Alembic Guitars Club
Connecting => Miscellaneous => Topic started by: garyhead on April 08, 2025, 03:37:05 PM
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Didn't quite know where to put this thread so its here. I recall past discussions of this topic and even found theoretical threads in my search.
I'm setting up a Stereo rig for my Series 1. Currently an F-2B to the ELF Processor then to the Stewart Power amps. I have just purchased a second F-1X so I can do an A / B comparison of the preamps. The new component is the ELF M-1 processor set up for stereo. There is an SF-2 here too but I will leave it out at this time. There's lots of good info on the Alembic website regarding the characteristics of these preamps but I hope to actually "hear" the differences.
If any of you have experience A / B 'ing these pre's, you opinions would be most welcome. Thank's RV for the reasonably priced F-1X. This is my second purchase from a fellow club member and I hope to do more in the future.
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Here ya' go Gary... one of our Club Members [Picure] made a nice recorded comparison between the two units using his Series 1.5 bass.
https://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=25102.0 (https://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=25102.0)
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Thanks for the link Greg. I somehow knew you would have that in your noggin'. ;D It's a great place to start. But I think this test was done in mono, not stereo.Years ago I had to send in my F-2B to the mothership. Microphonic problems. I don't recall the details but Ron fixed it so I at least know my F-2B is factory spec. The 2nd F-X1 will be in the mail shortly and it looks like the serial # is close to my F-X1 in the rack. I'll pop both of these open to inspect the tubes to see if they match. I bought my F-X1, F-2B & SF2 used so unsure if stock.The F-2B has an additional unlabeled output.....I'm sending that signal to the tuner.
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I mostly remember it because that particular bass is just a couple numbers away from my other Series bass (and your doubleneck, for that matter... ) of course his is on the other side of the world from me. Mine is only on the other side of the continental U.S. 😄 If he sees your thread, Jack [Picure] may chime in here.
I'm interested in what your findings are... I have two F-1X units, and an F-2B, but I prefer to use the F-1X's separately in mono applications for live gigs. My F-2B lives in the living room rig, racked up with a DS-5R and SF-2. I've got it set up so I can enjoy my old Series I in true stereo, but can quickly switch it to mono for the non-Series basses.
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The stereo experiment is mainly for the Series 1 but the two Spyders can also run in Stereo. I’m a bit curious how the 8-string sounds. 8) ;D
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The stereo experiment is mainly for the Series 1 but the two Spyders can also run in Stereo. I’m a bit curious how the 8-string sounds. 8) ;D
well you should definitely try that out imho. i know a guy who made me some stereo TRS to 5-pin adaptors. you need something like the top one. 8)
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oops forgot the attachmnet
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Well, I have an original Rick-O-Sound breakout box for the Spyders.
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RV's F-1X arrived in bubble wrap yesterday. Was this gem ever used? It looks brand new! As soon as I find a power cord for it I'll rack it up.
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Gary, glad it arrived safely. Sorry about the power cord, I forgot to put it in the box. I will get that in the mail to you tomorrow. Thanks.
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Gary, I just sent it priority mail, you should receive it on Saturday. Thanks! Rob
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It's arriving TODAY (Friday) That's like overnighting it! Thanks.
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Rob doesn't mess around. 😎
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Rob doesn't mess around. 😎
+1 on that
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Yes. He’s gone up and above! I’m sure after 50 years of packratting gear, I have a spare power cord. However, when resurrecting my SF-2 last year….i couldn’t find the power supply. Luckily the FAQ section on the Alembic Club directed me to a generic supply from Amazon.