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the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 437
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 10:37 am:   Edit Post



Please forgive me, but I really wanted to share my joy and these first pictures with the Club. In about a week (maybe sooner) this bass will arrive in The Netherlands, and she's got my name on her!



Specs: Benavente SC5B with Mahogany body, Ebony accent laminate, Buckeye Burl top and headstock facing, 7-piece Maple and Ebony neck, figured maple fingerboard, Abalone block inlays, Aero dual coil pickups and Benavente preamp with volume/volume/treble/mid/bass/passive.



Beat this for provenance: this exact same bass was reviewed in the March 2003 issue of Bass Player magazine, pi$$ed off no-one less than the great Anthony Jackson, caused a heated debate between Fodera and Benavente enthousiasts on the internet and a stream of letters to Bass Player magazine!

Hopefully my home will be a safe asylum for her after all the fuss she's had to cope with...

Wilfred

(Message edited by the_mule on March 01, 2005)
bassdr
New
Username: bassdr

Post Number: 9
Registered: 10-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 11:13 am:   Edit Post

Very, Very Cool Wilfred! Looks to me like a whale with it's mouth open- should have a very deep beautiful voice! Michael(Flame Koa Essence 4)
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 439
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 11:56 am:   Edit Post

You've got my kind of fantasy & really nailed it there Michael! Seriously, I was thinking about naming the bass 'Moby' after Moby Dick, because of the shape, the colour, the notoriousness of the beast as described in my first post and the figuring of the Buckeye Burl looking like the scars from hundreds of harpoons!

Wilfred
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 440
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 12:13 pm:   Edit Post

The Bass Player review, with a better (lighted) picture of the Buckeye Burl top...

http://www.thelowend.net/gallery/viewtopic.php?t=151

Wilfred
palembic
Senior Member
Username: palembic

Post Number: 1941
Registered: 9-2002
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 1:17 pm:   Edit Post

Boroede Wilfred,

ik peins da je de hoofdvogel hebt afgeschoten!!!!!!
Again a reason to hop to ourt Northern neighbours.
What - a - bass ....

Paul the bad one
rami
Senior Member
Username: rami

Post Number: 456
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 4:03 pm:   Edit Post

That's quite a score Wilfred!

I remember reading the article on it. I have the issue (It's got Stanley on the cover).
That Bass got great reviews.
How did you acquire it???

It's a real beauty. Congrats.

Rami
jet_powers
Advanced Member
Username: jet_powers

Post Number: 212
Registered: 2-2003
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 6:53 pm:   Edit Post

Yes indeed!! What everyone else said....

How did you come to acquire it?

JP
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 442
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 5:39 am:   Edit Post

Thanks for the positive comments guys!

Well, I'm afraid there aren't cool Wildwest stories to tell about how I aquired it. I was seriously interested in buying a used Benavente SingleCut. I fell in love with the model as soon as I saw the pictures and read the review in March 2003, so before I had switched from guitar to bass and before I became an Alembician! With an increasing G.A.S.-budget (it is possible!) to back me up I checked the distributor's website http://www.thelowend.net on a daily basis. When this one actually came up for sale, I didn't have any doubt that this was destined to be and I made my move. That's it really...

If you read the Bass Player review (link in previous post) there were two points of criticism in a sea (sticking with the whale theme there) of praise: the love-it-or-leave-it looks (needless to say I love it, but I can see that it isn't up to everybody's taste) and the Demeter preamp lacking a passive mode.

Before this bass was shipped to me (underway as we speak, maybe just maybe Friday, probably next week) luthier Chris Benavente gave it a fret level and installed a new (superior) Benavente preamp with a passive option. I really love that, and just like the maple fingerboard it isn't an option with Alembic (to my best of knowledge) so I don't have to be very ashamed of being adulterous, do I?

Wilfred
rami
Senior Member
Username: rami

Post Number: 457
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 6:31 am:   Edit Post

Hey Wilfred,

You should know by now that Alembic WILL make you anything - whether listed as an option or not. That's what featured customs are for.

Anyway, I love your new bass! I'm most intrigued by it's construction. It seems to combine elements of neck-through with set-neck design. That is, a neck-through which rests in a pocket or groove through the body. Ingenious!
At least we don't have to ask you how it sounds. The reviewers loved it.

Best regards,

Rami
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 443
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 7:08 am:   Edit Post

I'll post detailed pictures a.s.a.p.

I can remember a few topics in which Mica and/or Val made clear that Alembic doesn't offer maple fingerboards because they tend to discolour and get a 'dirty' look with age. And although I'm not an electronics expert, I was under the impression that with the specific way Alembic electronics are designed and work, a passive option just isn't possible technically. I can't remember to have ever seen an Alembic bass with the option to go passive, but please correct me if I'm wrong...

But no stepping on any toes intended. Just an attempt to apologise for purchasing a non-Alembic bass, which isn't necessary at all in such a respectful and friendly environment as this club. Very happy with this new bass, and still very happy with my Alembics, which makes it 'three of a perfect pair' for me...

Wilfred
pookeymp
Advanced Member
Username: pookeymp

Post Number: 216
Registered: 7-2002
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 8:14 am:   Edit Post

Hey Wilfred,

She's absolutely beautiful! I love Chris Benavente designs. I'm quite sure the sound is awesome as well. Please do post more pics once she comes in.

Mikey/

P.S. No need to apologize for posting a non-Alembic. Many here (myself included) will continue to buy Alembics and will also buy from other manufacturers, as well (I like diversity). And, once you get, or are in the process of getting any instrument, one can't help but be proud and to show it to your friends here...so bring em on!! :-)
lbpesq
Advanced Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 344
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 9:31 am:   Edit Post

WOW! I never saw a 5-string sperm whale before. "Moby" is a very appropriate name and obviously better than "Dick" - as in "I love to play with my ...." - (you know where I'm going - LOL)

Bill, tgo
hydrargyrum
Member
Username: hydrargyrum

Post Number: 81
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 2:39 pm:   Edit Post

Reminds me of this Ken Bebensee bass. I wonder which came first . . .

Bebensee Bass
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 445
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Thursday, March 03, 2005 - 4:49 am:   Edit Post

Well, I think it's safe (and fair) to assume that Fodera was the first to design the SingleCut body shape with the imput of Anthony Jackson. Exactly why mr. Jackson was not amused when the BP review 'forgot' to mention that. Nowadays the SC-shape has become quite sought after and several luthiers/builders have started to make their own variation. When you take a close look, there's always just as many differences as there are similarities...

Wilfred
hydrargyrum
Member
Username: hydrargyrum

Post Number: 82
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Thursday, March 03, 2005 - 6:10 am:   Edit Post

Interesting, I had never heard about that story. I find it fascinating that nearly all of the really great luthiers seem to primarily build bass guitars. I wonder if it is just an offshoot of the fear guitarists seem to show for any innovation in instrument building. I really think I could go the rest of my life without seeing another Fender strat or strat copy (no offense to the strat fans out there).
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 446
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Thursday, March 03, 2005 - 6:50 am:   Edit Post

No offence to the guitar players around here or out there, but most of them will admit that (in general) the bass playing community is less 'conservative' than the brotherhood of guitar.

Innovation, progression, creativity, cutting edge design, 5,6,7,8,9,10,11 or even more strings, highly developed electronics, endless possibilities in the use of wood aka 'hippie sandwiches'... all almost exclusively found on the banks of the deep end.

Alembic has played a major role in this, I'm sure most luthiers were in one way or another inspired by Alembic.

Wilfred
bassdr
Junior
Username: bassdr

Post Number: 11
Registered: 10-2004
Posted on Friday, March 04, 2005 - 3:11 pm:   Edit Post

Wilfred- I'm glad you liked my comments- I hadn't considered a bass with that body shape before, I like it alot. Consider a modified Essence with a version of the singlecut body shape-hmm. I can dream for now. The band "Greybeard" will have to gig alot more for better money before I can do that. Thank God I already have a great Alembic to play. Michael
1stbass
Member
Username: 1stbass

Post Number: 94
Registered: 11-2002
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 3:31 am:   Edit Post

Wilfred,

That is a great bass. I have been looking at these single cuts for a while now ( the Ken Lawrence ) and i have to say yours is amazing.
How doese it feel straped on?
That is a real jewel for your collection.
play it in good health.
Doug
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 448
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 4:02 am:   Edit Post

Hi Doug, thanks for the nice words & to answer your question: I don't know yet :-(

Somewhere next week 'Moby' will be in my hands, I intend to play her 'till my fingers bleed (well, almost) and I will post my experiences here. According to the BP review the bass balances perfectly because of this body shape and with the relatively low weight of 9 lbs. it should be very comfortable to play...

Wilfred
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 449
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 06, 2005 - 1:30 pm:   Edit Post

The lighting - and therefore the colour - is more natural in this very early picture...



Wilfred
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 451
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Friday, March 11, 2005 - 5:16 am:   Edit Post

Moby's here, absolutely wonderful bass, everything I expected and hoped for, and then some. Already competing with my beloved Orion for the #1 position, but I hope they'll realise very soon that I'll love, need and keep them both. My beautiful EVH might become the unfortunate victim of my newfound realism aka 'three-is-a-crowd' principle, but I'm not entirely sure yet. If so, I'll be offering the EVH for sale (on consignment) via Edwin's store and will certainly let you know in the 'Swap shop/wish list' section of the Club...

Wilfred

(Message edited by the_mule on March 11, 2005)
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 455
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 6:57 am:   Edit Post

Today I've installed TI Jazz flatwounds, and just like I was hoping they give Moby a truly spectacular voice. For those of you've seen the movie 'Finding Nemo', this beast is sssssspeeeeeeaaaaakiiiiiiing whhhhhaaaaaaleeeee now!

As I said before, this bass couldn't be more different when compared to my Orion. I feel very privileged to own a perfect pair of wonderful sounding and beautifully crafted instruments. I really wanted to share the first pictures I made myself...

Wilfred







adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 515
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 7:31 am:   Edit Post

Hey Wilfred,

Impressive piece of work - congrats!

As we live in the same part of the country, I was wondering if you got the TI Jazz Flats in a local shop, and if so - where?

Thanks!
Adriaan
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 456
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 7:55 am:   Edit Post

Hoi Adriaan, I got the TI Jazz flatwounds from Paul Sips (Paul's BassMatters - Nijmegen) as a gift when I picked up the bass. For safety reasons (insurance, warranty) I ordered the bass via his shop. Because of Moby mr. Sips is actually considering a Benavente dealership as the only European dealer is situated in Madrid...

Wilfred
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 516
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 8:36 am:   Edit Post

I'll check with Paul if he stocks them, but they're not listed on his site. Rockpalace will order them for me, but it takes 2 or 3 months before they arrive ...
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 457
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 8:51 am:   Edit Post

When I was in Nijmegen last Wednesday Paul had several packages of TI strings in stock (4 or 5, flats and rounds). So I'm almost sure he does stock them. Great strings BTW...

Wilfred
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 517
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2005 - 8:59 am:   Edit Post

Thanks, so next time I won't have to order months in advance of the string change. Good news!
1stbass
Member
Username: 1stbass

Post Number: 98
Registered: 11-2002
Posted on Monday, March 14, 2005 - 5:26 am:   Edit Post

Wilfred,
Thanks for posting images of "MOBY".
It is wounderful, a true jewel.
So how does it feel straped on?
Best of luck with it.

Doug
the_mule
Senior Member
Username: the_mule

Post Number: 458
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Monday, March 14, 2005 - 5:54 am:   Edit Post

Thanks Doug, it balances perfectly when strapped on. With a weight of 9 lbs. it's relatively light, at least much ligher than it looks and it feels about the same as my Orion. This weekend I've had the chance to play both intensively, and I enjoyed it very much. They both are truly great basses with entirely different voices. I have said this before, but I truly feel privileged. Now I'm sure the EVH will have to go, I really can't justify owning any other basses besides Moby and the Orion...

Wilfred

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