Alembic Guitars Club
Alembic products => Factory to Customer => Topic started by: mica on January 20, 2014, 01:53:43 PM
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Some of these you've seen Rusty, others you haven't:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187194.jpg)
Test pattern for neck laminations
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187195.jpg)
Neck in presses. Love the drippy glue!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187196.jpg)
Starting the chopping process.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187197.jpg)
"Ears" going on the peghead.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187198.jpg)
Front and back veneers going on the peghead.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187199.jpg)
Getting the top and back laminates ready to start sanding and assembling to the rest of the body.
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Thank you Mica!!! I just got pinched, the dream is real!!! I'm SO EXCITED!!!! I look forward to watching this amazing process unfold!
Rusty
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Fantastic start Rusty, things are rolling and like you I will be watching this thread closely.
Jazzyvee
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It's fitting that you were the 2nd to post after me Jazzyvee, you have been with me every step of the way on this bass!
Rusty
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Congratulations Rusty,
I will be watching closely as well.
Wolf
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Thanks Wolf! Glad to have you along this wonderful journey with me!
Rusty
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Congrats on a beautiful start to what I'm sure will be a gorgeous tonal inspiration. Will your bass be BTC (sorry if it was covered on the Dreaming... thread)?
I love the neck recipe, it should sound dominant and commanding!
Mike
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Pretty! Love that neck combination.
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love the neck recipe and can't wait to see that quilt with some color sprayed on!!
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Very nice quilt!
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Mike, what is BTC? Credit goes to Will Gunn for the neck recipe. When I was looking through all the FTC threads getting ideas for my bass I came across one of Will's basses with this same neck. It reminded me of racing stripes on a hot rod! I like the extra wide Ebony laminate for bottom end & sustain & I love the added color contrast of the Vermillion.
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BTC = Bookmatch to Center, and yessiree, this bass has got one on the topper.
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Thanks Mica!
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Yes Mike, the front will be BTC with continuous wood truss cover to get the most out of this gorgeous slab of 5A Quilted Maple! You can read all my specs & see a Photoshopped rendition of what it will look like here - http://club.alembic.com/Images/393/178439.html?1390265111 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=679)
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Congratulations, Rusty. This will be fun to watch the build progress on a beautiful instrument. Nice looking wood selections.
Rob
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looking forward to watching progress on this Rusty
Graeme
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Thanks Rob & Graeme!
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I always enjoy reading your posts, Rusty - I'm excited for you!!
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Fantastic quilt top!
And, I can vouch for the ebony in the neck.
What a way to start!
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... and the bass goes BOOOM!
Mike
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These build shots are just so amazing. It's as if those wood planks already had your name on them back when they were just seeds starting to sprout in the ground...Premium materials, master craftsmanship and the unique Alembic alchemy all combine to make magical instruments that are unparalleled in the industry...if not the universe.
So happy for you, Rusty!
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Thanks everyone! This is going to be a fun year! Glad to have you all along for the ride!
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Congrats Rusty,
And, yes a single ebony stringer, with the neck recipe as you pointed out as credited to Will (Gunn), is both a visually stunning and a tone monster.
Just enough (extra:-)) bottom and sustain without it being too much!
Rusty,
My Custom Series is also patterned, (and inspired/ordered - with Will\s help), after Will\s neck recipe/thickness criteria for the wider ebony, thin Maple pinstripe and Standard (Purpleheart) or Vermillion in your case width of the stringers.
Rich
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Rich, we all have musical inspirations which we aspire to match one day in ability & creativeness in our playing. We may not ever be as good as our idols, but the wonderful thing about Alembic is that we can achieve our instrument inspirations with them building us exactly what we ask for! I'm not ashamed to admit that I've borrowed (stolen!) licks from the best & now I've been inspired by Steve Wood's Europa body & Will Gunn's neck to create what will be the ultimate bass for me!
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Thanks for the tip 'o the hat, Rusty, but I'd be remiss if I didn't admit that I too stole the very same neck formula from Ezra Ardolino's custom guitar - though I DID go with a wider center ebony laminate than was used on his instrument.....
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I was just about to mention that guitar Will!
You beat me to it:-)
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Will, I think the wider Ebony is what makes this neck recipe so awesome! Yours was the first Alembic I ever saw with a wider stripe in the middle & I love it! The fact that it will increase the bottom & sustain is icing on the cake, I just think it looks cool! Can you tell a noticeable difference with this neck recipe over your others?
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Hmm. Between Wayne's and Olie's and yours and my apparent fetish for ebony, I may need to get the foundation of the house reinforced before the next Texas Alembic gathering.
Can't wait to see this animal in real life!
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Yeah John, time to upgrade your homeowner's insurance! We need to have a sustain contest to see whose holds out the longest! I just hope mine is ready by this summer so it can attend the Gathering!
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Congratulations Rusty!
I will be watching this epic with much interest.
That neck recipe will in no doubt make it sound
bigger than Ben Hur.
That maple to me looks as if its melting in a Salvador Dali kind of way.
Oh you are so fortunate.
Enjoy the anticipation!
slawie
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Love the video; the depth is really striking.
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Thanks Dave!
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The video was great. It really does look 3-D, like blue satin under the light. Beautiful bass, Rusty! Congratulations!
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I made a HUGE mistake tonight, I set up both my amps & went STEREO! Oh My God!!! This Series II was MADE for stereo!!! It was like uncapping the headers!!! More about that tomorrow, I will shoot video......
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Stereo is indeed awesome. I recommend it, even if it's just for the front end.
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Just when I was happy with the sound I was getting from my Fender Rumble 350 with my SCSD, & glad to not be hauling my 4X10 & 1X15 Eden cabinets with my WT 800 Eden amp, now I have experienced the incredible sound of the Series II in stereo with the bridge pickup going to the Rumble & the neck going to the WT 800 & 4X10 box! The SII sounded good with the Rumble alone, but it is like it is way over compressed compared to the sound I get in Stereo. I commented to Mica that my Europa didn't have the highs that my SCSD has, but it does in stereo! It really comes alive! Currently I set my Rumble up tilted back & facing backwards like a monitor so it doesn't affect the FOH mix, but it is going to be really hard to not bring both amps & set them up in a traditional backline now that I have heard the difference in sound. I have a gig tomorrow night at one of our smaller venues & the stereo rig would be way overkill, so I will just bring the Rumble & see how the Europa sounds with the band, but if I can't get the sound I want I'm going to start bringing the stereo rig. I left the rig set up & will shoot some video tonight & post it so everyone can hear how incredible this bass sounds. I took another Family Photo with all my gear last night. The last time I took this picture I had 9 basses & guitars & that prompted my wife to say I needed one more to make it an even 10, & that got the ball rolling for building my Europa. So here is my 10.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/205258.jpg)
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Love those kind of mistakes.
Its good to hear the highs are available.It would be hard to fathom that blue beast doesn't have a little bite.
11 is a good number too ;),though I'd be happy with '1' if it was like your Europa !!
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Well, I tried 4 times to record video of me playing through my stereo setup but apparently the sound was too awesome for my camcorder to comprehend because it kept distorting. I put the camera in AGC & tried turning down to TV volume level & it still distorted. I was surprised because I video my band all the time & it never distorts. I'm going to video my gig tonight so maybe I can post some videos of the Europa with the band.
Elwood, I can't imagine ever improving over this Europa, so I think I'm going to stick with 10! If I was a fretless player I would consider getting a fretless Alembic, but the bass on the right in my picture is a fretless I built in woodshop in high school, so I have no need for another one. You can probably tell by the symmetrical shape & Mahogany laminates that it was inspired by the Stanley Alembic. It was originally a fretted Mighty Mite neck, but I always loved the sound of a fretless so when I got my Rickenbacker I had the frets pulled out & they filled in the slots so I can still see the fret lines for a cheater fretless. I would definitely consider getting some Activators for it!
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I played my first gig with my Europa Saturday night & it was AMAZING! The sound is much fuller than my SCSD & it plays like a dream! It is much easier on my fingers than my SCSD too, but I think that is because I found myself playing between the pickups VS right over the bridge pickup like I do on my SCSD. I had lots of comments on the look & sound. One guy told me it was the best sounding bass he had ever heard! I'm still getting used to the string spacing & playing a 5 on every song, & still tweaking the controls, but they are not nearly as complicated as I thought they would be & was able to get a sound I was VERY happy with! I videoed the whole night but haven't had a chance to watch it to see if it came out good enough to post. I will post some songs if it sounds good.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/205320.jpg)
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As it turns out, the video from my gig isn't any good. The house lights were stuck on red so the video is dark & the mix wasn't good. We have another gig at a much better venue on the 23rd so I will video that one & try to post some songs with the Europa. I got a great sound on stage with just using my Rumble combo amp, but I set it up at home last night & got an even better sound! I have found out that the Series II is much more sensitive to small changes in my settings than my SCSD is. I turned the frequency knob on the low channel of my SF-2 about 1/16 & it made a huge difference! I also switched it from Low Pass to Band Pass & that cleaned up my low end & gave it a tighter punchy sound. In Low Pass, there were some overtones that were drowning out some of the high notes. It still sounds better in stereo, but I'm extremely happy with the sound I got last night!
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Beautiful. I love the finish.
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It's been really hard to capture the exact color of this bass in pictures, but the ones my wife took at my gig Friday night are the True Blue of the bass. I also bought an Ampeg BA112 to run in stereo & I now have the sound I have been looking for! I run my neck & bridge pickup through the Fender Rumble 350 in mono & my bridge pickup through the Ampeg to enhance the mids & highs. The Ampeg is only 50 watts so it is not adequate to run full stereo & compete with the 350 watt Rumble, but thankfully Ron, in his infinite wisdom built the DS-5R where the treble jack is still hot even in mono mode.
On another note, I have worn red hi top Converse Chuck Taylor shoes at every gig since 1985, but to honor my new Europa I switched to blue ones!
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It's been really hard to capture the exact color of this bass in pictures, but the ones my wife took at my gig Friday night are the "True Blue" of the bass. I also bought an Ampeg BA112 to run in stereo & I now have the sound I have been looking for! I run my neck & bridge pickup through the Fender Rumble 350 in mono & my bridge pickup through the Ampeg to enhance the mids & highs. The Ampeg is only 50 watts so it is not adequate to run full stereo & compete with the 350 watt Rumble, but thankfully Ron, in his infinite wisdom built the DS-5R where the treble jack is still hot even in mono mode. On another note, I have worn red hi top Converse "Chuck Taylor" shoes at every gig since 1985, but to honor my new Europa I switched to blue ones!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/206208.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/206209.jpg)
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When I was trying out bi-amping at home I i connected a low volume Roland JC120 on the bridge pickup from the high pass output of my F1-x and that was superbly crispy on the top without being harsh. Easy to do at home but probably a headache to organise and transport and set-up so much gear on a gig.
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I bet the JC120 sounded sweet with the chorus effect! The little Ampeg I bought is small & light, so it's not too much more to carry to the gigs. It really adds to the clarity & fullness of the sound.
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Hey man - way to play th' Blues!
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Yeah, I could stand in front of a blue screen & be invisible!
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Rusty,
This may be unconventional but with my Series Bass, (Richs Series Sans Filters), I send the outputs of my DS-5R to my SF-2 and then to my small format Mackie mixer (802-vlz-3). The EQ is set completely flat, (I wish it had a defeat switch), and pan the Main Outs to my two amplifier Heads.
This way I can pan (1) pickup hard left and the other hard right... or what I usually do is pan both channels 1 & 2 almost dead center and let my volume controls on the bass dictate the strong panned channel to the respective amp.
The whole thing is wired up in a rack with one head mounted and the other head sitting on top of the rack so I can take it home. (Let me know and I\ll try and take a picture of the rig).
Sounds great and I have full control of the cabinets from each respective channel on the SF-2, each respective amplifier driving the paired or single cabinet (and respective pickup) all the while keeping the system as close to Full Range without the Bi-Amp headaches of speaker cabinet issues when combining 2 to 4 cabinets full of speakers.
Love your SII!!!!
Rich
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Hey Rich, your rig sounds impressive! I would love to see pictures of it! I have been thinking about running one channel of my SF-2 to one amp & the other channel to the other amp similar to what you are doing, but I was planning on patching the SF-2 through the effects loop which is how I have it now. My line out on my amp is pre-EQ so using the effects loop allows me to color the sound I hear on stage without effecting the signal I send to the PA. You don't have any problems with the SF-2 overdriving the mixer or amps going into it first?
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Rusty~
No issues with overdrive from the SF-2. Remember I am not using the SF-2 as a preamp (in this situation). I patch directly out of the back of the DS-5R, Bass output to channel 1 and treble (bridge) output to channel 2 all on the rear panel of the SF-2.
From the rear panel outputs of the SF-2 I patch directly into the Mackie, then of course Main Outs to the amps.... and yes I have had issues with the mixer, (I cannot remember all of them right now), adding coloration; but have rectified all that now where it is completely silent. I can even mute each channel by the fader!
In my (8) space Rack ~ (I swear its not that heavy ~the Eden head is the worst part) ~ I placed the (small format) Mixer in a Rack Drawer and doubled up velcro on the back side of the mixer - to the velcro added to the shelf of the drawer, velcro\d the power supply down, made patch cabling to reach all the inputs/outputs to where or when the drawer is open or closed, and patch cable to a 1/4 Patch Bay on the Racks Front to any of the amplifiers (or effects back to mixer if I choose)... works like charm.
So Rack top to bottom is the 2 Space Rack Drawer (with Mackie), The Patch Bay (1 space), Furman Rack Power, SF-2, DS-5R, Eden WT-550. All wiring is at the rear of the rack with the exception of the outputs of the Mixer Mains to the Patch Bay to the heads. The other Head sits on top of the rack and is also fed from the Patch bay.
By the way even with all the patch cabling it is still quiet except for any over eq\ing at the heads.
Here is another thing, (you may already know), but while talking to Will (Gunn) after getting frustrated he enlightened knowledge to me on the best way to setup the SF-2 - Volume wise. Here goes... The filters Gain on each channel is at Unity Gain at 1:00 O\clock. The Direct Gains can be addressed in a similar fashion where you could have them open all the way but its better to begin throttling back. This is your Starting point. Keep in mind my Series bass is Sans Filters so you may encounter more gain from your bass. Below is my response back to confirm I understood what Will explained to me,
Will,
Here is what I got out of our conversation and what I will try on my SF-2/Rig setup.
SF-2/Series Bass Settings:
Think Subtractive!
Both Pickups set full up (wide open).
Input Gain/ Direct Gain Channel A:
Set @ Full up subtract to remove highs when trying to play with a mellower tone;
(remember Gains are NOT (amplified) volume additive, but instead are Tone additive!
Direct Gain Channel B:
Same as above
Filter Gain Channel A:
Set Frequency Gains at 1:00 (pm). This is Unity Gain on the unit. Do this on both channels Filter Gain controls.
Filter Gain Channel B: as above.
Remember to think Subtractive instead of boosting (Bass or Treble Frequencies, etc.)
Enough rambling now,
Rich
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I run my Direct gain full open & tend to run the filter gain between 11 & 1:00. I had an issue with the SF-2 distorting when I first got it, but I may have had it hooked up wrong. I haven't had that problem lately. I did not know that 1:00 was unity gain on the Filter Gain, so thanks for that info!
I have a WT-800, what EQ settings are you using on your 550?
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Have I told you how much I LOVE this bass??? I have loved every Alembic I have ever played, but there is something different about having a custom build. Selecting all the ingredients that went into building this bass makes it feel like it has my DNA, like it is my own offspring. When I pick it up I instantly become one with it. It fits my hands so perfectly it feels like an extension of me rather than a tool in my hands. For a while I questioned myself on whether it was worth spending this kind of money on a bass, but after spending some time with it, you really can't put a price on what I feel when I play it! Every Alembic is a work of art, but this one is truly special!
To Quote Ferris Bueller - It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up. :-)
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Amen Rusty. There's volumes to be said for having EXACTLY the bass of your wildest imagination.
Beyond Custom... indeed.
*edit - ...and Ferris Bueller is still my hero! =) (well, one of them anyway)
(Message edited by edwardofhuncote on February 24, 2015)
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Gregory, when you deal with Alembic, sometimes you get something way beyond your wildest imagination! You start bouncing ideas off of Susan & Mica & they can come up with stuff you never even dreamed of! Ron is the Wizard of electronics, but Susan & Mica are Wizards in their own right when it comes to design & construction. They can take your ideas & your likes & dislikes & transform them into an instrument that will blow your mind! They have a gift for knowing what ingredients work that will materialize your dream.
We should all be as cool as Ferris, but then again, he didn't have an Alembic & I will take that over cool any day!
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Thanks Slawie! I can't wait to see the Maple with finish on it! To quote Mica in the email she sent me with the pictures of the wood, ...with finish they are going to be crazy amazing!
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The vermillion neck laminates are standout. It's a nice switch from purpleheart and will look really cool against the blue sunburst finish. I will be watching this build with great anticipation!
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I agree Jerry! I love the orange & black combination!
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More stuff happening... Gathering up the body woods:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187675.jpg)
Getting ready to glue the back to the body core pack (core with accents in place):
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187676.jpg)
Rough neck shaping:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187677.jpg)
Making the neck flush with the body:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187678.jpg)
Uses some very cute hand planes First steps in backplate construction:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/187679.jpg)
Next week the top should go on. More pictures then!
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Great pics!! It's amazing how it all comes together.
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WOO HOO!!! It's starting to look like a bass!! I'm seeing some Alembic Snow for this Christmas! Thanks Mica! You just made my weekend!!
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Lordy lu, that is going to be a drop-dead beauty!
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Love it! That headstock is smashing!!!
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Well this one certainly is taking shape Rusty, you can already see how dramatic the maple quilt is so imagine what it will be like when it is sprayed.
Jazzyvee
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Thanks guys! Art, I have always loved the Knobby headstock! I never thought I would have the chance to own one myself, but now I will! Jazzyvee, I will be visiting the factory next month so I hope they have some finish on it by then & I can see the quilting in person!
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Mica, if you haven't already disposed of it, I would love to have a slice of the neck recipe from the excess you cut off. I can pick it up when I come out next month.
Rusty
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I'm suffering from photo withdrawal! Got any new ones Mica??
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Your bass is really zipping along nicely! The knobby headstock is a beautiful touch.
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Thanks Keith! I love the Knobby!
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Love it Rusty!
G
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Friday is sometimes picture day around here! Top with the recess for the truss rod cover:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188174.jpg)
Whole show with everything but the top and fingerboard:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188175.jpg)
Before the top can go on, the hollow core access needs to be reestablished:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188176.jpg)
Chisel details on the top before it's glued on:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188177.jpg)
No pictures of the top getting glued on, it's really not a photogenic process. Fingerboard is gluing now:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188178.jpg)
It's looking so bassy now
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Thank You Mica!!! Every Friday may not be picture day (as much as I would love it to be!!) but when you do post it is OH SO worth the wait!! The neck looks so thin & sexy!! If I didn't know it was a 5 I would think this was 4 string neck. I can't wait to wrap my fingers around it!!!
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Only a couple of pictures today, but they are good ones. Now it's even bassier...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188490.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188491.jpg)
Miles to go of course, but you can see the whole idea at once now.
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WOW!!! That looks awesome!! You can really see the figuring in the Quilted Maple, it's going to look incredible with finish on it! The neck dimensions look like they are going to be perfect! My biggest fear when I commissioned this build was that it would replace my SCSD & I would only want to play the Europa, those fears are growing with each new picture!! Keep 'Em coming though!
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It already looks impressive. Keep that fear as the SCSD will be at risk. Think of it like this analogy. You have a custom Rolls Royce and a Bentley continental GT. both will give you a fantastic drive but with different characteristics. Some times you will drive the roller every day and think this is the best car in the world nothing could ever be better. Then one day you decide to take out the Bentley and even though it is not as highly specified on paper there is something about it thal you just can't get from the roller so you then drive that for a few days then think this is a fantastic car why on earth did I need to buy that Rolls Royce. So you then feel guilty for thinking that , get back in the roller and straight away you realise why you bought it. I go through this scenario with my basses all the time. The SCSD doesn't get gigged much or even played as much these days but that is mainly because most gigs I play have songs in the set that need a 5 stringer and as I prefer not to carry more than one bass to a gig the SCSD gets left at home unless it's a Stanley Clarke track. When I play it I enjoy it immensely and
am so glad I have it.
If you don't have an impending financial reason to sell it then my advice would be to keep both basses then look for just one more. :-)
Jazzyvee
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Thanks for the advice & comforting words Jazzyvee! There is no danger of me selling my Coco (SDSC)! I love that bass & how easy she is to play with the short scale! I think that I will always feel more comfortable on a 4 string, but like you say, there is something to be said for variety! Even now I will sometimes finish the set on my Schecter 5 string rather than change back to my SCSD. Even though the remaining songs don't need the low B, it's a nice change to play them on the 5 sometimes.
Rusty
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You probably weren't expecting pictures before your visit, but like I told you on the phone today, we were gonna bust through the backplates so we can tackle the control layout next week.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/188756.jpg)
OK, so it's only one picture. Next week, final carve and a sealer coat.
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You're right Mica, I wasn't expecting pictures, so thanks for the nice surprise!! I can't wait to see it in person next week!!
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Looking Good Rusty! Have fun on the visit!
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Yeah enjoy your trip and of course let's see some pictures of what's going on there.
Jazzyvee
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In 24 hours I get to see my bass in person! Yes, there will be many pictures to post! I can't wait!!
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That's great, but IMO, there's waaay too much awesome-ness going on here to be captured by a humble camera...
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I agree David! Pictures NEVER do Alembic's justice even in the construction phase! I will have my video camera also to capture the streaming awesomeness! LOL!
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I got to see my Europa today! Words can't describe how AMAZING it looks even at this stage, & pictures don't begin to do it justice, but here's a few anyways! Mica had them finish carving the neck & body & put a sealer coat on it so I could see the figuring in the wood & even with just one coat of sealer that wasn't sanded or glossy, the 3D quilting was incredible! I can't wait to see this with the final high gloss finish! Thank you Mica, Susan, & all the workers who took time out of their day to talk to me & show me their magic!! This is going to be a REALLY special bass!!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189009.jpg)
The neck is PERFECT! Thin & slim just like I wanted it!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189010.jpg)
The backside may even be prettier than the front! I LOVE the neck laminates!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189011.jpg)
Continuous wood back plates look amazing!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189012.jpg)
I LOVE the Knobby headstock!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189013.jpg)
Mica & I came up with a control layout that I like & will fit in the cavity. I shot some video too but haven't had a chance to edit it. I'll post it if it turned out any good.
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Wow Rusty that looks a seriously good bass. The back quilting especially looks like rippled silk and the neck looks very slim compared to a regular alembic 5 stringer.
What is the weight like at this stage without all the brass hardware etc?
Looks like it will be a stunner.
Jazzyvee
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Killer quilt, Rusty!
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Really, really beautiful. Loving the maple top and this is one of my favorite neck recipes. The neck lams and that accent veneer in the body really, really look nice.
Curious to see how that vermillion looks once it gets hit with that blueburst.
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Rusty , That looks great !
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Incredible, wow! Thanks so much for the pics.
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Jazzyvee, I was surprised how light the bass is right now. It weighs maybe 5 pounds? My wife even held it with no effort.
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Toby, the back of my neck won't have the blueburst, I want to keep it natural all the way through the body. So they are going to tape it off when they spray the body halves.
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A truly fabulous instrument! I already figured you'd want the back of the neck's playing surface to be natural satin w/o the blueburst, but to to keep the neck natural all the way through the body is a great idea. At least once during every gig you should flash the back of the instrument to the crowd just to hear the Huzzah that ensues....
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Thanks Sam! I do want the satin finish on the back of the neck, but it will be high gloss where it goes through the body. Here's a Photoshop mock up of what it will look like.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189048.jpg)
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Dude - you might want to consider changing your forum name to 10a quilt top...'cuz that top (and back) is at least twice as amazing as any 5a quilted maple that I've ever seen.
Also - did you go for the comfort taper on your 5-string neck?
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Haha! Thanks David! My neck dimensions are custom, I gave Susan the measurements I wanted & they built it to my specs which are 34 scale, 1.77 at the nut, 2.5 at the 24th fret, & .9 thick (front to back) at the 7th fret. It feels very similar to the neck on my Rickenbacker 4001 as far as thickness. I like a thin neck!
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Rusty, it has been said before; but the backside picture in your post # 1151 is certainly worthy of a WOW!
In fact I would say wowee wow wow.
Really nice!
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Are you placing the 5-pin and 1/4 connectors in the edge? Two of mine have that placement and it is pretty swell, leaving a clean front of beautiful wood.
Jon
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Thanks Pauldo! This is with just one coat of sealer, imagine how amazing it's going to look with the high gloss clear coat on it!
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Yes Jon, I am having the 5 pin & 1/4 jacks side mounted. Like you, I wanted a clean top with as few things on it as possible, so I'm side mounting the jacks & I also eliminated the pickup selector switch. I would never use it & it was just one more thing to clutter up the top. I can get the same function by turning down the volume knobs. The long jack you see in the picture is the side mounted 1/4 jack, so the challenge was to place the other controls where they wouldn't hit the 1/4 jack inside the electronics cavity. Mica came up with this layout & I loved it!
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On my series II I also have my sockets on the side and whilst it keeps the front clear of the cable it is more difficult to remove certain 5 pin sockets than others and I am concerned that the socket will eventually become loose in the bass. I have two cables with this type of connector which are really difficult to remove and i feel that it is putting undue stress on the socket.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189140.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189141.jpg)
This type is fine and comes out of the socket easily so now I use this one on the S2 and the other on the S1.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189142.jpg)
The difference may be manufacturing tolerances on the plug and the angle you need to get your hand to pull out the cable. The front mounted socket is far easier to deal with. I think if I was specifying a side mount socket I would have it mounted on a metal plate that would make it easier to pull it without stressing the socket. jazzyvee
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Beautiful quilts! This is going to be a great bass!
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Jazzyvee, Mica told me that they are now extending the edge of the 5 pin socket just beyond the edge of the wood instead of flush with the wood like they have done in the past. I think that may make it easier to get the connector aligned when plugging it in. Not sure if it will help when removing the connector or not. I just ordered cable & the Neutrik connectors that Jimmy Johnson uses to build his cables, so I will build me a spare 5 pin cable, probably in a shorter length than the 20' cable that comes with the bass. Some of my gigs need the 20' cable, but some I'm never more than 10' away from my amp so a 10-12' cable would work & not have the excess on the floor to step over.
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Here's the video I promised. Please do not take my lack of enthusiasm for disappointment in any way! Quite the contrary, I was SO blown away with the build so far that I was almost speechless! Jazzyvee, I gave you a shout out in the video for my source of info on the Europa since we have talked so many times & you answered all my questions I had trying to decide what electronics I wanted other Europa related questions. S. Wood, I also gave kudos to your amazing blue Europa as the inspiration & reason I will now own one myself!
The video is on You Tube, but it is unlisted so you have to have this link to access it. Please let me know if there is any issue with it not playing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9KohyBBgvo&feature=youtu.be (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9KohyBBgvo&feature=youtu.be)
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Very nice! Can't wait to see it with all of the Series II goodies installed. I saw a post about the CVQ center detent question. Is that a possibility still?
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Mica told me that it would be a 26 week wait to get the center indent CVQ & they didn't even tell her a price so I scrapped that idea. I will just learn to adjust the CVQ by ear the same way I did my SF-2, so it will be OK.
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BTW Brian, I see this was you 1st post, welcome to the Club! I checked out some videos of your band on your website, y'all are amazing! You should post in the Introductions page & share your videos! The members here will love it!
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Yo Rusty, Iv'e just watched the video, it looks great even without all the hardware installed. The knobbly head is a good call. Thanks for the credit too. :-)
Jazzyvee
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Yo Rusty, Iv'e just watched the video, it looks great even without all the hardware installed. The knobbly head is a good call. Thanks for the credit too. :-)
Jazzyvee
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Thanks Jazzyvee! I agree, I'm so glad I picked the Knobby! I've always loved the old school look of the Knobby but wasn't sure how it would look on the Europa, but I think it looks great! You're welcome for the credit, you were & continue to be a great source of info for the Europa!
Rusty
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Hi Rusty, Thanks for the warm welcome! Watched the video again. That ebony neck laminate looks fantastic and the maple top looks stunning. Most certainly and amazing instrument. Peace and blessings.
-Brian
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Hey Brian, you're welcome for the welcome! LOL! The Ebony laminate is wider than the Vermillion laminates so I should get some great sustain & bottom end on this one!
Rusty
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Hi Rusty, just saw your video. Love that quilt! Best wishes with your new treasure!
Rob
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Thanks Rob!
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Hey Mica, I've been cruising the old build threads from yesteryear & I noticed on several a picture with tape on the hum canceller while it was waiting for your Dad to do the final tweaking, what is the tape for?
It's Friday, could that possibly mean pictures of the routing & control holes? ;-)
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The tape just holds the humcanceller in place until the upgrade is done and it can be permanently attached.
Yup, I was sneaking around the drying room and saw your bass all pretty and full of various holes and cavities now.
Sorry I couldn't maneuver in for a better picture (and the lighting is not flattering in that room!), but at least you can see that stuff is continuing to happen
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The pictures just keep getting better & better! Each one shows more progress & means I'm that much closer to taking this beauty home!
Thanks so much for the picture! The control placement looks perfect!
Is the yellow tint from the sealer or is that just the lighting? Will it be lighter before you put the aqua & blue on? Where will the serial number be since I'm getting a continuous wood truss cover?
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superb maple figuring!
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Thanks Mario!
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Hey Mica, your last picture you posted doesn't show now, can you repost or are there any new ones from this week?
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Sorry Rusty, no new pictures as it's just getting sprayed every day. But here's the one that got away:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/189648.jpg)
We emailed about this already, but to keep the club updated, the bass looks just as it did when you were here, just the lighting in the drying room isn't really for modelling. The serial number will be on the inside, no good external spot for it.
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Thanks Mica! Have a great weekend!
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Wow Rusty!!!!!!
I'm coming to Galveston to steal that bass.
George
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Come on down George! I have a spare room for you!
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Hey Mica, are we tangled up in blue yet? ;-)
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Nope, not yet - blue will be after preset, where your bass will be starting on Monday. No new pics either, it just doesn't look different with more finish on it.
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Thanks for the update Mica!
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Any new updates Mica?
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Hey Rusty, I saw your bass in spray when I was visiting the factory a couple of weeks ago. Beautiful top! You sure you want to color it? can't wait to see it turn out.
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How ironic Austin, I saw your Classico under construction when I toured the factory in 2011! I don't suppose you took any pictures of mine did you? :-) Glad you like the wood! Mica also expressed sadness that I was going to paint it, but also said it will still be gorgeous painted! The wood grain will still show. If it wasn't for Steve Wood's blue Europa I would not be building this bass. I saw his & fell in love!! I never understood why anyone would want to paint an Alembic since they are known for their amazing exotic woods, until I saw Steve's, then I understood! They put many layers of clear coat on before the blue, so if I ever decided to go back natural I can. But I seriously doubt I ever will. Blue is my favorite color, & I have some themed inlays going in that go with the blue, so I think once you see the finished bass you will become a blue fan too!
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Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures when I was at the factory. But I can assure you your bass is coming along nicely, and the place is packed with beautiful instruments. I do wish I had brought my camera!
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I always bring my camera to Alembic when I go, but I am usually in such awe of what I'm seeing that I forget to take as many pictures as I would like! I get home & think about an instrument I saw & look for the picture of it & I have none! Some people can't walk & chew gum at the same time, apparently I can't drool & take pictures at the same time! LOL!
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Rusty, I had the same problem during my visit.
Jon
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Every time I walk through the doors at Alembic I go into an Alembicoma where my brain just shuts down from the overload of not only the beautiful instruments surrounding me, but also the rich history the factory has. Thinking about all the famous instruments that were produced for legendary players there & just picturing Stanley or Entwhistle, or Jimmy Johnson sitting on the couch checking out their latest Alembic is pretty mind blowing!
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Hey Mica, any new news? Are we still waiting on inlays?
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10 weeks since the last new picture......I'm having withdrawals.......
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Going to visit my Europa at the Mothership next week! Stay tuned for pictures!
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I just got home from visiting my Europa & it is looking great! They finished the inlays & frets & this week it should get the blue paint. My wife loves Orca whales, so I asked Mica to inlay a blue Orca at the 12th fret to honor my wife for not only allowing me to get this incredible bass built, but for actually encouraging me to get it! The bass is aptly named "Blue Orca" as the name plate shows.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/194653.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/194654.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/194655.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/194656.jpg)
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Rusty, The bass looks fantastic !
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Awesome!
Now I must have a dolphin on my next custom, what shall we call him? :-)
Now for some blue, can't wait to see this finished!:-)
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Love that inlay!!
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Looks GREAT!
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Thanks guys! Hopefully by Friday we will have some blue pictures!
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Nice Rusty!
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Thanks Brian!
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wow, very nice!
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Thanks Zom!
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Looks good now, will look FABULOUS in blue, and I really dig the Blue Orca inlay.
Ya know, Rusty, speaking as an expat-Texan to a still-residing-in-Mother-Texas citizen (especially since we're both from East Texas), it occurs to me that we should possibly consider forming an 'Texas Society of Alembics in Color' , so we can separate ourselves somewhat from our esteemed colleagues who are unfortunately doomed to
a) not be from Texas, and
b) live with B R O W N guitars and basses.
Whoops, gotta go, 'Giant' is coming on next on TCM !
J o e y
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NIIIIIIIICE !!!!
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Sounds like a great idea J o e y! I think I'll start a new thread for colored Alembics!
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Thanks Pierre!
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Hey Mica, are we feeling blue yet?
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Wish Jerry was singing about my bass now!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tv7DY27aPyk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tv7DY27aPyk)
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A great tune , with lots of words !
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Any updates Mica?
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Hey Mica, have they put any paint on yet or are you still waiting for hardware?
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Hardware was completed and is en route to the plater right now.
I was reviewing the colors with Bob this morning, so color is coming very soon. I'll share pics as soon as there is something see
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Awesome news Mica!! Thanks so much for the quick reply! I can't wait to see it blue!!
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Hey Mica, quick question, when I was there last month I didn't notice the holes for the side mounted jacks, although I didn't specifically look for them (I was too much in awe of the inlays to think about the jacks!) so I wanted to make sure they get drilled before the final finish is sprayed. Thanks!
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It's Friday, could their be any blue pictures yet??? :-)
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First hint of blue:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/196797.jpg)
There is more to come, but this is how it all starts.
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YEAH!!! I'm So excited!! Thanks Mica, you just made my weekend!!
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Wow; that looks cool!
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Perhaps very soon Rusty will be Jumping around just like that friendly Orca inlay on the fingerboard ! Looking Awesome Rusty ___ !
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Thanks Dave!
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I hope so Wolf!!
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That is beautiful!
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The blue really brings out the quilting! I can't wait for the next round of pictures!
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I love the hint of blue color. I bet it will look even better down the road, but if it were mine, I could stop right here!
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Thanks Edwin! I love the hint of blue too, but I want it fully Tangled Up In Blue! Just like Steve's masterpiece. Hopefully today being Friday, Mica will bless me with more pictures!
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That quilted top is amazing
VMG
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Thanks Vann!
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Killer quilt, Rusty!
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Coming from the Quilt Master himself, that is a wonderful endorsement! Thanks Steve!
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Getting bluer!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/197350.jpg)
Except the neck of course:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/197351.jpg)
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Rusty...... Rusty..... Wake up.!!!!
I'm sure Rusty is asleep but I can't be certain if it's because he is tired or has seen the pictures and passed out. :-)
It's looking great.
(Message edited by Jazzyvee on August 27, 2014)
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This keeps getting better and better.
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Hawt.
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Such spectacular quilt, with Blueburst. Feel like I am at the beach close to the sound of nature and bass! Congratulations. It looks quite awesome
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Jazzyvee, I know you are shocked that I wasn't checking my build every hour (that is my usual routine!) I have been deathly ill the last 2 days & didn't even feel like getting on my computer to look at the pictures. I went to the emergency room last night with 104.5 fever & I thought I was going to die before I had a chance to play this incredible bass! I'm a little better today but still ill.
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Mica, I have already responded to your email, but let me say publicly thank you so much for posting the pictures & for the amazing job y'all are doing on my bass! If it looks this good in pictures I can only imagine how good it looks in person!
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Thanks to everyone else for the kind comments!
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Wow Rusty, sorry to hear that. I hope you feel better soon. I'll keep an eye on this thread for ya. :-)
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Thanks Jazzyvee! I'm back among the living today with only 101.5 fever, but still not well. I did finally feel good enough to get out of bed & check my thread. Hopefully i'll continue to heal & get my strength back.
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Keep yer eye on the prize, buddy.
Healing starts in the mind - so just keep thinking about this magnificent instrument (and the music you will make with it) and block out all thoughts of illness.
You'll be back to normal in no time.
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Rusty, I hope that you feel back to full spec. soon !
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Thanks for the well wishes guys! I'm better today but still not out of the woods yet.
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Prayers Rusty for quick healing.
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Be well soon Rusty.
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Fever roll up to a
Hundred and five
Roll on up
Gonna roll back down
Glad it's rolling down, Rusty.
Peter
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Well, Mica called & said my bass will be completed & ready for pickup tomorrow, so I feel amazing!!! No......that must be the fever talking! LOL! Seriously though I am MUCH better today, fever down to around 99 & got up & ran some errands today & survived Taco Bell for supper, so I think I'm going to live! Thanks again for your prayers & well wishes! Now if I can just get that bass built........ :-)
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Update on my bass - after attempting to spray the aqua color in the center of my bass, it came out way too green so Mica decided to sand it down & start over with the paint. After talking to Mica, I decided to scrap the aqua center & go with a lighter blue to match the color variations in the acrylic on the Orca inlay. So the bad news is we are starting over with paint, but the good news is all the hardware is back from plating, the electronics are built, & the Cosmo Black tuners are in stock so it's ready to assemble as soon as the paint is done! The lighter blue center should be easier to do than the aqua, the natural yellow color of the Quilted Maple was making the aqua look too green.
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Some things just have to be right.
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Ah...the complexities of getting things just the way you want them. A little extra time, but it's the getting it just right part that eventually led all of us to the good people at Alembic. My personal experience has been that most places, even those who specialize in custom builds, would have told a customer, we gave you what you asked for...live with it. Instead, while you'll need to wait a bit longer you can rest assured that your personal vision for the perfect bass will in due time be cradled in your hands.
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Personally, I think going with the light blue center is a good idea; and it will look gorgeous on your top. If it had been me, I think I would have gone with the dark blue to light blue as a first choice. I love that look; and your bass is perfect for it.
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I'm not bummed by the setback, I'm actually encouraged. I think that my new color choice will match the Orca inlay better & make te overall appearance of the bass better. Plus now I will not have an exact copy of Steve's bass so we will both still have one of a kind basses! My hat is off to Mica for not ever being willing to settle or try to sell me on something I didn't ask for. She told me she was planning to sand it down & try again before I even saw pictures of how green it looked. She agreed with my choice to go with blue in the center over the original aqua which should make for an easier paint job. That is the great thing about the great folks at Alembic, they will never accept anything less than perfection to give the customer at least what they ask for, but in most cases they give the customer way more than they could have even dreamed of! I'm even more excited to see how it is going to turn out now!
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...just exactly perfect... is my prediction.
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I think you will be right David!
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Hey Mica, any new blue to review? :-)
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Still waiting Rust! G
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Me too George!
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I should be posting a new picture tomorrow - just talked to Bob and he thinks the blue-ishness will be worth viewing then.
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That's great news Mica!! I can't wait to see it!!!
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Still needs some more blue, and I swear it's not clear in the middle!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198362.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198363.jpg)
Getting there - more pics next week. We won't stop until it matches the Blue Orca inlay.
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Surreal. What a finish.
VMG
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Much better than the green tint! I know it's a work in progress, but it is getting there! Keep the pictures coming!
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198665.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198666.jpg)
On my monitor the color is somewhere between these two pictures, but the vibrancy is what you see in the one on the carpet. Despite the tinges to the blue hue in the images, there is no purple or green. I just blocked out the routes with black as I found them distracting. It looks amazing!
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It's gorgeous!
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There are reflections of the handle of my monopod on the left face of the bass.
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Wow, it looks like ripples of water that Orca can swim though and ride playfully on their wakes!
Very soothing look
Pete
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Sweet!
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wow, Mica, this is amazing!
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beautifull
(saving, saving)
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The blue is just electric. Good things do come to those patient enough to wait.
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Rusty, I think you have some new Blue to review!
Looks great.
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Yes Richard, indeed I do! While the new blue is under review, I will reserve my judgment until I determine the hue. While Mica assures me this color is not true, I have no doubt it will make me Woo Hoo!
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So after talking to Mica & playing with some photo filters, she tells me this is closer to the color of the bass & I love it! It is getting clear coat now, so the next round of pictures should be pretty spectacular! I can't wait!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198788.jpg)
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That looks wonderful Rusty !
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Agreed!
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Thanks guys!
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send it over here!!!!!!
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I wish I could bring it to Scotland George, but if you ever come to Texas you can play it!
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I got a new camera. Things like basses look better already!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198900.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198901.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198902.jpg)
Some of the clear back of the neck catching up now, and the mask removed from the logo. Remember, these are work-in-progress shots, so don't worry about the shiny vs dull areas - it's looking awesome!
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OH MY GOD MICA!!!!!!!!! I am honestly at a loss for words!!!!!! These are the pictures I've been waiting for!!!! It is absolutely stunning!!!!! It literally takes my breath away!!!! I'm SO glad the Aqua center didn't work out, this is perfect with the Orca!!! It's a good thing you didn't have it painted when I was out there in July, if I saw this in person I would hug you so hard I would probably break you!! WOW!!! Just WOW,WOW,WOW!!!! Please tell Bob he has outdone himself on this one, he hit it way out of the park!!!! The scary part is that it is only going to get better when it is complete! David (5a_quilt_top) was right, Perfection Realized!!!!
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Another beautiful bass on the way to completion.
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The front lam of the headstock is just incredible. Although I'm pretty much a natural wood guy, I can't get over how impressive the neck looks against the blue maple back. Wow! I'd really need to rethink a new build if I was doing one.
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Rusty,
I like your choice in keeping neck natural. Is that a standard size Ebony lamenent? This Bass looks like it's going to Roar!
Pete
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How much blue?
None more blue.
FWIW: I thought the first attempt was incredible.
Dood - this version is more than worth the extra time & effort.
It really does look like a ripple in still water when there is no pebble tossed...- especially the headstock lam.
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liquidy goodness
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Pete, I loved this neck recipe when I saw it on Will Gunn's bass, so I decided to use it for mine & I couldn't see painting over such a beautiful combination of woods! The Ebony is extra wide (3/8) compared to the Vermillion laminates which are 9/32. The extra width in the Ebony should give it great bottom end & help balance it out with the brightness of the Quilted Maple top & back. It's hard to see in the picture but there is a pinstripe maple laminate on either side of the Ebony. Here's a close up -
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/198930.jpg)
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Hey Rusty,
When the time comes, shoot me an email to confirm the correct shipping address. wink, wink, nudge, nudge, say no more.
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Michael, I'm hoping we will have a Texas Gathering after I get my bass so you you can see it in person! I can't wait for the next round of pictures!
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Me, too. That would great. But as alluded to in previous post, seeing it in person is already covered. Just helping out in my small way.
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Well, it's being shipped to Guitar Rez on an undisclosed date, so I guess you could camp out there between now & when it arrives to beat me to it! LOL!
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D'oh! Well, I'm sure they could probably care for the bass better than me. Maybe... ;)
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They are going to check & adjust the neck after it hits the Texas humidity before I pick it up.
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Wow Rusty, that blue burst is amazing. Good call!
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Thanks Gregory!
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I'm usually not turned on at all by coloured Alembics but that really is a nice blue Rusty.
Graeme
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Thanks Graeme!
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I too would prefer a natural wood if I was having a custom build.
However I think if it was a white maple wood that was really dramatic like this one, choosing a transparent coloured finish would still allow the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. As you know I have a natural finish maple quilt Series II europa that is as dramatic as this one and I still think visually for me it's too loud and if I was was choosing the maple quilt for a new build I would have a slight brown/amber tint to tone it down.
This one is sure to stand out on stage.
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Jazzyvee, your Maple Series II is the bass that made me fall in love with the Europa body. Your bass is stunning! I do want mine to stand out on stage & I think it will also! I can't wait for the next round of pictures!
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No doubt about it your bass will make it's presence seen and felt.
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Now I need to practice harder to hone my skills & make them worthy of the attention this bass will get!
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Hey Mica, are they still spraying clear coat or is it in cure out yet?
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That blue is stunning! That is a gorgeous bass?. congratulations on an exquisite instrument!
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Thanks Keith!
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Any new pictures this week Mica?
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I would imagine from the last picture it is pretty close to completion so the next ones I would expect to be be the final build ones. The bass may well be with Ron for calibration as we speak. I'm really looking forward to the final pictures too.
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I'm hoping that is the case Jazzyvee, but I will love any new pictures, even if it is not fully assembled yet.
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We live for picture updates don't we Rusty!
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Absolutely Keith! I still pinch myself making sure this bass isn't just a dream, pictures are Proof Of Life!
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Beautiful!
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I wish they'd post mine!
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This bass is giving me serious GAS.
Mmmmm... 5-string fretless in deep blue...
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No new pictures... this is the boring time where the clear coats build up.
Good news is that it looks like 2-3 more coats so maybe next week I can post pics when it's in the final cure phase. Getting close now!
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Thanks for the update Mica! I can't wait to see the final finish on it!! I really can't wait to see it with strings on it!!! The closer it gets, the harder the wait!!
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Thanks for the update Mica! I can't wait to see the final finish on it!! I really can't wait to see it with strings on it!!! The closer it gets, the harder the wait!!
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Fingers crossed for Friday pictures!!
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Rusty: I think I'm almost as excited to see these photos as you are...Photos...photos...photos.
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Brian, I guess we'll have to wait a little longer for new photos. I'm sure they will be worth the wait!
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January 2015 bro LOL!!!!
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January 2015 bro LOL!!!!
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This was in my fortune cookie today -
Thankfully the wonderful folks at Alembic share the same sentiment!
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I spoke to Mica yesterday & it is getting rubbed & buffed out this week. If all goes well it could be assembled next week! The next pictures will be fully assembled, I can't wait!!
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Aw Rusty, now you just HAVE to put ^that^ inspirational memo somewhere in your case...
:sigh: I only have a cheesecake picture of Barbara Eden in the case with my Persuader. :blushing: (because I couldn't find a suitable fortune cookie!)
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Peghead was looking really good!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/200088.jpg)
But our yearning for perfection has required an additional coat of finish on the peghead. Regroup in a couple of days.
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Thanks for the tease Mica! Feed your yearning.......I'll wait!
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Very liquid! I love it!
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They sent the wrong color tuners to Alembic so now we are waiting for the right ones to come in. Hopefully assembly will begin next week.
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och aye....hoots mon...........it's no bad aw richt the noo!
Still a braw bricht moonlicht nich the nicht here in Sotland Laddie!!
Bass looks ace Rusty
G
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I have no idea what you just said George, but thanks, I think!
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LOL!!!!!
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Now I have a yearning for new pictures!
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We had to send your bass back to finish, but James rubbed it out today, will buff again on Monday! That's how these things go, but I know you are glad we are picky.
The tuners arrived and they look good - a little darker than the ruthenium, but a close match. I'm so happy that our distributor was able to get these to us so quickly.
If all goes well with the buff out and assembly early next week, we should be able to ship as soon as the case arrives, probably first week of December. Home stretch!
Only picture I have is James gently placed an inlay he was cutting on your beautifully sanded blue for contrast.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/201240.jpg)
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Hey Mica, thanks for the update. I'm glad y'all are picky! Picky = Perfection! Hopefully the buff out will go well & they can start assembling next week. I can't wait to see the finished pictures! Nice inlay!
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Hey Mica, when you get a chance can you take a picture of the hardware & tuners together & post it or email it to me so I can see how close the color is? I know they aren't an exact match, just curious how close they are.
Thanks!
Rusty
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Hey Mica, did we survive the 2nd buff out?
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Hey Rusty! Great talking to you today! I didn't stay late enough to get all the guts installed, but here is a little peek at what's to come. Looks freakin' awesome!!!!!
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And of course, I mean I didn't stay long enough to take a picture with all the guts installed - James is who actually takes care of that!
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Beautiful !
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Absolutely stunning Mica! Thanks so much for the phone call & the picture! I'm pinching myself to make sure I'm not dreaming! It may not have knobs yet, but it has strings & that means it is near completion & I couldn't be more excited! I love the contrast between the dark Walnut & the Quilted Maple!
This morning I got to be there for the birth of my grand daughter & now my other baby is almost ready to be born! This will be my best Thanksgiving ever!
I hope you get to feeling better & wish you & your family a Happy & Blessed Thanksgiving!
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Rusty:
Congratulations on two fronts...your grandchild and your bass. I must admit I initially had the bass listed first but after thinking about having my own 1st grandchild this past May (who lives in El Paso) changed the order. Enjoy her! Being a grandparent has been great. All reinforcement and none of the hassles.
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Congrats on the granddaughter. And the bass is looking pretty good!
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You're a doubly lucky fellow Rusty. I'll add my congrats on the new youngster, and concur with Mica on the bass. It it indeed, freakin'awesome!
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Thanks for all the congrats on my grand daughter! She is such a blessing & has helped keep my mind off my Europa as we come to the home stretch of the build! Here's is my little Zoey, hopefully we will see some pictures this week of the birth of my other baby, Blue Orca!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/202038.jpg)
(Message edited by rustyg61 on November 30, 2014)
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Mica's last picture has disappeared, so here it is again -
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/202041.jpg)
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Congratulations on both the bass and more importantly your grand-daughter.
She looks safe and content in your arms.
Rusty, she has your hair!
It is with eager anticipation that I also await the pictures of finished Orca in situ and on stage.
God bless your family
slawie
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Congratulations on both the bass and more importantly your grand-daughter.
She looks safe and content in your arms.
Rusty, she has your hair!
It is with eager anticipation that I also await the pictures of finished Orca in situ and on stage.
God bless your family
slawie
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Thanks Slawie! God has indeed richly blessed my family, especially this week!
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Congratulations on your new grand-daughter, Rusty. Grand-kids are great! Also, congrats on your other new baby still being finished. The blue looks fabulous!
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Thanks Rob!
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Your grand daughter looks beautiful as does your bass. I'm surprised you somehow didn't convince the parents to work either blue or orca in to her name though you haven't shared her middle name with us yet. Now that would have been a real reason to name a bass (or a grand daughter).
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Your grand daughter looks beautiful as does your bass. I'm surprised you somehow didn't convince the parents to work either blue or orca in to her name though you haven't shared her middle name with us yet. Now that would have been a real reason to name a bass (or a grand daughter).
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Rusty ! The Pic Of You And your Grand Daughter Is 101% Precious !
congratulations all around ___________.
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(Double post correction )
1001% Precious !
(Message edited by sonicus on December 01, 2014)
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Brian, the Blue Orca is a tribute to my wonderful wife who loves Orca's & encouraged me to get this bass. My grand daughter is Zoey Nichole. I think it might have been tough to get my son to convince his wife to name their first born after a whale! LOL! Thanks for the compliments!
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Thanks Wolf! She is most definitely precious! They only live 45 minutes away but they might as well be on another planet because I want to see her & hold her every day but can't!
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Hey Mica, hope you're feeling better now. Does the Blorca have knobs yet? Could this be the week I have been waiting for when I get to see a completed picture of my bass? ;-)
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Congratulations Rusty on becoming a grandfather and also soon to become the father of a superb bass.
I hope you have enjoyed your long Orca pregnancy and that the birth is not painful.... :-)
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Thanks Jazzyvee! I waited 53 years to become a grandfather, so I guess the year wait for my Europa wasn't too bad! It was exciting watching the build unfold & all the pieces come together. I can't wait to see the final photo with all the electronics & a full shot to see the tuners & peghead with the rest of the bass. The only painful part of the delivery will be the long drive to Austin to pick it up! That will be the longest 3 hours of my life! When my SCSD was delivered to my house I had to wait 3 hours for my wife to get home from work before I could open the box, so that may have been harder because I had the bass in my house but could only stare at the box while waiting on my wife to get home.
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Hoping for Friday pictures of my completed bass!
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very nice series bass!!!
congratulations with your grand daughter!
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Thanks Zomnius!
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Update from Mica, my bass construction is finished & is now on Ron's bench getting calibrated. I will have it in my hands soon! Pictures coming on Monday.
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Ease the wait; hang with the grandkid!! Congratulations - grandkids are the best! My 1st is 2 & I just found out he's getting a sibling (no Alembic accompanying, though, alas).
Peter
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Great advice Peter! I am definitely enjoying my new grand daughter! I got to feed her Weenesday night & she now officially has me wrapped around her little finger! Congratulations on your second one coming!
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Just think soon you will be able to sing her to sleep whilst playing lovely music on your bass.
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Hopefully she will be a music love & my bass won't scare her Jazzyvee! Her dad (my son) is a band director & French Horn payer, so she will grow up in a musical house!
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Hopefully she will be a music lover & my bass won't scare her Jazzyvee! Her dad (my son) is a band director & French Horn payer, so she will grow up in a musical house!
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Congrats on becoming a grandfather! She's a cutie!
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Thanks Edwin! She gets cuter every time I see her!
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Hey Mica, any Finale shots yet?
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Congratulations Rusty, you are really blessed, managed to get a gift more precious than this gorgeous new Alembic! Happy for you
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Many blessings Rusty! Congratulations!
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Thanks Mario & Brian! Zoey is wonderful & the Blue Orca should be finished any day now, so life is good!
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I called Alembic today, it's still on the bench with Ron.....
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Pics Rusty...Pics!!!, of both babies.
George
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George, I too would love to see new pictures of my Europa baby, but I have no control over that. I'm sure Mica will post some when she has time to take them. Here's one of my favorites of Zoey, smiling as she naps on her mother!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/203393.jpg)
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Rusty,
Oh my God, she's precious!
Times like these Are the treasures of life.
Peace
Pete
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Thanks Pete! She is truly a blessing & helps keep my mind occupied while waiting for my Europa!
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Finishing touches with dad!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/203455.jpg)
Love the happy sleep picture.
I also heard the case is shipping to us tomorrow
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Awesome picture Mica! Thanks so much for posting it! I never realized how much your Dad looks like Santa! He will definitely be Santa to me when he finishes working his magic on my bass! Can't wait for the couch pictures!!!
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To directly quote Stevie Wonder Isn't she lovely
That's more a statement than a question
slawie
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An absolutely gorgeous photo of the baby in your family (your grand daughter that is). Her facial expression is one of TOTAL contentment and peace.
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ALL the above is simply STELLER ! --(And sweet ___ )
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At the risk of overloading my build thread with grand daughter pictures, I had to post this new one I just got! My son is a band director & plays French Horn, so I really love this shot!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/203474.jpg)
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Wonderful!!
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Great pic! I'll be showing this one to senior management.
Bill, tgo
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Thanks George & Bill!
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Rusty , That French Horn Baby pic, is a real prize winner ! Seriously ! it is so touching that NO one can not Love it ( Love with a capital L. ). You can enter it in a baby picture contest OR as PR for Musical Education . Just might be natural winner .
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Thanks Wolf! It is my favorite picture of Zoey so far.
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What a wonderful picture of Zoey Nicole! Congratulations Rusty!
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Thanks Art!
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Just got an email from Mary, my Europa is shipping tomorrow! Stay tuned for pictures from Mica!
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That is wonderful Rusty !
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Excellent news!
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Congratulations on your granddaughter, and congrats on your incoming new bass! You are doubly blessed!
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Just before Mary closed the case...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204156.jpg)
The case exterior is very blue, a little deeper than the bass color, but you'd never think it was anything but blue:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204157.jpg)
Enjoy!
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WOW.That is fantastic.MERRY CHRISTMAS.
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Thanks for posting these Mica, I love the case & I REALLY love the bass!! I will comment more after I pick it up on Saturday. I can't believe the journey is finally over & I will soon hold this work of art in my hands! I have enjoyed watching the build come together & seeing raw slats of wood transformed into this pristine beauty by the skill of the amazing people at Alembic. Stay tuned for more to come.....!!
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Wow!!!! Merry Christmas and many Happy New Years to follow indeed!
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I love the way this bass turned out!
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Looks awesome, congrats! (with both newborns that is) :-)
The Jan-Al cases are awesome to, I'm pretty sure you'll be impressed. (just don't get under it or you'll only be pressed) :-)
I know from experience that receiving your Alembic is a very good way to close the year, have fun!
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Me too Dave!
Flip, your Jan-Al case was what inspired me to get one for this bass!
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WOW! I suspect the anticipation is going to build even further as it travels closer and closer to you. I tracked EVERY STEP of the way from California to Minnesota when mine was shipped and I suspect you will be closely watching too. Congratulations and enjoy!
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Brian, I'm already following the tracking on UPS! It just left Santa Rosa, I'm guessing heading to the airport. Luckily, I did 2 day shipping so I won't have to wait a week to get it. It will be in Austin on Friday & I will pick it up there on Saturday. That is going to be the longest 3 hour drive of my life!!!
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I anticipate a couple of sleepless nights coming up.
It looks absolutely stunning.
I imagine you will post some pics when you can eventually take it off to lay it down for a photo opportunity.
Congratulations Rusty. It seems as if it has been a good year for you.
slawie
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Slawie, as it turns out I've been working nights all week, so I'm in the Sleepless Nights mode! Hopefully I can sleep Friday night so I can get up early Saturday & drive to Austin. I will definitely post some pictures when I get home with it. I will take some at Guitar Rez when I pick it up & also shoot video of me seeing it the first time. I spoke to Mica tonight & she said it sounds absolutely amazing, so I can't wait to hear it! I've already held it during the build so I know the neck feels incredible, I just can't wait to feel it with strings on it! It has indeed been a good year for me, God has blessed me greatly this year!
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Wow Rusty, that bass is just indescribably beautiful. Congrats again! Looking forward to the next updates.
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Three hour drive each way. Ouch! That drive home with the bass sitting in the car but inaccessible would be a killer for me.
Rusty. Please remember...it is not safe to play bass while driving a car.
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Congratulations on the arrival of your granddaughter and on the new bass, Rusty. Heck of a way to end 2014! I'd love to see you top it in '15!
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Killer axe, Rusty. Well worth the excruciating wait!
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WOW.
That turned out great - well worth the little extra wait for the refin.
Congrats!
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Here's a couple of more pictures Mica sent me. I really love the tailpiece shot, it show the high gloss finish very well, & really showcases the amazing skill that was used to tape off the back of my neck where it goes through the body. I wanted to keep the neck natural, & the perfectly straight & square lines between the blue & the neck are incredible! Notice the thin blue pinstripe that runs the perimeter of the body, it would have been easy to tape over that where it crosses the neck, but they didn't & I am blown away with the attention to detail!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204279.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204280.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204281.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204282.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204283.jpg)
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One word....amazing!
Once again do not attempt to play or stare at bass for prolonged periods of time while driving.
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Thanks for the good advice Brian! We may take my wife's SUV so she can drive on the way home! I might be slightly distracted!
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Wow! That is just stunning! Congratulations!!!
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Rusty , I am really happy for you regarding this Bass !
Congratulations ! Orca Bass is simply awesome .
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Rusty , I am really happy for you regarding this Bass !
Congratulations ! Orca Bass is simply awesome .
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Those pictures are superb! Congratulations, Rusty, it's beautiful! Happy playing!
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Congratulations, Rusty! She's spectacular!
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I would have to consider leaving this bass at home instead of gigging it, I would be so scared it got marked or dinged.
Awesome colour and the chrome hardware looks a great contrast to the finish.
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It's on Texas soil! The long awaited Out for delivery notice!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204345.jpg)
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Just got an email from Guitar Rez, my bass was just delivered!
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Hey Rusty, just noticed that w-i-d-e ebony stringer -
Let 'er roar, Rusty, Let 'er ROAR!
All the best to you and your expanding family,
Ed
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ENJOY!!!
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Sitting in front of Guitar Rez waiting for the doors to open!
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Hah!
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Did you camp out in a tent? Lol.
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Okay, it's been five hours since Rusty's last post. Does 9-1-1 take from 200 miles away?
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I'm guessing he's in a state of shock. It's also difficult to type when playing...or drooling.
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Russsssstttttyyyyyyy where are youuu?
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I'm Baaaaaaaaaack!!! Sorry to keep everyone waiting but I literally just got home from Austin. I spent 2 hours at Guitar Rez playing & drooling & the the drive home was 4 hours with traffic, so I'm finally home but haven't had a chance yet to play it through my amp to really see what it sounds like. My initial reaction is I LOVE IT!!!!!!!! I will give a detailed reply after I ve played it through my amp, but I will say this, the amazing marbling if the Quilted Maple in conjunction with the gorgeous blue paint does a very good job hiding the drool!!! Stay tuned......film at 11 :-)
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that blue is so impressive!
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I know how you feel, bass brother.
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Rusty, I can attest to the fact that amber-tinted quilted maple also hides drool.
lol
Gorgeous bass. Enjoy!
Bill, tgo
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I finally had a chance to play through my amp yesterday & it sounds great! It has much more bottom end & punch than my SCSD, which is what I was hoping for. Susan was right about the woods she selected, the Walnut core does give it great attack, & the quilting on the Maple is amazing!The action is incredible & the neck is perfect! The neck dimensions are exactly what I ordered & it feels great in my hands. I can see why Mica had trouble capturing the exact color of the bass because it changes depending on the light & angle you are looking at it. When you tilt it side to side the ripples in the quilting are 3D & look like waves on water. I love the Ruthenium plating & the Cosmo Black tuners are a very close match. The blue LED's are awesome! I can't wait to play it live to really see them in stage lighting. It feels solid in my hands like my SCSD, much better than my Schecter 5 string which feels like plastic after playing my Alembic. I have a lot to learn about tweeking the controls to get the sound I want, but I know the possibilities are endless with the Series II electronics. I was worried about aligning the 5 pin cable with the side mounted jack, but it is actually very easy to plug the cable in without looking at the socket. I still have a lot to discover on this bass, but after spending a couple of hours on it, it appears to be just what the doctor ordered, & I think it's only going to get better as I get more used to it & learn the controls better. I also love the Jan-Al case! Even though it is larger than the Calzone case I have for my SCSD, the Jan-Al is 10-15 pounds lighter! It also has wheels on one end which makes moving the bass super easy. They gave me a large storage compartment too that is big enough for my 4 strap & two 5 pin cables. I'm at work now but will post more pictures when I get home. I'm still pinching myself to make sure this isn't a dream & that this amazing bass is actually mine! It was definitely worth the wait!
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Great to hear Rusty, if your experience is anything like mine, then the bass will appear to sound better the more you play it. I really felt I couldn't hear the ebony when playing the bass in an enclosed room at home but on a gig, the sound of the bass is so different and much more open and I find that I don't need the filters as open as wide I do when at home in order to hear tone.
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I did notice that I can hear filter changes better on the Europa than my SCSD. On my SCSD I have to roll the pan towards the bridge pup to really hear filter changes good, but on the Europa, I can hear filter changes with both pup volumes 100%.
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Sorry about the lack of pictures & comments, I have been busy Christmas shopping ever since getting home with my bass, so I haven't had time to play it much or post pictures. I promise I will right after Christmas!
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Here's a video that shows the 3D depth of this amazing Quilted Maple!
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=389054647937085 (https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=389054647937085)
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Rusty; I got a this content is currently unavailable message; is it a non-public page?
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I forgot Dave that I have my Facebook setting to friends only, let me upload it to You Tube & post a link.
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OK, here's a few pictures that show the awesome blue LED's & one from when I picked it up at Guitar Rez in Austin.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204963.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204964.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204965.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204966.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/204967.jpg)
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Here's the video I tried to post on Facebook of the 3d effect of the Quilted Maple. This is on You Tube, so you should be able to see it.
http://youtu.be/yzd16GnE8G0 (http://youtu.be/yzd16GnE8G0)
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Have y'all heard anything back from your supplier on if they can make CVQ controls with a center indent?
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Update on the CVQ question, Mica said it would be a 26 week wait to have them built, so I scrapped that option.
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I know it's way early for this but I wanted to ask while I was thinking about it. When they do the setup can you get the tech to count the number of turns on the truss nuts from seated to final tension so I can have a reference point to get it back to the factory setting should I have to make any adjustments after it adjusts to the Texas humidity? Thanks!