Rory's Coco Bolo Balance K Log Out | Topics | Search
Moderators | Register | Edit Profile

Alembic Club » Factory to Customer » Rory's Coco Bolo Balance K « Previous Next »

  Thread Last Poster Posts Pages Last Post
Archive through November 06, 2004rklisme30 11-06-04  6:55 am
Archive through February 26, 2005serialnumber1230 2-26-05  5:40 am
  ClosedClosed: New threads not accepted on this page        

Author Message
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 21
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Saturday, February 26, 2005 - 11:23 am:   Edit Post

If I remember correctly, it's Anniversary electronics, plus the 5-pin connector with power only (for powering LEDs), and bass/treble for each pickup.

No center humcanceller is a dead giveaway.

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 170
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Saturday, February 26, 2005 - 2:03 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Guys

Thanks for the verrrrry cool compliments. James you can borrow it anytime just leave me one of your series basses to play on. Byoung has hit my electronics right on the nose except for my treble and bass switches will be four position rotary instead of three position toggle. I will be going to Graceland on Wednesday so I can get my last project tweaked and spy on my latest baby. I will bring my camera for more pics.

Rory
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 22
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Saturday, February 26, 2005 - 4:03 pm:   Edit Post

Rory,

You've piqued my interest:

a 3-position switch creates -8/0/+8dB cut/boost.

What does a 4-position rotary switch do (I assume it is a switch, and not a potentiometer)?

Brad
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 1435
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Sunday, February 27, 2005 - 5:53 am:   Edit Post

Brad; the three position switch is normally 6-0-6. And it's not an entirely dead giveaway in that, if one wanted, the hum canceller can be hidden within the body.
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 23
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Sunday, February 27, 2005 - 8:53 am:   Edit Post

Dave,

You got me! I happened to know that it isn't series electronics (since my bass is going to be very similar to Rory's, I asked Valentino lots of questions while I was at the factory).

I'm still wondering what a 4 position switch will do.

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 171
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Sunday, February 27, 2005 - 4:49 pm:   Edit Post

Brad

Ron is still working out the details so I am not sure of the specs but it will give me more range in my cut and boost area. I will let you guys know more when I do.

Rory
bsee
Senior Member
Username: bsee

Post Number: 785
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Sunday, February 27, 2005 - 7:34 pm:   Edit Post

I would think so, but why not just put in the variable pots like on an East-Meets-West setup? Was there a meaningful cost difference, an issue with fitting the pots into the cavity, or did you see some advantage to having the precise repeatable settings?
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 172
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Monday, February 28, 2005 - 6:23 am:   Edit Post

Bob

It is very convienent to be able to switch a button on the fly and get close to what I am looking for in a live situation. Saves time and tweaking. For me the pre-sets work fine and maybe that is because I have been using them for twelve years or so. A few nights ago I was playing in a nice size venue where people were sitting while we were playing jazz, after dinner we started with dance music and the dynamics changed for the room since people where now right in front of you. I just clicked a switch here and there and I was back in the mix.

Rory
serialnumber12
Intermediate Member
Username: serialnumber12

Post Number: 136
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Monday, February 28, 2005 - 6:52 am:   Edit Post

Hey rory, hows-bout some gig shots of that "six string monster" when able?
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 24
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Monday, February 28, 2005 - 2:46 pm:   Edit Post

Amen.

My new bass is going to look similar, so I want action shots! And, of course, the hook-up on the electronics configuration.

=)

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 173
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Monday, February 28, 2005 - 8:22 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Guys

I am still waiting to receive the 6 string but I still have two other 4 strings that I use plus a few Ken Smiths for backup. I don't play out as much anymore but I do still take an occasional gig and I have signed on with a local singer songwriter who will be promoting his solo cd so more opportunites for me to get my mug shot taken while playing. Hey Brad I don't see a thread for you bass yet have I overlooked it?
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 25
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 01, 2005 - 8:40 am:   Edit Post

Rory,

We're still finalizing the details. Hopefully, there'll be something here shortly.

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 174
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 02, 2005 - 7:33 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Guys

I had a nice trip to Santa Rosa today and got to see my six string, all I can say is wow, wow, wow!
It was good to see Susan, Mica, Val, Ron, Mary and the rest of the crew. What a great place to hang out if you love Alembics. I had to get my quilted maple 4 string tweaked and they did it while I waited which was very cool since I had planned on leaving it and picking it up another time. I didn't take a lot of photo's this trip but maybe next time. If you think the beveled peg head is cool in a photo you need to see it in person, oh my god!
alembic trip 1
alembic trip2
alembic trip3

Rory
foth
New
Username: foth

Post Number: 10
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Thursday, March 03, 2005 - 2:57 pm:   Edit Post

Great pictures Rory! Nice to see the "faces behind the basses". Looks like James has got some left hand upside down thump action goin' on!
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 28
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Friday, March 04, 2005 - 12:29 pm:   Edit Post

Rory,

What's the scale length on that bad mama jama?

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 176
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Friday, March 04, 2005 - 11:29 pm:   Edit Post

Brad

It is 34 and it feels like it weighs a ton but it is da bomb! I can't wait until it is complete.

Rory
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 30
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 12:12 pm:   Edit Post

Rory,

I've been 3 months finalizing details on my new bass. Seeing you holding that wicked piece of art has finally tweaked something in me, and I'm feeling like I can't wait now. I know my new bass is going to be Amazing (and that's a pun, as you'll hopefully be seeing shortly).

I know you're absolutely going to love your new bass. You'll have to give us an "after-action" report. Is she going home soon?

Brad
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 177
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 3:28 pm:   Edit Post

Brad

Because of the electronics set-up I imagaine it will be quite sometime yet before my new bass shows up here but it is all good, I've waited 48 years whats a few more months for a beautiful instrument like this. This is the stuff dreams are made of! I can't wait to see what you have come up with for your new bass. Do you mind sharing the details or do you just want to drop it on us when you are ready to get it started?

Rory
byoung
Junior
Username: byoung

Post Number: 31
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 4:49 pm:   Edit Post

Rory,

I've never been too good at keeping secrets.

My bass is basically going to be like yours, but the top lamination will be bookmatched to center. Also, I'm getting a carved headstock, but with an omega (combine your headstock with Gary's carved omega (balance K)).

It will have three ebony laminations, two purpleheart and six maple in the neck.

I'm hoping to have a custom inlay, details'll be forthcoming. It'll be an amazingly graceful design.

I'll be fascinated to hear what the final deal is with your electronics. I'm thinking about adding bass/treble pots where you have the 4-position rotary switches.

We should just go ahead and call mine a Rory tribute, I think. =)

Brad
dannobasso
Advanced Member
Username: dannobasso

Post Number: 220
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 7:25 pm:   Edit Post

Congrats on a beautiful and stunning instrument. The proportions are elegant and perfect. The Omega cut is outstanding. Play it in great health and inspiration.
Danno
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 179
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 05, 2005 - 11:02 pm:   Edit Post

Danno

Thanks for the compliment I figure if I keep ordering new basses I will catch up with you in about 10 years.

Rory
dannobasso
Advanced Member
Username: dannobasso

Post Number: 224
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Monday, March 07, 2005 - 7:09 pm:   Edit Post

No wife, No kids, No pets. The secret of my success. Now if enough people buy my album, I'll get one with Series electronics!
Again Rory, fantastic choice, a true blessing.
Danno
serialnumber12
Intermediate Member
Username: serialnumber12

Post Number: 150
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 08, 2005 - 7:46 am:   Edit Post

"HOLY &%#@!!!!"
rklisme
Intermediate Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 186
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2005 - 10:14 am:   Edit Post

Hey Danno

I just picked up a Series I bass and all I can say is Holy Crap! If you get the opportunity do it! I have been in touch with the good people at Alembic and want to get it refinished but overall it is in excellent shape I just prefer a new look versus the Ole Yeller! I will post pics shortly.

Rory
dannobasso
Advanced Member
Username: dannobasso

Post Number: 232
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2005 - 5:21 pm:   Edit Post

You are many times blessed! I will wait patiently for my time like a monk. Nobody can stop at just one!
Danno
southpaw
Junior
Username: southpaw

Post Number: 24
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 30, 2005 - 8:45 am:   Edit Post

No wonder Alembic makes great lefty Basses, when there are people like James taking care of us behind the scenes, how can we go wrong. The final set up is done properly, not upside down, Thank James from all the backwards guys & gals! Feel free to "accidentally" build a Spyder or D.W. backwards then call me, I'll take it off your hands reasonably...
rklisme
Advanced Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 247
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Monday, October 17, 2005 - 5:46 pm:   Edit Post

Val or Mica

It has been a while since I have contacted Alembic concerning my 6 string bass. Is there any progress to report? I am in no rush but I am starting to rebound financially so I am bringing her home where she belongs. Please let me know if Ron has worked any magic yet.

Rory
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 2686
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Monday, October 17, 2005 - 6:53 pm:   Edit Post

Yes indeed - I just spoke to dad this very afternoon about your bass - must have made your fingers itch.

When I asked about your custom rotary bass and treble switches, dad told me that he and Tony are working together so well now that Tony can build most guitar/bass electronics that dad designs. That's good news for patient folks like you!

I'm glad to hear you're on the rebound, and I hope that also includes your health.
rklisme
Advanced Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 248
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Tuesday, October 18, 2005 - 3:34 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Mica

Thanks for getting back to me so soon concerning the bass. My health is good and I am back on track. I hope you and your family are all doing well and I may plan a trip up there shortly to get some work done on the Essence.

Rory
valvil
Moderator
Username: valvil

Post Number: 771
Registered: 7-2002
Posted on Thursday, October 20, 2005 - 1:16 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Rory,

your buddies Henry and Tim came around last week, we had a nice time, finally saw Henry's bass which I think is the one you told me you were trying to get for the longest time; it'a gorgeous piece that has aged beautifully; Henry took good care of it.

Looking forward to your visit.

Valentino
rklisme
Advanced Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 251
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Sunday, October 23, 2005 - 4:21 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Val

I would like to come out Thursday if that works into your schedule. I just arrived back home again from Mississippi where I loss my Step dad to brain cancer. It is amazing the damage that still exist in that area it is bittersweet being home again.

Rory
valvil
Moderator
Username: valvil

Post Number: 775
Registered: 7-2002
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2005 - 12:48 pm:   Edit Post

Tomorrow is ok Rory, anytime between 11.30 and 4pm.

Valentino
rklisme
Advanced Member
Username: rklisme

Post Number: 311
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006 - 9:19 pm:   Edit Post

Hey Guys

I spent the afternoon with Mica today just chatting. We covered a lot of subjects while having coffee and Alembics.
I played a few interesting basses today some which were quite unique.
I did not take photo's this trip but I did see almost everyones instrument.
The reason for my journey was to pick up my 6 string Coco bolo Balance K. I can only tell you it is a tone monster. Ron, really did his homework to make it work.
I am not sure I will be keeping her though as most of you know I am a Series person now. If any one is interested in making me a offer on a brand new 6 string bass please contact me. Please no low ball offers on this beauty! I will take more photo's later.

Rory

basses
basses
basses

Add Your Message Here
Post:
Username: Posting Information:
This is a private posting area. Only registered users and moderators may post messages here.
Password:
Options: Enable HTML code in message
Automatically activate URLs in message
Action:

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