby, thanks for your very informative posts. Pete, your experience sounds amazing, and it's certainly something I may look into (you're right about it dominating your life though - I'd actually give up playing altogether if I could go back to how I used to be, and that is saying a heck of a lot). A friend's wife had something similar I believe; I haven't seen them in a long while (they live in a different part of the country) but I may drop a line to discuss, and take the opportunity to catch up anyway. I know she has had a few problems but she may not have taken exactly the same route. The guys I've seen were both orthopaedic surgeons; I believe she was also eventually treated by a neurosurgeon. The last consultant I saw said it wasn't worth me seeing a neurosurgeon as they wouldn't consider it worth their while (or words to that effect). I was like, thanks! As I say, I've got some more physio due in January (this time with scans to work with) and I'll see what's said then and take it from there. Glad to hear you're fit and well now, and best of luck for the future. As for your story Toby, that's frightening! Glad it eventually worked out ok. As I said previously, the problem I also seem to have encountered is that if you're still walking, you're not serious enough to bother with (at least to the NHS). I understand to some degree because they have higher priorities and their resources are stretched so thin, but it doesn't help me a great deal. What really does annoy me is when I first started getting trouble the doctor I was referred to just kept saying, "we'll see how it is in a couple of months". After the third time I blew up, which is really not like me at all. And then when I first went to the chiropracter he said, "if only you'd got here sooner". Grrrr. Anyway, I'll plod on and see how it works out. If the bass does eventually have to go, I'm trying to think in terms of it being like climbing Everest; at least I've achieved it - it doesn't mean I have to live there, if you get my drift. But I'd much sooner keep it..... Thanks once again to one and all, and to those of you with back problems, you have my utmost sympathies. To those now recovered, best of luck and may the Force (or insert your own equivalent) be with you! P.S. I don't often get chance to post these days, but I really love this forum. I really don't think there is another like it. Everyone should be proud of themselves! | ||
| haddimudd
Intermediate Member Username: haddimudd Post Number: 162 Registered: 6-2002 |
Shaun, I have been thinking for years (although not on a very regular basis) about a way to get my instrument's weight off the shoulders and more towards the hips. I once had the opportunity to wear a SteadyCam harness for professional film cameras and it does exactly that: It puts all the weight of the harness and all the counter-balance weights towards your hips. Although in this particular case the harness still covers the back and shoulders too, but both are more involved in "steering" the camera than actually in carrying it. I always wanted to adapt that concept to my heavy doubleneck bass. The major issue here would be that you wouldn't want a full and complicated-to-put-on harness. As a musician you should be able to quickly strap and unstrap your instrument. But then again it wouldn't have to be able to do all the complicated stuff a SteadyCam is built for, so maybe there is a chance to use the basic concept of the hip belt and get it adapted to a more user friendly strap-like fixture. I haven't figured out the right concept on how to combine those different needs in one simple product, but it surely is on my to do list. Of course until then I always can (and love) to play my bass seated, especially since I don't do stage performances at the moment. I understand how a triple cutout causes problems there, it is the reason why I never can own a triple omega bass - I really am much of a seated player, probably 90% of my entire playing. But maybe you too may want to brainstorm in that direction and invent a hip belt solution for your bass. If ever I will find a good way that works for me I will share it with the forum. Until then, all the best for your back! Hartmut | ||
| haddimudd
Intermediate Member Username: haddimudd Post Number: 163 Registered: 6-2002 |
Oh, sorry folks, I just realized too late that Rich in post #5 has already made the same suggestions that I just redundantly did. So much for long threads and not reading through all of it before posting, sorry! Still, all the best wishes with your back! Hartmut (Message edited by haddimudd on November 19, 2006) | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 759 Registered: 11-2004 |
Hartmut, I would rather see potentially helpful advise mentioned twice than not at all. Anything that keep us playing into our middle or later years is worth its weight in gold. I faced my broken left collarbone at age 19!! I had been playing bass for less than a year, loved it and wasn't about to give it up. However, I couldn't stand a strap over the left shoulder. Shaun, how high or low do you wear your bass? Could you post a picture of yourself playing standing up? Rich | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 250 Registered: 10-2003 |
Hartmut, many thanks for your thoughts and as Rich says, there's no problem at all giving good advice twice. It's funny, because I used to do most of my home playing seated, and gradually weaned myself off it so I could practice "in gig conditions" as it were. I'm kind of regretting that now, because I feel so wrong playing whilst seated. Rich, I wear my bass kind of over my stomach, neither very high nor very low. Wearing it high just cripples me. Playing lower helps a little, but there's a point at which the bass just ends up flapping around (plus I can't play it at Jimmy Page height!). I haven't got any pictures of me playing the Alembic that I can post, and given that I was at the chiropracter Friday I'm keeping well away from actually wearing it for the time being, but I'll see if I can post something or other (it'll probably be wearing a Rickenbacker I'm afraid, my other love).  This is me doing the "power-pop" thing with my 4001CS at a recent charity gig (hence the wristband).....I've actually raised my bass ever so slightly since the gig, probably one hole on the strap. BTW, I use an Overwater strap for the Alembic which is similar to a Comfort one. | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4548 Registered: 5-2002 |
I may be way out of line here but .. And one picture isn't much evidence to be forming conclusions with but .. In the picture, it does not look like you have your back straight. It appears to me that your back is curved forward and that you are compressing the lower vertebrae. If it were me and I had my back curved like that while playing bass, it would take me a lot of work on the yoga mat to get things right again. It seems to me to be the case that the higher you have your bass, the less pressure on your lower back. It just seems that when the bass is low on the body, the player tends to lean forward more, rolling the back in the process, and putting the spine in an uncomfortable position. I didn't want to mention this before because it seems from the earlier posts in this thread that you've probably already tried everything, and I didn't want to post my experience because it's similar to some posted by others, but .. I had back surgery, laminectomy of L5, for a severly ruptured disk in 1988. I subsequently did two years of physical therapy, weight machines, walking, swimming, before the pain finally subsided. Until a few years ago, I continued using the weight machine and walking to keep the muscles strong enough to do the work that the L5 used to do. Then .. A few years ago I discontinued the weight machine and switched to yoga. Huge difference. Again, I may be totally off base and one picture isn't enough to know anything, but I did think I should mention that it seems to me helpful to keep the back straight, in it's natural position, with the shoulders rolled back. And a good (highly qualified with decades of experience and training) yoga instructor in a private one-on-one situation could possibly be very beneficial. And I'm not talking about exotic positions; just learning how to properly stand, bend forward, and breathe can make a huge difference. Again, I hope I'm not out of line here. It was just one picture and for all I know you always keep your back straight and have practiced or currently practice yoga. | ||
| adriaan
Senior Member Username: adriaan Post Number: 1138 Registered: 6-2002 |
Have to agree with Dave there: make sure you keep your back, neck and shoulders straight. Adjust the strap so the instrument sits where your arms and hands need it to sit, not the other way around. Even small changes can make a difference. | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 253 Registered: 10-2003 |
Hi guys. Just to clarify, I'm actually mid solo (!) there so was kind of "getting into it". But keeping the back straight is a problem, to be honest. If my bass was made of balsa, fine, but even an 8 pound bass is a bit of a problem. And unfortunately my spine curves to one side also, which doesn't help my posture (and I'm sure this is exacerbated by the fact that I work at a computer all day, which is terrible for your posture even without back problems, no matter how much attention you pay!) . With regards to the strap height thing, trust me, I've tried every possible alternative, on half a dozen different straps. If I wear the bass any higher, I have terrible upper back problems (partly from the disc and partly scar tissue from an old injury), far worse than if I play it lower, so I have a very small workable margin. I just cannot have the bass much higher than shown in the picture, otherwise I can hardly use my arms the next day. I even tried it with my old headless swamp ash Sei bass (which certainly weighed no more than 8 pounds, and probably less), and that was too much. Still, whereas I have tried pretty much everything else, yoga is something I haven't done yet, and will attempt to look into following my next assessment. I've posted another pic which is maybe slightly clearer...  Again, the head tilt is momentary, not constant. Harold, our stand in guitarist for the evening, is obviously showing how it should be done | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 254 Registered: 10-2003 |
One thing I should mention is that when wearing my Triple O, you could put a rod up my back but within minutes of putting the bass on, my legs start to tingle and go cold, amongst other things.....it affects me far, far worse than the Rics. | ||
| keurosix
Intermediate Member Username: keurosix Post Number: 127 Registered: 10-2005 |
Shaun, Maybe a good drummers throne or keyboard stool with back support will get you off your feet. For the leg, you can try various products to soften the blow of the 3rd bottom omega cut-out. Perhaps a neoprene knee support worn high, or even a gel-pad type of wrist support commonly found in computer stores. Don't give up on your Alembic! Worst case: you could try a lighter guitar with Alembic electronics. Years back I got a Modulus graphite Quantum TBX 5, and added a custom Alembic Activator circuit. The weight was considerably less than my Series 1, so I sold her. Bummer! Now I long for it back. Kris | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 763 Registered: 11-2004 |
Shaun, I sent you an e-mail and it bounced. Send me one with your address (if you like) and I'll e-mail you back. Please say "Alembic" in the subject. It helps me sift through all the junk mail. If you would prefer to talk on this thread, then that works too. Rich | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 255 Registered: 10-2003 |
Kris, you may be right. You know I've never (so far as I can remember) played a gig seated? I guess I may just have to get used to it, at least when using the Alembic, although as I say it's not comfortable to play seated, but I've been thinking along the same lines as you in terms of padding my leg. Ultimately it all seems a bit of a pain but maybe that's because I'm not used to thinking in terms of playing an instrument I can't just sling round my neck. I guess if I'd been an upright player it probably wouldn't be an issue. Maybe I can get a Robert Fripp-type thing going! Thanks for the advice BTW, it's all much appreciated. I have been considering what lighter options I could go for if it becomes too much, but it really would be a blow to be unable to play what is probably my favourite shape. Still, sometimes needs must, and I'd sooner play something lighter that to my eyes doesn't look as cool than not play at all, or experience severe discomfort whilst so doing. Rich, sorry about that, I forgot to change to my most recent e-mail address in my profile. If you click on now it should be ok. | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4558 Registered: 5-2002 |
The second picture does look better! The guitar player in my band, because of his back problems, sits on a bar stool at our gigs. | ||
| inthelows
Intermediate Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 116 Registered: 11-2006 |
Have you looked into GRACIE GUITAR STANDS? I use one to hold my Ovation acoustic. I know they have other types available for electrics. Might want to google or ebay it. NLP | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 953 Registered: 2-2006 |
These guys have them | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 954 Registered: 2-2006 |
They aren't cheap! | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 267 Registered: 10-2003 |
Hmm, that does indeed look interesting. You're right about them not being cheap though...ouch! | ||
| inthelows
Intermediate Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 117 Registered: 11-2006 |
Added pics. This is for round back types but others are available.   Hope this helps. If you don't need to move as much this was a life saver. I'd torn up my right rotator cuff and used this until it healed. NLP (Message edited by davehouck on December 17, 2006) | ||
| inthelows
Intermediate Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 118 Registered: 11-2006 |
It cost me over $2500. for my rotator cuff fix and a $160.00 stand was worth it to me. You might get a deal if you shop around! NLP | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 268 Registered: 10-2003 |
That's another one for the checklist....thanks for all the suggestions guys. | ||
| hb3
Intermediate Member Username: hb3 Post Number: 186 Registered: 2-2005 |
I'm married to a chiropractor. Good career move. | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 269 Registered: 10-2003 |
Wow, that'd save me a fortune....well, in chiropractic fees at least. Mind you, I do have mixed results with chiropractic (no offense to your other half intended!) | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 270 Registered: 10-2003 |
BTW - quote - "The guitar player in my band, because of his back problems, sits on a bar stool at our gigs". The only time our guitarist ISN'T sitting on a bar stool is at our gigs.. | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 958 Registered: 2-2006 |
Thats too funny Bill! | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4585 Registered: 5-2002 |
ROFL!!!!!!!!!! | ||
| hb3
Intermediate Member Username: hb3 Post Number: 187 Registered: 2-2005 |
Well, keep in mind there's good chiropractors and bad. A bad one can either jack you up or not do much either way, especially if they're not paying attention. In my case, I probably wouldn't be playing today at all without it. And it took getting cracked on a nearly daily basis for awhile for it to really have a helpful effect, so no, there's no way I could've afforded that. Scary! | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 275 Registered: 10-2003 |
Too right hb.... | ||
| kdub
New Username: kdub Post Number: 1 Registered: 12-2006 |
I saw this topic an decided I had to make a suggestion. As someone earlier stated about the stands(like in the Steve Howe pic) that was my first suggestion. If you have ever heard of keller williams he uses one for his bass. Ill find a picture for you. | ||
| kdub
New Username: kdub Post Number: 2 Registered: 12-2006 |
Here is a picture I found of Keller using the bass stand during a show.  (Message edited by davehouck on December 17, 2006) | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4631 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hi Tim, thanks for the picture and welcome to the board! Keller Williams is a great player! | ||
| sculleyhum
New Username: sculleyhum Post Number: 4 Registered: 12-2005 |
I saw a bass player this weekend using a Gracie Stand. He loves his - I have been looking for a solution for my Series II and wider padded straps just haven't done it. For solid body bass the Gracie stands are listed over $200...before I order one anybody else have experience with one for thier Alembic? | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 2245 Registered: 7-2004 |
I recently picked up an "Mbrace" stand. It is made of plastic and screws onto a mike stand. I haven't tried it with an Alembic, but have used it for my Jerry Jones Electric Sitar. It works fine. One mod I would recommend is to use strap locks with it as I don't trust the leather strap to hold up over the long haul. It's not as heavy duty as the Gracie, but it's a lot less expensive and, for my purposes, it seems to work fine. Here's a link. Bill, tgo | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4913 Registered: 5-2002 |
Just curious; which Jerry Jones Electric Sitar do you have? | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 2247 Registered: 7-2004 |
This one. I picked it up off craigslist for $500 in almost new condition. A one trick pony for sure, but it does that one trick very well. Bill | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4914 Registered: 5-2002 |
Cool! Very intriguing instrument! | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 295 Registered: 10-2003 |
Wow, I didn't realise this thread was still going!! As you may see from the For Sale section, I'm unfortunately thinking of selling my Triple O. It will be heartbreaking for me if I decide to go through with it, but I just can't justify having such a bass and not being able to play it, and to try and keep it purely for its aesthetics (i.e. there are other smaller, lighter basses - including some Alembics - out there which could do pretty near as good a job) just seems some kind of vanity. And much as I appreciate the suggestions, I think carrying a stand around in order to support a bass I can't otherwise play... well, I can't justify it. I'd like to thank everyone who has contributed to this thread and who has offered advice and support, with a special thanks reserved for Rich who has e-mailed me off-forum a few times and who I have been somewhat remiss in getting back to on time (Rich-I hope you're well!!!!). Thanks very much guys, you're the best. | ||
| hodge
Junior Username: hodge Post Number: 15 Registered: 11-2002 |
bbl. you only need to justify it to yourself,once your instrument has gone, its gone.. i have a health problem, and have not played my basses day,ly, for quite a while, but their still here.and there still mine... | ||
| hodge
Junior Username: hodge Post Number: 16 Registered: 11-2002 |
bbl. you only need to justify it to yourself,once your instrument has gone, its gone.. i have a health problem, and have not played my basses day,ly, for quite a while, but their still here.and there still mine... | ||
| bigbadbill
Advanced Member Username: bigbadbill Post Number: 332 Registered: 10-2003 |
As people are no doubt aware, I'm keeping the bass. One thing I have found; I haven't been to the chiropracter for a few months now, and my back seems to be coping better with my basses....go figure. |
