Custom Bass Designed for Alternate Tu... Log Out | Topics | Search
Moderators | Register | Edit Profile

Alembic Club » Dreaming... for now » Archive through October 06, 2007 » Archive 2003 » Archive through June 16, 2003 » Custom Bass Designed for Alternate Tunings « Previous Next »

Author Message
paul_boulet
Junior
Username: paul_boulet

Post Number: 12
Registered: 8-2002
Posted on Tuesday, April 15, 2003 - 11:46 am:   Edit Post

There was a model of custom bass made by another luthier (whom I’ll refrain from naming) specifically designed for configuring alternate tunings “on the fly.” This was done via a combination of a custom bridge and machine heads – somewhat similar to the Hipshot product line. I’ve included a picture of the bridge to help clarify. (I’ll name names if this still needs clarification.)

Bridge Detail

The bridge worked by setting up specific tunings connected to two levers: one for the two lower the other for the two upper strings. Flipping the lever then retuned the affected strings to the preset measurement. And, if I were to haul out the complete wish list, it would also include a three octave fretless neck with an accommodating deep cut-away on the body to allow access. So my question is can Alembic construct a similar combination of elements?

I have other, more Alembic style options in mind as well, but we’ll cover those when the big picture questions are out of the way…

Thanks for taking on the challenge. I’ll look forward to hearing the prospective answers.

-Paul (Leo)
prime
Member
Username: prime

Post Number: 91
Registered: 11-2002
Posted on Tuesday, April 15, 2003 - 4:43 pm:   Edit Post

Hi Paul,

I'm sure Alembic could do it but it would probably cost you a small fortune. Straight from the inventor this bass is EXTREMELY pricey. $8000 I believe. The one they list on their website does not come with the hipshot dtuners, the dtuneable bridge or the 5A grade flamed maple. Those options up the price $2700.

Also don't forget that the bass in question has a graphite neck and the string are ultra light gauge. (perhaps piccolo strings) to help accomodate the drastic changes in string tension. You may run into problems using regular light gauge strings and a maple/purpleheart, or maple/ebony neck.

Matt

P.S. Michael Manring rules. That is all. :-)

Topics | Last Day | Last Week | Tree View | Search | Help/Instructions | Program Credits Administration