I might just get the Epic, and purchase the q-filter (thanks for the info on that, by the way), and see which I like more. I imagine it would keep most of it's value if I turned it over to the TBers of the world, if I decide I hate it.
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Did Alembic discontinue the Epic body style?
- Thread starter calmb4tehpwn
- Start date
Don't let those prices of $1799 and higher fool you. I don't think too many move at those prices. 3 years ago I walked into a music store in western Ma. and found a beat up Epic for $675. My wife smiled when she saw it, she has a great eye, wished me happy birthday, took out the plastic and we walked out with it. Not too many folks can say that they have a beater Alembic. Keep your eyes open and don't fear to make a lowball offer when they sit a long time at $1700...
I've been an Alembic owner for 8 years now. I've owned 8 over the years, and currently own four. They are:
Stanley Clarke Signature Standard
Epic
Essence
Custom Series II John Entwistle replica (see my avatar)
All are four string and fretted.
Alembic will make you whatever you want, but it is not cheap (trust me). I agree with others here who said to buy your first one used. That's what I did (an '83 Spoiler-Exploiter), and I'm glad I did that. It helped me realize that I liked the tonal possibilities at a relatively low cost before going up in their hierarchy of models. I've owned a Spyder Limited Edition, a Dragon's Wing, and a Europa in addition to the above as well.
Alembics are an acquired taste, and like any bass, not for everyone. The filters and Q-Switches require you to learn how to use them, as opposed to a traditional passive set up or the more modern pre/boost/cut you get with a lot of basses these days. It can create a love/hate relationship for some, but for me it works.
One thing to remember is that as others have noted, you can swap out the stock Epic electronics with a filter set up if you want. You may be able to do other things as well, but a phone call to Alembic would clear it up. Also, if you join the Alembic Club at the Alembic site, there are a lot of folks who can give you advice on Alembics, and suggestions for how you should proceed should you desire them.
Based on being an Epic owner, I can tell you that you can get a lot of useful tones out of it, but not as many as you can with a filter/switch setup. It all depends on the music you're making and the tone you're after, really. The Epic is built as well as any Alembic, which is to say perfectly in my experience. I've been to their factory and I've seen how they do the magic they do. Even if one doesn't particularly care for the Alembic "sound," I think we can all agree that they're extraordinarily built and crafted.
Pick one up used - they can be had for reasonable prices, and you'll get a bass with construction and attention to detail that is second to none.
If you have any questions about the Epic or Alembics in general, feel free to contact me via PM.
Alan
Pics of said "Beater Alembic" or it doesn't exist. I really wanna see this thing, lol.
No joke! I'd give a nut to pick up a 700 dollar beater epic. Seriously.
I'd be perfectly happy with a beater, just to get a feel for the sound, but I imagine it's a once in a lifetime get.
I've had my Epic for around 10 years now. Got it used for $900. Great bass. I had to learn how properly adjust it. It is not set and forget. I like the idea of having one without feeling silly having paid so much for one. You can get the classic Alembic sound with the stock electronics, but you can't get those crazy sounds that you can get with the filter(s)
I think they have discontinued it. I have an Epic 4 string and 5 string. I like the body style but like the Essence and Orion body styles a little better.
The set necks Alembics are not on the quote generator, you'd have to contact them for an estimate. (though that goes for all models, the generator is just a general guide)
If you want a neck through Epic, just start with an Essence in the quote generator. If you want a set neck, replace the base price (after string selection) with the price of an Epic ([Invalid or Expired Link Removed]) and I guess you'll come pretty close to what Mica/Susan will tell you.
The Signature models also have one for each pickup (MK/SC)
Here's some interesting info on the Alembic filters and Qs: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
If you want a neck through Epic, just start with an Essence in the quote generator. If you want a set neck, replace the base price (after string selection) with the price of an Epic ([Invalid or Expired Link Removed]) and I guess you'll come pretty close to what Mica/Susan will tell you.
Fun indeed, try that with 3 pickupsmark107 said:
The Signature models also have one for each pickup (MK/SC)
Here's some interesting info on the Alembic filters and Qs: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
Okay, so not discontinued, and either way, they'd be happy to make me anything I can dream up, to include a special epic (at a price)
There was a lot of terminology in that thread, but I think I followed enough of it to know that a Q filter could only be VERY fun.
I look forward to when I get a chance.
No Virginia Alembic owners?
There was a lot of terminology in that thread, but I think I followed enough of it to know that a Q filter could only be VERY fun.
I look forward to when I get a chance.
No Virginia Alembic owners?
![n1552309148_50466_5593[1].jpg](/data/attachments/2693/2693511-40e6557ac74096646e228dea60e8eb02.jpg?hash=QOZVesdAlm)
I have never liked maple tops, but it really looks good on those Epics, with the mahogany backing. It just works. Still, doesn't look like a beater from here. Show that baby off! Let's get some detail pics.
The back is badly scratched, I would guess from a belt buckle. The finish on the front is worn through in multiple places. But, the sound is great. Chrome flats and it becomes a P-Bass on steroids. It was not well cared for by whoever had it. The funny thing though is that it is a first year Epic, 1993. I have only found one that is older on the Alembic Club site.
+1 on seeing more detail pics.
Mine's got the walnut top, but if I had a choice, I'd get a maple topped one.
You ever feel like there might be a chance you'd part with this beater, you make sure you come to me first. I'd treat her as a prized possession, with the intent of letting her possess me (as our best possessions do).
I just wish my once in a lifetime opportunity would come sooner rather than later, but maybe that's a trial of patience.
I just wish my once in a lifetime opportunity would come sooner rather than later, but maybe that's a trial of patience.
Consider it a standing request, then. When ever you get a working camera, you got folks hoping for pictures!
