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flaxattack
Senior Member
Username: flaxattack

Post Number: 2247
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 12:37 am:   Edit Post

btw- if you dont think i own them
call mica or go to the custom thread..

genus!
darkstar01
Intermediate Member
Username: darkstar01

Post Number: 151
Registered: 6-2005
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 1:25 am:   Edit Post

get 'em, flax. and ftr... i'm coming for you in that 'best sounding classico ever made' category. a show down is imminent. and also ftr, i think the toma hawk bass is a nice shape, underscore or not. i, personally, wouldn't have it painted. but hey- that's why they customize these things. either way it will be fun to watch, as always.
robinc
Intermediate Member
Username: robinc

Post Number: 142
Registered: 5-2008
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 2:05 am:   Edit Post

This has gotten out of hand.

This thread has gone from following the design of a concept bass to throwing petty insults back and forth. Honesty, guys, how old are you?

Flax: In my personal opinion, I think your comments on this thread have been pretty sarcastic in general and I can see how they could easily be taken to be insulting. Perhaps it started as a miscommunication but it is clear now that this exchange has escalated into anger. You are, of course, entitled to post whatever you wish where ever you wish (within the guidelines commonly understood on this forum/enforced by our dear mod Dave). But I believe that the age-old adage "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" applies beautifully here.

Hal: Please excuse me for saying something you already know, but remember that this bass is YOUR bass. If others disagree with your design, that is completely within their right, and if that bothers you I think you should just try to shrug it off. It really doesn't matter what anybody else thinks because this bass is for you. That being said, this forum is a wealth of information and is an extremely useful resource to tap. In the end, however, you are designing YOUR perfect custom and yours is the only opinion that matters.

Whenever I make an important decision or take on a meaningful project, I try to educate myself as much as possible on the topic in question so that I can follow the best course of action. I am a total believer in the usefulness of constructive criticism; I think it is a necessary part of any such project. However I am also convinced that criticism can be delivered in such a way that everyone's feelings and opinions are respected. Agree to disagree.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 564
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 9:31 am:   Edit Post

That was well said Robin.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9)

If you read this thread, and followed it closely, you will find, that I had taken Constructive criticism very well.

In fact, some valid concerns, from people I felt were important, were changed and improved. This is the spirit of community, I was hoping to share.

Right out gates, Flax said I was smoking "Crack"

Flax provided a pure form of "Destructive" criticism.

Now, just because I have a problem with him calling someone this degrading insult (which happens to be to my own defense) does not mean this is a example of not being able to take criticism.

For heaven sakes, call it for what it is. I had said nothing to prove to the facts that resulted to showing weakness toward anyone's constructive critiques about the my designs Toma_Hawk concept. Nor had I ever pit my concept against with any of the other amazing and beautiful Alembic basses created.

So, please don't match and compare and oversimplify Flex vs Hal... You had never read anywhere, where I had shown poor taste or acts of destructiveness. Hal don't roll like that...

Flex kind of rhetoric is violence, Calling someone a crackhead can be dangerous in some areas. All it takes is a spark, for a flame.

As for me, I don't need a referee, nor do I advocate censorship. I am extremely tolerant, just don't put your hands on my Children or me and peace will reign 360/24/7.

Besides my ego is never damaged by lies, but some people, don't take destructive criticism to kindly.

Anyone who calls women objects, must be never taken seriously anyway.

Flex, get some help.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 565
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 9:40 am:   Edit Post

Flex don't like the Toma_Hawk.

Ok, big deal, the birds will still sing, flowers will bloom, and lovers will love anyway.

Peace,

Hal-
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 2167
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 9:52 am:   Edit Post

Hal, you say "You had never read anywhere, where I had shown poor taste or acts of destructiveness." I seem to remember some discussions involving an Alembic and lighter fluid?
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 566
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 10:50 am:   Edit Post

Go back and recover what I said.

This was a fun discussion was about Jimi Hendrix setting his guitar on fire, and then smashing to pieces in Monterey California.

I said only Jimi could set his guitar on fire, and get away with it...

And I said, the only bassets I know who has the same level of skills is Stanley Clarke.

Never the less, I felt Stanley has reach the summit of his talent and is the master of the object called a bass guitar. If he'd burned his guitar, he would get away with it.

I then said, I would pay good money to witness this and Stanley Clarke came to mind.

My statement was a symbolic statement, based upon the the complex meaning when Jimi done this.

According to my father (Who was a student and graduate at Cal Berkeley) was there, and said it was very meaningful ritual. It was like Jimi exalted himself above the man made object in some way that assisted his prominence in America.

If you read any of Joseph Campbell works on culture and rites of passage, you may have a better clue to where I was coming from.

Some very wealthy people from other cultures, take a vow of poverty for spiritual cleansing and enlightenment. Some people sacrifices lambs. Jimi did his guitar.

Lastly, I said I don't believe I am qualified and had re-written the pages on music. Any guitar would upstage me, and in my opinion, I can't name anyone famous who would be deem qualified to perform this other than Stanley.

This was a complement to Stanley, and it was the highest accolade I could give him.

Some people brake expensive bottles of Champagne, just before launching a wonderful cruse ship. Some of those Champagne bottles may even be more valuable than any Alembic made, but people do it, and people applaud. Maybe you can identify with this ritual since it is a Western thing, and that's cool with me too.

But from the tone of your message, you are seeking fault, and I if you keep digging, you will find some, for nobody is perfect, and I would never want to be. I love learning!

Peace,

Hal-
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 3712
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 10:57 am:   Edit Post

Adriaan:

You beat me to it.

And, in all fairness, I don' see where Flax called women objects. In fact, I find his post to be just the opposite - recognizing that a woman should be judged on her mind, not her body.

Bill, tgo
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 2169
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 11:07 am:   Edit Post

Hal,

Having been exposed to film footage of Hendrix, Townsend and others vandalizing instruments many times over the years, I still remember my initial reaction over thirty years ago - my stomach turned. It's a rite of sacrilege, really. Smashing a bottle of champagne at the launch of a ship? Superstition and showing off.

Peace nonetheless,
Adriaan
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 3714
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 11:25 am:   Edit Post

Adriaan:

Have you ever heard John Hiatt's song "Perfectly Good Guitar"? You might like it (I certainly do).

Bill, tgo

Well he threw one down from the top of the stairs
Beautiful women were standing everywhere
They all got wet when he smashed that thing
But off in the dark you could hear somebody sing

CHORUS:
Oh it breaks my heart to see those stars
Smashing a perfectly good guitar
I don't know who they think they are
Smashing a perfectly good guitar

It started back in 1963
His momma wouldn't buy him
That new red harmony
He settled for a sunburst with a crack
But he's still trying to break his momma's back

REPEAT CHORUS

He loved that guitar just like a girlfriend
But ever good thing comes to an end
Now he just sits in his room all day
Whistling every note he used to play

There out to be a law with no bail
Smash a guitar and you go to jail
With no chance for early parole
You don't get out till you get some soul

REPEAT CHORUS

Late at night the end of the road
He wished he still had the old guitar to hold
He'd rock it like a baby in his arms
Never let it come to any harm
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 567
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 12:29 pm:   Edit Post

"Basses are like women?" Hummm...

What lead to this Woman/Bass comparison anyway, I like getting to the heart, I hate being ignorant, so lets read what he said, and what is really meant:

Flex's own words:

" i have seen and heard some of the alembicians "custom" concepts while at the factory- a couple of them looked great but sounded awful-"

Ok, his opinion: "...some great looking Alembics, sounded awful."

Meaning: The Toma_Hawk bass looks great, but it will sound awful.

Flex knows this, because the Toma_Hawk looks great.

What logic is this without actually listening, and hearing it play musical notes?

Even dismissing the woman/bass comparison, (which I won't...)

He already dismissed my bass before even hearing it.

But comparing women to basses (I JUST DON'T GET IT)?

Alembic make basses are as different, as people tastes. I think this is what a custom is all about. GREAT!

Some people are wine connoisseurs, but guess what?

Their opinions, although thoughtful and respectfully and may be taken seriously to those that drink, but since I don't drink, the knowledge is basically worthless if it is only centered on drinking.

I don't rag on people's basses. I think people who do this, shows a sign of there own greater weakness.

The greatest sin of man is prejudice. To condemn something with out fault. This a primal, deserves the clarification of a species or genus.

Honestly, there is nothing in the world than I love most, than to see people doing wholesome things for enhancing themselves especially musical in music, and there is good in everybody and Flax is not my enemy nor are you.

Nobody is perfect and his words, are his, and I will be judge for my short comings too.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 568
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 12:34 pm:   Edit Post

Nobody is perfect and in this world nor is Flex. I will be judge for my short comings soon enough.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 569
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 12:47 pm:   Edit Post

Hal,

"Having been exposed to film footage of Hendrix, Townsend and others vandalizing instruments many times over the years, I still remember my initial reaction over thirty years ago - my stomach turned. It's a rite of sacrilege, really. Smashing a bottle of champagne at the launch of a ship? Superstition and showing off."

Then, you have a weak stomach.

Peace,

Hal-
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 570
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 2:20 pm:   Edit Post

The time I burned my guitar it was like a sacrifice. You sacrifice the things you love. I love my guitar.

-Jimi Hendrix
flaxattack
Senior Member
Username: flaxattack

Post Number: 2254
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 2:25 pm:   Edit Post



(Message edited by flaxattack on April 16, 2009)
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 571
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 3:49 pm:   Edit Post

Well, that was so nice Flex. I thank you for your validation. The Toma_Hawk is ugly ok, got it (why did you take so long?)

I wish you well too.

Let me leave with this...

Flex, I was born blessed in so many ways it would make you mind spin. I been on this earth long enough to understand and properly deal with people like you. In a way I feel sorry for your over simplifications of this complex world.

Dude, you are really over acting, and getting irate like I really care about what you have to say. You absolutely nothing about me, and I can care less of what you think. So, just go and play your three basses or whatever you do...

Far as I am concern, from the very beginning of this thread, your comments were never invited, or warranted, for comments. It was you that had negativity in your heart to throw the first blow by call me a Crackhead for creating the Toma_Hawk with Translucent Pickups. (Certain irony of this, links to the bridge, on the depiction of the Classico) is translucent.

BUT SO WHAT, for now own, let's be men and honor a charter from this day forward, from any future threads I start, if you see hendixclarke, just avoid the temptation from joining OK!

I promise the same accord. Do we have a deal?

I give you my word, I will not join your discussion!

Peace,

Hal-
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 572
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 3:54 pm:   Edit Post

Can you be a MAN enough to avoid my discussion and I will avoid your air space as well?

A good fence make great neighbors.

Can we have this accord?

YES OR NO?
bluplirst
Member
Username: bluplirst

Post Number: 52
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 8:24 pm:   Edit Post

I'm confused-where did this all go wrong? I hope Dave chimes in to clear this all up. In the meantime can't you guys sign a treaty or something? badum bum
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 6050
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 8:35 pm:   Edit Post

Hi. Let's clear this up even before Dave chimes in. We have the power! I'd really prefer if all participants can keep personal communications confined to personal emails.

It's sufficient to say some like chocolate, and some like vanilla. Of course, I like coconut, but you know what I mean. Thanks.

back to business: Hal, you should check your email for the price quote you requested. Terry has a copy too and he'll be in the shop doing repairs tomorrow.
tmoney61092
Member
Username: tmoney61092

Post Number: 75
Registered: 9-2008
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 9:00 pm:   Edit Post

3rd party opinion, Toma Hawk is not overly attractive, no one knows how it will sound yet, could sound like a cat in the engine of a car being started up(but it's an Alembic, so it can't sound bad), could sound like a choir of a thousand angels singing in perfect harmony, Flax didn't mean women are like basses, he was saying it's the stuff on the inside that counts, meaning their personality(you pervs).

The weak stomach comment, that didn't even make since, it's like being kissed by a girl for the first time, holding hands, first time having sex, getting married, if your stomach doesn't turn then something is wrong with you mentally. When it does happen, that doesn't mean you have a weak stomach, think before you say things, please.

Stanley Clarke is definetly not the only other person worthy of destroying an instrument, that is a personal opion(i don't even like him that much, just not my thing) but there are still plenty of musicians worthy of destroying their equipment if they so please to do so.

So guys, if you are going to argue, make sure that it is even worth it before using the same argument each time(shows lack of intelligence), and make sure that you know what you are talking about.

Thank You

~Taylor

P.S.- i liked that song, Bill

(Message edited by tmoney61092 on April 16, 2009)
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 573
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2009 - 9:31 pm:   Edit Post

Mica, I am looking forward t moving forward with the Toma_Hawk.

This will be a Awesome project, and a very remember able project to say the least.

Thank you and I look forward to details as we move forward...

Many thanks, for the Toma_Hawk is getting ready for flight.
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 2172
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 3:11 am:   Edit Post

Bill - re John Hiatt: love the lyrics, can't stand the singer.
jacko
Senior Member
Username: jacko

Post Number: 2184
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 4:46 am:   Edit Post

I just want to chip in here on the subject of destroying instruments. Whilst it's possibly ok for someone to destroy a fender that was made by a machine which doesn't care either way, I can just imagine that the handful of artisans at Alembic would be appalled and heartbroken at seeing an instrument that they had a personal hand in crafting being destroyed.
Also, I think it highly unlikely that Stanley would even countenance it, considering that, apart from the dragon's breath, he's paid the same as us for his Alembics.

Graeme
olieoliver
Senior Member
Username: olieoliver

Post Number: 2263
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 6:36 am:   Edit Post

I think the destroying of any instrument is a self indulgent waste. It's bad enough we live in a world where we waste its natural resources for personal gain and comfort. Regardless of how inexpensive an instrument it is, somewhere someone could use it.

Don't burn or smash it, DONATE IT.

OO
jacko
Senior Member
Username: jacko

Post Number: 2187
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 6:39 am:   Edit Post

Nicely put Olie.

Graeme
gregduboc
Member
Username: gregduboc

Post Number: 82
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 7:11 am:   Edit Post

Olie, I agree with every word you've just said. Here in Brazil, were music schools are not able to afford instruments, those donations would help to create some amazing musicians. Instead of giving an artist a second of glory, it could give a future artist a life of glory...
Hal, sorry to change the subject on your thread, I just felt that I needed to lay my opinion on the destroying instruments subject...
Greg
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 3717
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 7:28 am:   Edit Post

There out to be a law with no bail
Smash a guitar and you go to jail
With no chance for early parole
You don't get out till you get some soul
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 574
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 7:54 am:   Edit Post

The soul of this thread was napalmed like many of the other threads I created.

I'll just say a prayer, and let this one rest in peace.

It is amazing how the same people kill's my threads. I will say nothing more, for I accept the position of humility before a much larger problem than this.


This really is hilarious!
smokinbear
Junior
Username: smokinbear

Post Number: 11
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 8:13 am:   Edit Post

Can't we all just get a bong??????? By the way I love your idea or any idea that has originality, you are gonna love the Toma-Hawk and thats all that matters. I wish you the best of times with your new creation. Congrats! Peace & low notes......Bear
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 575
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 8:44 am:   Edit Post

The weak always recruits.

Thus it takes many Hyenas to take down a Lion.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 576
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 9:16 am:   Edit Post

Thanks Smokin Bear.

The Toma_Hawk will be made by the best people in the business, so I have no bit, byte, and/or musical note of worries in my heart.

I will love all the flaws too, for there is nothing on earth perfect, nor is life about this anyway...

Peace,

Hal-
gregduboc
Member
Username: gregduboc

Post Number: 84
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 12:20 pm:   Edit Post

Hal, I don't think you should get upset that some threads evolve into some other discussions... Every conversation leads to another, otherwise, we would stuck with silence.
I believe that you are probably feeling like this because this thread represents your dream, and some upsetting stuff happened here.
But let me tell you something: I'm placing all my bets that the Toma_Hawk is going to be one of the best basses around. Different, full of passion, original and unique. And you know that nothing should make you feel otherwise.
It is indeed a shame what happened here, but it happened. And I'm sure that will be soon forgotten... because bad stuff happens to give strength to the stuff that really matters.
I'm for sure one of the people here that will follow your bass step by step. Because I realized it is not only another custom bass, but another custom dream. And that is what Alembic does. They build dreams.
Sorry if I said anything wrong here, I never intended to say anything of such nature.

Greg
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 578
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 3:48 pm:   Edit Post

TOMA_HAWK UPDATE:

Just got the approval and blessing from Susan and Mica that the Toma_Hawk Bass can be made with no limits in sound quality, playability, and performance.

Susan also boldly said, if there were any design problems that would cause problems, the Toma_Hawk concept would had never been accepted. Alembic quality will never be compromised.

Not only am I very happy to understand this philosophy, I am also honored to have had my design accepted to enter the very long halls of Alembic Inc today!

The ball is now rolling, so bring on the love, and positivity to see this bass concept move from here, to the virtual halls of: "FACTORY TO CUSTOMER"

Aproved!

Let's build THE TOMA_HAWK BASS!!!! :D
gregduboc
Member
Username: gregduboc

Post Number: 91
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 9:27 pm:   Edit Post

Congratulations Hal!!!! Such good news!! Time to watch carefully the FTC!!

Greg
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 580
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 3:48 am:   Edit Post

Thanks Greg,

If you notice, I had second thoughts on clear pickups after thinking really hard about them. Clear pickups does not contrast better than the black pickups against (Maroon) flame Maple.

I had also done away with the white side walls or bindings. I felt it was too much of a cosmetic add-on, that just was was not necessary. The Les Paul look got lesser and lesser.

However I added something new to the concept bass; I added a Master volume control.

So, yeah this baby is headed to the factory this week and the pictures are my latest renderings.






Body: Maroon Flame Maple front/Mahogany middle/ Maroon Flame Maple Back.

Neck: Ebony Laminate

Neck Finger Board: Ebony.

Neck Side wall: Blue Side LED'S.

Mother of Pearl Oval Standards Inlays.

Body Shape: Toma_Hawk Body!
gregduboc
Member
Username: gregduboc

Post Number: 96
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 6:19 am:   Edit Post

Hal, personally, I never really approved the idea of the clear pickups... I think the black ones will give your bass a much better look...! "Keep it simple", remember? :-)
Now, just a thought: did you consider moving the Pickup selector switch to the lower horn instead of this new set up?
I'm just afraid that maybe it will make the knobs section to busy like this...

Greg
altgrendel
Member
Username: altgrendel

Post Number: 64
Registered: 5-2008
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 8:09 am:   Edit Post

Keep in mind that the Flying "V" and the Explorer were considered "strange" in their time. Look what those '58 beauties are worth today.

Good luck, Hal.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 582
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 11:21 am:   Edit Post

The more I look at these renderings, the more I want this bass. These drawings had been such a tease for me.

I originally -- (if you look at the first draft), had black pickups, but clear ones were dancing in my head.

I wanted something unusual looking. Something in my mind that said: "this is different" and foreign. Over time, I started to slowly reject it after Mica showed me the guts, it was too much of a dominate copper.

Copper (Orange) and a maroon body, didn't contrast well. When colors don't contrast, it can be a energy drainer for most people, including myself.

So it was not the nature of clear pickups, it was the visible color (copper) from inside the the pickups, I had a problem with...

If the Toma_Hawk body was all Black, the clear pickups and copper would be awesome, and look Stealthy! The Maroon colors (if used) could only then be a mere accent to the black.

So, there it is...
jalevinemd
Senior Member
Username: jalevinemd

Post Number: 735
Registered: 12-2003
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 6:04 pm:   Edit Post

Just curious about the spelling. What is the significance (if any) of the _ between Toma and Hawk?
jalevinemd
Senior Member
Username: jalevinemd

Post Number: 736
Registered: 12-2003
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 6:04 pm:   Edit Post

Just curious about the spelling. What is the significance (if any) of the _ between Toma and Hawk?
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 583
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 7:25 pm:   Edit Post

The shape of the Toma_Hawk is the most valid feature for my playing style.

In Normal play, I get the same comfort from my Small Body Series I, where I am resting my forearm on the basses most extended part of the body...

My body is basically in a neutral position, with movements only from my arms, hands and fingers. Thus I am not exerting much energy from other parts of my body like my legs, and back.
I call this: "The Neutral Position" in playing an electric bass.

Again, the Toma_Hawk plays like any Small Body Series bass in Normal Play. (See caption)

In Slap/Pop Play mode, the Toma_Hawk action is distinctly different from my Short Body Series I.

The Toma_Hawk was designed to support the Slap/Pop Play forms of bass playing.

The Toma_Hawk will add greater balance between both Normal Play and Slap/Pop.

When I play in the Slap/Pop mode, (The Attack mode) the Toma_Hawk's wedged back is less restrictive and resistance of my arm movements, and this is what makes this body wonderful form me!

Also, in the Slap/Pop Play mode, I am exerting many more muscles and I am getting a great workout too, and I need freedom to move! (This is where the bass becomes my percussion instrument, and I get a true jazz-exercise "Jazzercise" ) for the groove!

To some it all up:

I definitively feel this shape supports both styles more equally to support my cultural musical style.

"The Toma_Hawk is like having (2) Alembic Basses in (1) cool design!"

Peace,

Hal-

hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 584
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 7:47 pm:   Edit Post

Jonathan,

The significance...hummm

Symbolically, the name (Toma Hawk) is above or over the line, or a cut above the line.

Literally, an underscore (_) is a character while the hyphen (-) is a math symbol.

Thus, "Toma_Hawk" is (2) twice correct (Symbolically and Literally) above the line, and is a character or has it :-)

It's also a habit.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 585
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 7:58 pm:   Edit Post

To "sum" it all up: (remix)

I definitively feel the Toma_Hawk shape supports both styles more equally to support my cultural musical style.

"The Toma_Hawk is like having (2) Alembic Basses in (1) cool design!"

Peace,

Hal-
bsee
Senior Member
Username: bsee

Post Number: 2294
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 9:06 pm:   Edit Post

So, has the order been placed? I'm confused. You said it was "approved", but it looks like you then were discussing electronics tweaks after that.

I guess I understand the performance intent of your design now. The conservative among us would add a bevel to the upper body of the small standard body to gain some of that freedom of arm movement you're looking for.

Are you sure about your knob positions? One thing I would consider is whether I am more likely to be making pickup configuration changes (pickup selector switch) or volume changes (master volume) during an individual song. For me, it would be volume changes and I would probably want that master volume swapped with your pickup selector. The fact that I do most of my right hand work closer to the neck than the bridge would also factor into the decision. If I played anchored at the bridge, I might still go with your layout as the master volume would then be better accessible with your layout.

With the pickup selector then placed between the Q switches, I would want the point aimed straight up for the both pickups position, forward for the neck, back for the bridge, and the off position would fall wherever it falls.

Of course, nothing is perfect for everyone, but it pays to consider how you're going to use it, if the order isn't already in.

-bob
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 586
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 10:40 pm:   Edit Post

The order has been placed, and the whole paper work, has been settled. The "Opening Kickoff" for this game, starts Monday!

As for a bevels, I factored their usefulness, and found them great for strumming electric guitars like my Fender Strat. But when I play them in Normal Play, I want the support and not something beveled. The Toma_Hawk shape is my definitive answer.

Susan and Mica will get my measurements for the Toma_Hawk and the model templates.

As far as the control knobs, that was the biggest headache because I had assumed "ideally" I could use double functional pots... which would be only two or three knobs at best, and two Q switches, and a pickup selector switch. Less is more.

So, after having the traditional diamond pattern, and looking at it and letting it marinate in my mind, I got some very good advices from other Alembicans to add a Master volume, then I kicked that around, and finally came up with the arraignments, and then edited my final cut to Mica. What you see, is the final rendering. I am completely satisfied, and I don't think there will be anymore changes from this perspective.

The pickup selector will be at the front of the other controls but will not be placed at the horn like with the olders Small Body. People complained about hitting the selector switch including Stanley Clarke, so Susan mandated a change unless special ordered.

I agree with the change whole heatedly, thus the Toma_Hawk design will not have the selector control on the horn.

The Master Volume in my mind, should be in the middle of the controls. Once I get my pickups in in the correct intonation, I can simply crank it or damping it to a hum. This means, I don't need to re-tweak the tone if I slightly change the volume of a pickup. This was my direction, but with the Master volume in the middle, I don't need to look for it.

The Q switches are as a point, in a triangle with the Bridge Volume and Tone. It like what home designers speak about when you are in the kitchen. You want the triangle of the sink; the fridge; and the stove/oven. Using the triangle map, made sense for each pickup controls as well.

I like the whole idea of controls following the body symmetrically. So for the most part, I am pretty happy with the layout. I don't see a reason to be concern at this point.

The 1/4" connection will either be on top of the lower end of the bass, or it will be between the bass.

I think we are pretty set.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 587
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Sunday, April 19, 2009 - 8:39 am:   Edit Post

A very remember-able quote from Susan I will always remember was when she said:

"When you get your new bass, your older Series I, will get jealous."

That was scary, because it was like she read my mind...for she's right. :-)
gregduboc
Member
Username: gregduboc

Post Number: 99
Registered: 11-2008
Posted on Sunday, April 19, 2009 - 12:21 pm:   Edit Post

Let there be light!!!! Or should I say thunder???

Greg
altgrendel
Member
Username: altgrendel

Post Number: 65
Registered: 5-2008
Posted on Monday, April 20, 2009 - 7:37 am:   Edit Post

"The 1/4" connection will either be on top of the lower end of the bass, or it will be between the bass."

I'm sorry, I don't understand what you mean.
hendixclarke
Senior Member
Username: hendixclarke

Post Number: 588
Registered: 6-2007
Posted on Monday, April 20, 2009 - 8:57 am:   Edit Post

A typical 1/4" connection inlet, are generally located on the top surface, at the tail end of the body...

I like this position, but I am not sure if there will be enough space there.

The other option, is like shown here on the Monty:

http://www.alembic.com/info/fc_monty.html

I hope this makes better sense.
altgrendel
Member
Username: altgrendel

Post Number: 66
Registered: 5-2008
Posted on Monday, April 20, 2009 - 11:18 am:   Edit Post

Yes, thanks.

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