Alembic Guitars Club

Alembic products => Owning an Alembic => Fun Stories => Topic started by: 5a_quilt_top on September 12, 2012, 01:04:08 PM

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: 5a_quilt_top on September 12, 2012, 01:04:08 PM

OK - it's been a little over a month since I received my Spyder.
 
After logging some playing time with it both seated and standing almost every day, I am surprised to discover that I have suddenly become used to its overall size and slightly unorthodox body shape. What was at first a little intimidating and uncomfortable (due to years of playing on more conventional body shapes) has now become comfortable.
 
I attribute much of this to an adjustment to my technique. Over the last two weeks, I have started to develop the typewriter tapping style with my right hand - striking the strings on the fretboard, roughly between the 18th and 22nd frets.
 
This technique has allowed me to retain a ringing, harmonic-laden tone while reducing the treble on both the bass and the amp. Reducing treble also reduces unwanted pops and other annoying finger noises, as well as amp hiss.
 
Rethinking my technique has also allowed me to reposition my right arm slightly so that it now rests comfortably on the upper edge of the bass - which improves my posture and makes the Spyder feel even more balanced when standing.
 
I realize that this technique is standard practice for many here, but finally accomplishing it has been a bit of a revelation for me as its successful execution has been a bit elusive prior to playing an Alembic.
 
Lessons learned:
 
Tone may start with the fingers and in the mind, but an equal and necessary component of the tone equation is a responsive, well-designed instrument that encourages players to explore different techniques by rewarding them with the expected results.
 
And - growth frequently occurs as a result of being nudged out of our comfort zones.

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: georgie_boy on September 13, 2012, 10:25:23 AM

I play like that on all my basses 95% of the time, unless I need a specific tone from further back towards the bridge
 
George

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: serialnumber12 on September 13, 2012, 03:17:32 PM

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/394/139298.jpg)

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: 5a_quilt_top on September 14, 2012, 11:45:32 AM

I never thought I'd want a tattoo...
 
But, after seeing THAT, I might have to make an exception!
 
What a way to get to post #1,000, BTW.

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: terryc on September 14, 2012, 12:56:32 PM

Have been thinking about getting the logo as ink myself but I have never got a round to it!

Title: Taming The Spyder
Post by: rraymond on September 14, 2012, 09:41:18 PM

Well then, here you go...
 
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/394/139382.jpg)
 
Enjoy!