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hornunit
New
Username: hornunit

Post Number: 1
Registered: 12-2005
Posted on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 - 11:00 am:   Edit Post

Hi, I'm looking to find and purchase a small scale Alembic. Can anyone give me advice as to which models to check out and which to avoid. Is there anything I should be aware of about buying a small scale bass?
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 2850
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 - 1:50 pm:   Edit Post

Hi Stephen; welcome to the group!

Alembic doesn't make or hasn't made anything that isn't of the highest quality. So, without knowing any more about what you are looking for, I can only say that there are no models that need be avoided.
jazzyvee
Advanced Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 318
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, January 03, 2006 - 3:53 am:   Edit Post

I agree with Dave on that, although it is worth noting that some of the short scale models do not balance as well as the long scale ones.

I have an SC Deluxe signature in the Small standard body shape that does suffer heavily from neck dive. To be honest, now I have got used to the neck dive and automatically compensate for it in my playing. It is a bit discerning when you first start playing it.

So I'd be mindful of that when chosing body shapes especially if you are going for more than 4 strings on a short scale.
A good wide strap also helps.
Jazzyvee
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 2931
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Tuesday, January 03, 2006 - 1:12 pm:   Edit Post

Just about every bass you see with this shape will be short scale:

small standard body shape

As you can see, there isn't much of an upper horn. This shape barely balances, usually at about 2:00-2:30 on a strap. Holding it up higher so that your right upper arm helps brace it works for some players. Also using a strap with a suede lining will help it "stick" in place.

Of course, you can order a short scale length on any body shape. If you require a higher balancing instrument, you can select a different shape to pair with the short scale.

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