| Author | Message | ||
| superswede
New Username: superswede Post Number: 1 Registered: 1-2010 |
Hi, I am concidering selling my "The Fish" - Alembic Custom bass. I bought it from Edwin van Huik, Bass Connection in Hilversum in 2005. Reason is that it is too good - a piece of art. I never use it on stage because I am afraid to damage it. For information about the bass - please check out the Custom Archive on this site. | ||
| mike1762
Senior Member Username: mike1762 Post Number: 448 Registered: 1-2008 |
Which thread is it??? | ||
| lembic76450
Intermediate Member Username: lembic76450 Post Number: 195 Registered: 5-2002 |
Mike It is here | ||
| sjhoffma
Intermediate Member Username: sjhoffma Post Number: 129 Registered: 5-2008 |
One of my favorite Alembic custom archive basses! I could never afford it, but just out of curiosity, and for those who are interested, how much are you looking for? I'm a guitar player myself, and really want another series I guitar, but if I was ever in the market for a high end bass, that would surely be the one! gorgeous! | ||
| u14steelgtr
Intermediate Member Username: u14steelgtr Post Number: 106 Registered: 7-2003 |
I play pricier instruments than your Bass in public places occasionally. It is unfortunate that you are unable to play it in public. I understand your concern about damaging any fine instrument. But at the end of the day it is a musical instrument. I suggest that you just make a commitment to yourself to play it at a few specific gigs. The first time is always the hardest but after a few times it will get easier and your anxiety will decline. This said; you still must use good stands. On the other hand if you can not use it, you might consider donating it. I will send to you my address off-list if you are so inclined. -E | ||
| poor_nigel
Junior Username: poor_nigel Post Number: 45 Registered: 11-2009 |
This Series II bass has a custom body shape and extra laminates, custom inlay on the body, burl walnut top and back, rays on the inlaid logo, custom electronics, abalone fingerboard inlays, tummy and elbow contours, alder body, and a custom scale length of 33 inches. Do you really play instruments that cost up to $30,000? If we are talking steel guitars, pictures please! I love steel guitars - they are really cool, but I did not think they went that high in price. Just curious. Hey Bosse, welcome! My S II ranges around the replacement cost of yours, and I will play it in public. I cannot see not playing my bass where ever I am playing. Insurance is the key. Sooner or later it is going to get a nick, bump, bruise or whatever, and I will probably scream, but life and my enjoyment of the bass will go on. If it needs to be fixed, I will put a claim in on its insurance policy and get it done. Maybe you should get a shock gun and zap anyone that gets within three feet of you and your bass. It will not take more than a time or two to have the whole band walking wide circles around you, and you can feel more secure with your bass, though probably a little less secure in keeping your position in the band. Hey, there is always another band, right? Where are you going to find another bass like yours? Beautiful bass, play it everwhere! | ||
| 88persuader
Advanced Member Username: 88persuader Post Number: 368 Registered: 5-2004 |
I sold my 3 Alembics for the same reason. I was afraid to damage such beautiful and EXPENSIVE instruments on gigs so didn't use them and what good is an instrument if it's not played? But I kick myself for selling them now and for not using them then. The question has to be asked, is it worth buying such an instrument if you can't use it? My answer then was no and I sold my Alembics. My answer TODAY is still NO but I'm sorry I didn't keep and play my Alembics and stop worrying about little dings and stuff. If it were a Fender or any other brand the dings and wear on the instrument would be considered MOJO and a badge of honor!!! Is it so different with Alembics? An unplayed instrument is a sin! Unless you're strapped for money I say throw caution to the wind and enjoy the bass. It's a musical instrument that was designed to be played, not just looked at and protected. Today I wish I had lived by those words and kept my Alembics! I'm no longer gigging and can't afford to replace them and now that I'm semi-retired and spending time writing and recording in my home studio (Gotta love Apple's Logic Pro recording software) I really miss the easy playability and high quality sound I got from my Alembics. | ||
| briant
Senior Member Username: briant Post Number: 406 Registered: 12-2004 |
"Reason is that it is too good - a piece of art. I never use it on stage because I am afraid to damage it." I've never understood this mentality. It’s a musical instrument and was meant to be played – not just stared at. I wouldn’t hesitate in the least to play that bass at any gig. | ||
| mike13
Member Username: mike13 Post Number: 72 Registered: 11-2007 |
I take my S2 and Essence to every gig,and if it's a jazz gig my fretless and play what I feel like they are not there to look at,but to play the s--t out of!!! | ||
| gtrguy
Advanced Member Username: gtrguy Post Number: 277 Registered: 9-2004 |
If you don't play out with them, then RECORD with them! There are so many great digital recorders out there these days... write songs, learn to sing, take up guitar also or keys. Bye, Dave | ||
| the_jester
Intermediate Member Username: the_jester Post Number: 129 Registered: 12-2009 |
The Fish bass is an amazing custom bass with an original appeal. I know people who must have the highest quality of everything, and barely find time to use them because they're too busy working to pay the stuff off, and/or too afraid to add deprecation. But they love to show it off. If it is necessary to pay for something, get your money's worth, know everything about your instrument, and try anything, and everything to find your deepest level of satisfaction from the sound it creates, and boldly use it like your favorite pair of sneakers; play that thing to the point of routine repair. In other words, put some miles on it... "If you "CAN" afford to purchase an Alembic, then you absolutely "CAN NOT" afford "NOT", to play them." Otherwise, you might as well put that bass on the wall (behind glass) as decor, because Alembics make any home look good. That's still a purpose for them too, so if that's the deal, more power to you, and to each-their own slice. Peace and Love, Hal- (Message edited by the_jester on January 24, 2010) | ||
| superswede
New Username: superswede Post Number: 2 Registered: 1-2010 |
Thanks for all good advice guys. I ususally use a Jay Dee or my Status on stage. Must say I really appriciate this forum since everybody is so engaged in the subjects. Does anybody know what would be the current market value of The Fish? | ||
| ajdover
Senior Member Username: ajdover Post Number: 804 Registered: 11-2003 |
A series II with that many custom features is hard to call. I just got my custom a couple of months ago, and I know what it cost me. It doesn't have a lot of the bells and whistles yours does, so it's hard for me to guess. I'd check eBay and see what "average" Series II's are going for, add in your custom features, condition of the instrument, etc. and go from there. Also, the price you paid for it will also, obviously, play into the price. Best of luck with the sale should you decide to go that route. It's a beautiful instrument, and I love the body shape. Too bad I don't have the scratch for it ... ;-( Best regards, Alan | ||
| molan
Junior Username: molan Post Number: 38 Registered: 6-2009 |
Let me check how much is in my bank account - whatever it is I think that's about how much it's worth  | ||
| the_jester
Intermediate Member Username: the_jester Post Number: 130 Registered: 12-2009 |
There's a big difference between a custom bass, and a bass that gets personalized. Personalized basses has the traditional Alembic shape(s), but are personalized with insignias. For example: initials, names, symbols, images, and/or personal quotes -- are personal insignias. If the owners initials on the bass, are different from mine, I am in a favorable position as a buyer, to request a remedy for this conflict, of a different initial(s) from my name... and guess what...? there are possibly other potential personal insignias reviewed on the bass that conflicts a buyers personal preferences as well. How will you as a seller, address this concern? Custom shape basses are also hard to sell because they don't stick to standards consumer(s) are accustomed to viewing and conceptualizing. Some shapes may be too plain, or too many bells and/or too many bells & whistles. Again, how will you as a seller, address this concern? So, in short -- I believe you should keep your bass because its personalized, and it has a unique custom body, and that means lower re-sale for those who smell blood. So, if you don't have to sell, (like I said...) get that bass outside and on stage and play it. Also, its hard to sell something, if you don't believe in the value. Custom basses are much harder to sell, because people are not always "a-custom" to change, nor do they understand your values, and it's not in their interest to care. A buyer will take advantage of your custom items, and use it against you, to get the most lowest price. In real estate, people add pools to their backyard, thinking it will raise the value of their home. Most people will go for the home without the pool, even if the desire for a pool manifest, they simply may not like the shape of your pool; and find it best, to look for a lot to define their dream pool. Also, as someone who owns a radical looking Alembic called: The Toma_Hawk, I designed my bass to "point-blank" solve a problem as a light bulb or as a ergonomically made Herman Miller chair... and it has no personal insignias. I have no plans what so ever, selling this bass. In fact, this bass was never created for selling. In my mind, this bass is like an extension of me as a specialized musical limb or a personal and magical broom-stick, which only understand me as the driver, like in the Harry Potter movies. KEEP YOUR BASS, AND PLAY IT!!! Peace and Love, Hal- (Message edited by the_jester on January 24, 2010) | ||
| keith_h
Senior Member Username: keith_h Post Number: 1500 Registered: 2-2005 |
Actually Hal this is a custom bass. The bass body was designed specifically for Edwin Van huik and this particular bass was built for him as his personal bass. Keith | ||
| the_jester
Intermediate Member Username: the_jester Post Number: 131 Registered: 12-2009 |
Yeah, It's a custom body with personalized insignias. The bass is gorgeous, and unless Edwin Van Huik is famous, where this could add some intrinsic value to this bass, or if Edwin sold the bass discounted to Bosse, then there's a good chance the bass could be sold at a fair value in which Bosse could make a good exit. But, some people don't like buying someone else's customs, unless they are a huge fans of the designer/player or both. So, if you plan on having a custom bass made which you plan to sell, your already at a lost. For example: My Toma_Hawk's shape may or may not be as valuable as the small body, "but-so-what" this does not matter to me, nor will this question be placed on the table -- because I flat-out, have no interest selling my bass anyway. However, there's a big difference between NOT having your custom bass for sale, and someone at liberty, makes an offer to buy your bass out-right.... This turns the table for some custom owners... But that's a fairy tail conclusion. The making for a great movie... Back to reality... Custom basses are theoretically for people who plan to keep their basses, and thus selling is ironic, because it's like selling your own essences and qualities at a finite price. But then again, human beings are filled with many ironies, and there are no rules to the game of life. Some Married people say: "I DO", but their actions say: "I Don't". Don't anybody even think, I'll sell my Toma_Hawk, you'll be wasting your time. Good luck Bosse. Peace and Love, Hal- (Message edited by the_jester on January 25, 2010) | ||
| darkstar01
Advanced Member Username: darkstar01 Post Number: 203 Registered: 6-2005 |
hal, you're making it sound like this bass was built with the sole intention of being sold. i highly doubt that's the case, and i strongly disagree that customized basses are hard to sell. i mean, i agree with the point about initials, but that's about it. you used your custom as an example. i would think (even though i know you're never going to sell it) it being the first of a new body shape would allow you to sell it for MORE than a normal small standard. either way, good luck on the sale Bosse. I always thought the EVH shapes were interesting. | ||
| keith_h
Senior Member Username: keith_h Post Number: 1502 Registered: 2-2005 |
Hal, You can't equate custom with the disposition of an instrument. I happen to be the type that keeps my basses. I can afford it. For various reasons not all folks can keep everything they buy. There are also those that believe that rather than stuff it under the bed it is better sell it so it gets played. Some folks determine they just don't like Alembic so sell them to get something they do like. None of these reasons change the facts on whether a bass is custom, personalized or mass produced. One could say your Toma_hawk is a personalized instrument as to me it resembles a standard small body with the wings chopped off. You keep going off on tangents. Nobody cares about the value of your toma_hawk bass to you. This thread was someone offering a Custom Alembic. The OP asked for an idea of a value. Alan gave him some good advice on how to determine the value. Most everyone here knows that all Alembics take a large hit from the original new sales price to the used market. Yet after the first sale Alembics generally hold their used value very well. That is why some folks here prefer to purchase used instruments. Others, like myself, don't care and purchase new. Again there is nothing wrong with either philosophy it is just personal preference. Keith | ||
| the_jester
Intermediate Member Username: the_jester Post Number: 132 Registered: 12-2009 |
Keith, All original basses come from somewhere. Nobody corners the market of ideas that eventually becomes supported, and mass marketed. My custom bass (like most people who orders them...) are "GENERALLY" not created for mass market appeal, and which case, in all likelihood (if sold), mostly be sold at a discounted price, than what was originally paid except in/on rare occasions. Keith you are very correct about used Alembics in general, the price I paid for my blond short body was extremely low -- in comparing what they'd cost new, and it allowed the doors to swing wide open to afford my own custom. Also, if I had the money, I would had added my initials and even a beautiful small tomahawk, made with real onyx. But, frankly I didn't want to wait another year, and money is tight (As it always is...) So, I would had added "HAL" TOMA_HAWK, but the option is still open on this too (after I save up, on some cash). Also, for your information, I have a dream bass in the works (right now) called "The Jester" and it's also designed for ME. I am sure it borrows some resemblance of other "BASS- CLASSES" and for this is what it is... it's simply a bass. Its a BASS... and that's the category it will always falls under. You might not like either basses, but my basses simply, were not created for you, nor for purposes of being sold. The custom basses for me, is my custom shoe, made completely for the qualities I like, and without considerations of others unless the engineering can't support it. Also, there was never a mystery about my love for Short Body Alembics, and my desires to make them even better, and for me, my Toma_Hawk's shape is the answer for me. But you make my changes, sound so easy. Frankly Keith, the changes were not as simple as you wish to project it... But if its that simple (leaving out all the planing and engineering), and this is what you believe, I'll add to your simplification, and say "that's cool too..." May you never have to sell your custom. Peace and Love, Hal- (Message edited by the_jester on January 25, 2010) | ||
| artswork99
Senior Member Username: artswork99 Post Number: 972 Registered: 7-2007 |
Why the contradiction? How can one say that "money is tight" in a sentence and several sentences later state that another bass is in the "works" (jester). I guess typing fingers move faster than the brain. Back to the original subject. Bosse, Welcome to a great place. The Alembic forum is full of very interesting facts on many great instruments! Personally I think you should keep it and take that bass out and PLAY IT! As to its worth, you already know that is subjective. Try to sell it for whatever you want as that's your right. All the best. Play it Healthy! Art | ||
| artswork99
Senior Member Username: artswork99 Post Number: 973 Registered: 7-2007 |
Bosse, And a bunch of really great folks here too! Regards, Art | ||
| the_jester
Intermediate Member Username: the_jester Post Number: 134 Registered: 12-2009 |
Art, I agree with you... I'll always feel money is full of contradictions too. Don't think so? Look at the stock market, or the value of homes... ha haa... Up for a second, but down for years. Much love to your message... indeed money is tight. But, we all must live knowing certainties and greater possibilities, in order to be motivated enough to push our selves to better music as much as we can regardless to uncertainties. So, in preparation of having the Jester move forward, first things first... I am designing the sliding mechanisms, which allows me (as a user) to slide my pickups right, and left -- similar to a child using the knobs of a good old Classic "Etch-A-Sketch". This is my definitions, of a cool fretless bass design and function. Look simple, easy to explain, and it's still very complex and challenging, and it's innovative too. If I can see it, it can "BE-IT". Peace and Love, Hal- (Message edited by the_jester on January 25, 2010) | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 487 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hey, I'm Edwin too, maybe I should buy it. I'm Alembicless at the moment. But I'm on a slow search for at least a 5. I think you should take it out into the world and play the heck out of it. It's very beautiful, but so would be the music that would come forth. |
