Alembic Help

[Triassic Ash]

Hello there,

I've recently decided to bite the proverbial bullet and order an Alembic bass. I'v decided on a signature electronics 34" scale 5 string bass. My question is in regards to body shape. I love the standard omega cut, however, I am aware of the balance and ergonomic issues of these bass. My question is to anyone who owns a 34" 5 string standard Alembic, how severe are the balance and reach issues for you?

P.S. Susan and Mica at Alembic have heavily suggested the Balance K body, and don't get me wrong it's a great body shape. I'm just not as into it as the standard, however, at the end of the day I am willing to sacrifice looks for playability if the difference is drastic enough.

Thanks Everyone

 

[malthumb]

Believe it or not, your answer lies in your question. If you want the original standard body shapes they’re there for the taking. If you are concerned about balance, the Balance K is your best choice and you can still get an omega (or my favorite, heart omega) cut. Your call. But if you don’t absolutely have to have the omega cut, maybe also look at Rogue and Europa bodies.

As for the reach issues, I’m nowhere near a tall guy (5’7”) and I have a 34” 5-string. I position the neck a little out in front of me and it normalizes the reach. I’m not reaching way out to the left but slightly left and a bit forward.

 

[bassclef112]

I have a 2000 Mark King Signature Std ordered new, and these cuts weren't readily available. I'm sure they could do it but who knew. I had tried a used 34" and I couldn't reach the nut. My bass is a 32" 4 string and judicious strap location makes it playable. It's perfect for Mark King, not so much for a Fender guy. Remember this is the Std un-modified shape.

Unless you go for the cuts and body mods I also suggest a more standard shape like a Rogue. I had one and it felt like a part of me.

 

[Triassic Ash]

Believe it or not, your answer lies in your question. If you want the original standard body shapes they’re there for the taking. If you are concerned about balance, the Balance K is your best choice and you can still get an omega (or my favorite, heart omega) cut. Your call. But if you don’t absolutely have to have the omega cut, maybe also look at Rogue and Europa bodies.

As for the reach issues, I’m nowhere near a tall guy (5’7”) and I have a 34” 5-string. I position the neck a little out in front of me and it normalizes the reach. I’m not reaching way out to the left but slightly left and a bit forward.

Thank you (Omega cut is a must). I'm 6'1" and have long arms and I wear my bass higher (up near my chest). Would you say that the Balanced K is a considerable ergonomic/comfort improvement? Sorry, I've just never played one, so I'm trying to leverage as much experience from veterans Alembic players as possible.
.

 

[Mark 63]

Could you go to the Mothership and try different models?

 

[rjmsteel]

My Series is a modified Rogue body which has perfect balance (offset body). I know it`s not the Standard body shape and cannot accommodate the Omega cut, however it is perfectly balanced. See Rich`s Series Sans Filters on the Factory to Customer page on the Alembic Club. FWIW, I also have a 1981 Distillate with severe neck dive making it quite uncomfortable to play (which I did for decades). The Modded upper horn (shorter than stock) balances perfect. Keeping mind these basses are Heavy! I`m 6.1" as well.

Rich

 

[JPMcGuire]

My series ii 5 bal k is perfect from a feel and balance standpoint. I personally highly prefer this more sleek look to the older Alembic cuts (personal preference of corse). I have tried just about every bass out there and this 5 is an all time fav for a modern type bass