Alembic Guitars Club
Alembic products => Factory to Customer => Topic started by: mica on July 07, 2006, 04:27:19 PM
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The Ebony and Maple neck fresh off the presses:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/29690.jpg)
And the top:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/29691.jpg)
what a big piece of Coco Bolo!
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Austin
It's going to be a lot of fun watching this one being built! What scale is the neck?
Paul
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Wow, it just registered that this is a Classico in progress! (didn't fully read the thread title a few days ago).
This will be fun, even from the sidelines. How many strings?
-Bob
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Thank you sooo much for the pics, mica!!! I can't wait to see the top cut.
I'm not looking at the specs currently, but if i remember correctly it's a 41 and 1/2 scale length... Stanley's measurements on his 18th (?) century bass.
Definitely 4 strings. My hands can't agree with an upright with more than 4.
Excitement is not the word.
Austin
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A 41 1/2 scale, two ebony lams, mahogany body, and a coco bolo top. That should give a great fundamental!
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First off Congrats!
Secondly, ... which lottery did you win?
I would have loved to have seen the look on the Alembic peoples faces when the work order for a coco bolo classico came through.
I predict that this will be the most watched thread of 2006.
- Jim
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Coco Bolo is such an awesome wood. This is going to be one fine instrument. Congrats Paul, and now as Carly Simon once sang, Anticipation.....
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Paul? hmm.... pretty sure this ones mine ;p
Jim- I actually let them know I was interested in a Walnut classico, but then Mother Alembic herself told me she'd been storing this piece of Coco Bolo specifically for a classico for several years. I'm so psyched. I've checked this thread like 10 times a day... let the addiction begin!... er... continue!
Austin
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Okay, Chip has pulled out the pieces and is prepping the clamps for getting this big boy glued up. These are the Mahogany body parts:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/32699.jpg)
Do you have a preference for the top bookmatch arrangement?
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/32700.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/32701.jpg)
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Thanks for the update, Mica.
I really like the look of the layout in the first pic, especially with the part in the top of the pic being the lower part of the bass. I think I'd like to go with that if possible.
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Some more neck work recently:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33262.jpg)
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Peghead getting its veneers glued up:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33416.jpg)
And Chip cutting some of the body laminations:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33417.jpg)
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Even though there's a lot of cool instruments in the works, I'm really dyin to see an update on this thing.
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uhh.. me too. x]
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I'd really like to know what's going on with this thing.... any word???
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I would like to amend my previous post to the following...
I predict that this will be the most watched thread of 2007.
- Jim
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Haven't heard anything in a while... Dark Star's disappearance is making me impatient :`
in through the nose, out through the mouth......
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I should have some more progress to show you on this project soon. Dad and I have redesigned the height adjusting peg, and it just made everything else wait wait wait. But the new design is way more slick, and has much more adjustment range.
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hey mica.
i know you're constantly busy, but if you could at least tell me something is going on with this thing, that'd be awesome.
thanks.
austin.
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. . . . . . . anything?
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Bump.
Just curious.
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i gotta feel for you on this.
this could be the longest make in alembic history
right up there with the danish twins.(you have to visit the factory to see those)i wonder if they were ever completed?
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Heard a rumor that they're progressing. I'd like to see this one, too.
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i wish i heard rumors.
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What on earth is taking so long for this instrument?
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I think I remember reading something about a total redesign of the electronics.
Not 100% sure about that.
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Yes, redesign of the electronics and the height peg. This project will get some FTC traction soon, but most of the work has been on the drawing board.
I'd need to talk to you about your Brown Bass Austin. Please either email me a good time to call you or try me at the factory. Thanks!
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Has this moved forward any?
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Hey Mica. We've been trying to get in touch with you via email.
Any news on this guy? Let me know what's up.
Thanks!
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i'm just gonna bump this thing until i hear something... so...
BUMP.
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the treble control basically doesn't work, so as far as the sound goes, i can't really answer that yet. it plays nicely, but as far as i can tell, there's no way to adjust the action outside of having the bridge shaved down and resaddled.. so hopefully that doesn't become an issue.
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Hey - Congratulations!! I didn't realize you were in NYC. Perhaps I can bring Diamond-Eyed Jack over for a meet-and-greet!
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And also a couple Distressors!! Quite nice comps!
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Congratulations on the Bass . Awesome .
Is your 2 Studer an A827 ?, I can't see that much of it but this is my guess.
Wolf
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Is that a golden piglet and Beethoven combo? Nice touch :-)
Congrats on getting your gorgeous bass.. very sorry to hear it's got some gremlins. That's gotta be just a wee bit frustrating. Your outward calm through it all has been most admirable.
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Wolf- Yes, an A827. Seriously looking for a good place to buy tape if you know one.
The pig's name is Karlton Bank (Karl for short... Points for the reference).
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cj- any time! always down to jam and talk alembics.
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What a nice studio you are building, congrats!
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Karlton Bank for the piggy. LOL. Alfonso Ribiero on the Fresh Prince of Bel Air was name Carlton Banks.... Does piggy dance as well as Carlton did?
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Austin , perhaps this link will help you purchase the recording tape that you asked about; http://www.rmgi-usa.com/ (http://www.rmgi-usa.com/)
Wolf
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http://www.quantegy-online.com/
http://www.tapestockonline.com/reeltoreel.html
http://www.reeldealpa.com/
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awesome. thanks guys!
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It would be my advice to stay away with any used tape or old tape with your machine unless you are planing to to do Analog to Digital transfer & restoration . IF such a job arises should the tape be Mylar such as Ampex and Quantagy 456 you might have to bake it or you might and have complications of Sticky Shed Syndrome . NEVER bake ACETATE tape such as Scotch111.
It would also be in tour best interest to purchase an alignment tape from Magnetic Referance Laboritories ,
And keep your heads cleaned and demagnetized.
MRL ALIGNMENT & CALIBRATION TAPE ;http://home.comcast.net/~mrltapes/ (http://home.comcast.net/~mrltapes/)
STICKY SHED SYNDROME http://www.loc.gov/preservation/scientists/projects/sticky_shed.html (http://www.loc.gov/preservation/scientists/projects/sticky_shed.html)
Wolf
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Got the alignment tape with the machine, luckily. I hardly know anything about recording to tape, or even about the studer. I am by no means an engineer, just a musician. But I am learning a little at a time from my engineer friends that work out of the studio.
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Austin,
All good advice above this will make a huge difference in how the Machine sounds. Tape has a wonderful natural compression to it. That Studer is one if not there last Models. Like all analog equipment it has a series of stages that need to be aligned. I would make sure line ins, outs, Bias levels are set proper and all are even. These machines I believe has an Auto align after the initial setup. The other thing to consider is Head wear. You?re in NY I used to work with John French in NJ http://www.jrfmagnetics.com/ (http://www.jrfmagnetics.com/). He?s a great guy and always helpful.
Tell him Pete from the Dupe gives his regards.
And try to get a Manual
Hope tis was helpful
Pete
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Much appreciated, pete. Im working with joe salvatto now, as he helped me build the studio and get the machine, so I feel like i'm in good hands. But I will definitely keep your suggestion in mind!
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Austin,
The NY Audio World is a small one. I know Joe as well. He's also a good guy and around for a long time. Please give him my regards as well.
Pete
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will do, pete. please feel free to let me know anytime you're in the city so you can come hang at the studio!
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Pete , I met Mr. John French at an AES show some years ago . On both the Ampex and Studer list forum Mr. French is held in high regard as the ultimate tape head and tape path resource.( As you already know)
Wolf
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Thanks Austin,
If I find my way back up there I will! It?s been a long time since I?ve been in a Studio especially one with a Studer. Man, I spent 20 years in Studios designing and building them. Speaking of design and build, those are some Beautiful Basses you have there. May you enjoy every second playing them.
Wolf, John is a Class act. I?m glad he?s doing well.
Pete
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Hopefully I'm not bringing up a painful subject... did you ever get the treble control issue resolved? Love to hear how this bad boy sounds!
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the treble control has been fixed, but there is still a fair amount of radio noise getting picked up. when i spoke with mica shortly after getting the bass, she said they were working on a new pick up to replace the current one. no idea what kind of time line that's on.
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Wow, man, now I'm getting anxious too!
Want to see this giant soon badly...
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I'll help!
BUMP.
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Bomp Bomp Bomp, Bomp Bomp..
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BUMP, indeed.
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Healthy BUMP.
I want current pictures. Like with a newspaper.
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I am a square
what does BUMP mean?
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Lady Bump perhaps? ;-)
(Message edited by chrisalembic on December 25, 2009)
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Isn't that the guy from those stupid milk commercials? Looks just like him! lol
Bill, tgo
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a bump, jazzy, is just a post that's intended to bump the thread up to the top of the page so HOPEFULLY someone pays attention and gives me an update. so in asking what a bump is, you have provided a bump.
BUMP.
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austin
if i got some stain and refinished my classico would you be interested?
oye vey......
adding my major BUMP to the cause
i wonder what the longest build in alembic's history actually is?
I know of the scandanavian twins that i saw when i visited the factory 5 yrs ago.
those were 2 his and hers instruments with incredible inlay work on the back and necks that the owners requested no photos be published of. i have a couple but wont post or email per val and mica's request
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Secret inlays? I'm intrigued to say the least.
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OK - (he says, banging his Paul TBO Memorial Beer Bottle on the desk) - PICTURES!!!
Peter
ps - Flax, I wouldn't think of asking you for the pix - but I will say you're a cruel tease!
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Thank you for the explanation. Since my first BUMP was untintentional, here is my official BUMP
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Random factoid BUMP
Did you know that Walter Carlos is now Wendy Carlos?
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Actually, I believe they are now both dead. But they are still musical - they're decomposing!
Bill, tgo
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BUMP
What did you get this bass for its third Christmas?
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fourth christmas, brian. fourth.
BUMP.
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Austin,
Reading through, it's obvious that you've sent emails... have you called and spoken with anyone at Alembic? Just curious.
I've been watching this one since it's inception and have been wondering for years what was going on.
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fourth christmas, brian. fourth.
Ouch. Sorry man.
Painful holiday bump.
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BUMP BUMP
Greg
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Austin,
As a fellow Alembic owner and one who's gone through a lengthy build process to receipt of instrument, I'll offer the following ...
Yes, it is very frustrating. I will be honest and say that at one point I was on the verge of cancelling my order ... only to pull back from the brink once common sense set in. I've learned the following over the build period for my instrument (which I now have):
1 - Excellence takes time. And it is worth every minute.
2 - Family owned companies aren't like cookie cutter companies in that they have the time to dedicate to single instruments (unless you're talking custom shop instruments). As a result, they pay attention to the slightest detail, which takes time.
3 - Customers expect a lot from Alembic since they're paying a lot.
4 - Alembic does its best to provide updates, but again, there is no one dedicated 24/7 to do that (I won't go into whether they should have someone doing that or not - that is a decision for Susan, Ron, Mica and crew to make). Call them, and they'll be more than happy to update you, trust me.
5 - The more you change things mid stream, the more you add to the desired delivery date. I know this first hand. ;-(
6 - Alembic will err on the side of caution when there is a build issue at hand. In other words, they'll defer to you for input before making a change. Again, another thing I know first hand. This adds to the time it takes to make your instrument. But, in the end, you get exactly what it is you tell them you want. I know I did.
7 - Patience is indeed a virtue.
8 - Once in hand, you will have the instrument of your dreams, and all the frustration will wash away. It did for me, anyway, when I was playing along to the Who this afternoon, a smile on my face.
9 - The look on the faces of fellow players when they see your instrument is worth the wait. Everyone who sees (and hears) my bass is blown away by the looks and the tone. To have bragging rights like that ... well .. the four years was worth it to me.
10 - In the end, you will get what you want, in spades.
Be patient, my friend. Trust me - good things, and I mean very good things will follow.
V/R,
Alan
P.S. Bump, Bumpity, Bump Bump Bump!
(Message edited by ajdover on December 25, 2009)
(Message edited by ajdover on December 25, 2009)
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Patience?
Don't say that, the man is waiting for 4 years! Man, I would be crazy... BUMP!
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Mario,
I think Alan waited for 4 years or so as well....
Poor guys... I can't imagine how that feels...!
BUMP
Greg
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Actually, I believe they are now both dead. But they are still musical - they're decomposing!
Nah...he/she's fine....
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Actually, I believe they are now both dead. But they are still musical - they're decomposing!
Nah...he/she's fine....
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i hope you havent paid for this yet. think of all the interest you'd have missed out on.
alan
as appropriate as your comments are for normal production- 4 years is inexcusable regardless of what austin is being told
it couldnt possibly take 4 years (imho)to redo electronics and a new peg design.
considering there was nothing wrong (imho) with the original elec and peg as heard on my classico
what i am curious about is that chip is in the photos of early production and he has been gone for over 2 years now last i heard.
as obtuse as this may sound? maybe they dont remember how to make one.
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Sadly, some instruments do take a very long time. It isn't always obvious why. There are actual humans at work here, and there are times when certain projects do not receive attention, and there are times when the attention a project receives isn't obvious in the build record.
2009 was quite a tumultuous year for many of the people that work here. I choose to not go into details, but it's important that you know there's a reason that some projects that need input from everyone had not received the attention they should have, including Austin's bass. I am sorry for this.
I'm happy to report the circuit redesign is complete. I'm glad you had no problems with your Classico, Jeff. Since they are single coil pickups, they suffer from the same problems that other single coil pickups (like Series I/II) suffer. It's not to change the tone or to add functionality, it's to remove directional and high frequency noise from the system. So this one will sound the same, but in high noise situations, it will be quieter.
The peg had been a real problem. Again, I'm glad you were happy with the peg on the your Classico, Jeff. We were not, and some other Classico owners were not. It wasn't adjustable except in 1.5 increments. It was sometimes difficult to push the little tabs in to release the lock. It sometimes got cocked so it took a good bit of jossling to right. It sometimes rattled inside the bass if it wasn't extended more that it was retracted. The new design is completed for the peg. We're just trying to decide where to place the control for the continuous adjustment.
As far as the building, when that gears up again, and it will in the very near future, Kris will be making it, and he is the one who taught Chip and others how to make Classicos.
Austin, you have done nothing to impede the progress of this instrument. I repeat that I'm sorry for the long delay in updates and progress.
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Thanks, Mica.
I really didn't mean to sound negative here, I'm just a little impatient. Of course I appreciate all of the work that everyone puts into these things, and I understand that with Alembic being the family company that it is, certain things can come up and take priority. Thanks for clarifying, and I can't wait to see what you guys have come up with.
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Thanks as usual, Austin for your kindness. I appreciate your response so much.
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Flax,
Yeah, four years is a long time, even for a custom instrument. As I said, the frustration at times was unbearable. I don't think that I said that it's a normal wait time, though. I also think you rightly point out that some things, at least to us, shouldn't take all that long. However, as Mica points out there are things that impact production that are out of our sight. This doesn't excuse it, mind you, merely explains it. Whether an individual is patient enough to wait that long is, of course, an individual decision.
And yes, I waited four years for mine. Actually, four years, 3 days, and 15 hours! But whose counting? ;-) The good news is I have the only near-replica of John Entwistle's Alembic in the world that is not in a museum or in private collections. Talk about bragging rights!
Alan
P.S. As far as I know, it took Alembic three years to make Entwistle's Exploiters.
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alan, if waiting for 4 yrs to have bragging rights( who it might impress is another q) makes you happy- i'm glad 4 ya
i dont think austins interested in anything other than getting his little mittens on his investment
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Flax,
I didn't wait four years for bragging rights - they just came with the instrument. What I did wait four years for was to get the instrument of my dreams (which it is to me). And I think I can say with confidence that everyone I've shown the instrument to (and who's heard it) it was mightily impressed indeed. At a music store near Burlington, folks were coming up and taking pictures of it with their cellphones.
I can't speak for Austin, but I surmise he is as anxious as I was to get my bass. Can't blame him at all having been there myself. Here's to hoping it will be in his hands soon.
Alan
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Maybe the next tread should be how much time in total did you wait for customs? Let's see thats 8 builds and 2 refinishes... carry the 2...... oh never mind.
Austin, though I've never gone as long as 4 years on a single build, I offer my hopes and energies to you. May the final product be all what you have envisioned and more . Like the pain of child birth (so I'm told), wait has no memory. May you make beautiful and inspiring music while you wait. And when it does arrive the appreciation and envy of the group here will be felt like a disturbance in the force! Oh the Jedi's are gonna feel this one.
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Personalty, I believe the whole matter is completely private, and between Alembic, and their customer(s).
However from the bumping -- it's as if, members who participated, had a stake in the progress of the bass.
Excuse me, but just how many people purchased this bass anyway?
If there's only one buyer, then for the rest of us, Mica is not required to explain anything.
Here's a story on flaws...
A little boy asked his father:
Father, why didn't GOD make us perfect?
The Father smiled and told his son:
Son, that's very a wise question you asked, and I simple a answer...
My Son, GOD didn't make us perfect as a preventative means and measure from us worshiping ourselves, and/or other human being(s) or objects.
The Son looked at his father in a confused, but in a un-trusting way and said:
How do you know?
The Father looked at his Son, and said:
It's just my flawed opinion and the Son smiled.
THE END-
Peace and Love...
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....
bump.
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it's as if, members who participated, had a stake in the progress of the bass.
Hal. I like to think of this forum as my extended family and it's only right that, as family members, we show an interest in what's happening to our brothers and sisters whether it's good or bad. That's why Peter (cozmic cowboy) got so many good wishes when he announced his recent illness and why the paul Lindeman threads attracted so much sympathy. As family members, of course we get excited when one of us gets his or her bass and naturally we'll express surprise if it takes a long time. (my wife expressed more than surprise when I told her how much each of mine cost but that's another story altogether).
I also believe it's a good thing for Mica to explain why there may be delays in a build. Apart from anything else, it will help prospective customers decide whether or not they want to wait the extra time for their 'dream instrument' or go for fewer custom options to have the instrument sooner.
And remember - this is just MY flawed opinion ;-)
Graeme
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Woody, my Custom Further took around 2.5 years. At least one of those years was just to figure out how to inlay This Machine Surrounds Hate and Sings It Into Submission around the peace medallion below the tailpiece. One might think it shouldn't take a year to inlay nine words! I was fortunate enough to live near Alembic, and regularly find myself in Santa Rosa, so I could drop in and keep track of the progress. I saw them attempting several different methods before finally figuring out the method that worked the best. Though this took an excruciating length of time (or so it seemed to me at the time), I am now grateful that they took the time to get it right. Many (if not most) companies would have just told me up front No, we can't or won't do that. Alembic accepted the challenge. They kept at it until they got it right and I received something that I wanted. In my current perspective, I'm glad it took a little longer than if I had received my guitar a year earlier, but with lettering that didn't meet my expectations. There's only a handful of people working up there - they can't make progress on all ordered instruments at the same time. I suspect, the more unusual the project, the more time it is likely to take. Remember, while Ron is working to redesign the electronics, or Chris is experimenting with new peg designs, they aren't working on other projects. Hey, I used to wait a long time in line to see the Dead too. But the best things are worth waiting for. Happy New Year, everyone, and good luck Austin in receiving your finished Classsico when Classico time arrives..
Bill, tgo
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someone should cut hal's fingers off
alan i was only goofing- my bad
i've had people come up and do the same with scarlet and wolf= its cool and very gratifying
of course if we sounded like poop they'd probably not come over
AND
usually the first or second sentence is????
HOW MUCH DID THAT COST?......
i usually say 2000 or none of your business
like i would tell a stranger my axe cost 9,000 app
i wouldnt even tell what i paid in here-lmao
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Flax,
No worries - figured it was all in good fun.
The second sentence I normally get is it cost how much? after I tell them the first time. I tell them how much, but, of course, I don't tell them where I live!
Alan
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I just think it's great they are making progress, even if it's in the background.
Oh, and Happy New Year to all!
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houston
this is classico 06- we have traction
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bump
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this isnt my idea of traction austin,,,,,,
shame on mgt!!!!!!
BOO!
FEH!
FACOCT!
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eh, i wasn't really expecting any immediate progress. whatever. it's been 4 years, i'm not gonna throw a hissy fit over another couple of months.
bump.
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boy this project really has gotten some traction.....
4years later and only a neck...
this is without a doubt the biggest hose job in alembic's history.....
for someone from alembic to send ME an email blaming ME for causing a :headache: when they've basically ran out of bull---- answers as to why they never delivered anything other than a photo of the neck- is despicable.
you can take the position of some who say 'its a custom- it takes time-blah blah blah.... snap out of the coma- if they wanted to make this it would have been done years ago....
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If it was me in this situation, I would probably be ready to chew nails. However, this is Austin's custom, and IMHO, it seems like this sort of thing should really be between Alembic and him. I'm guessing at this point he is plenty frustrated, and doesn't need anyone to get angry on his behalf. Just my two cents.
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mellow bump
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.....
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We're expecting the metal parts for the improved peg to arrive in the next week or two.
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did you get the parts yet, mica?
(Message edited by darkstar01 on June 02, 2010)
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now thats what i call progress.....
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If the opposite of pro is con, then it stands to reason that the opposite of progress is congress!
hehehehe
Bill, tgo
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Ditched the metal parts idea, actually. Carbon parts are to arrive in about 10 days. I know you will be excited to see them - not only will it shave a good deal of weight off, but it looks much better and operates with MUCH more ease. Once that puppy's here, your bass will really start movin' - plus, I convinced my mom to make another one for our showroom at the same time since we are currently without one.
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so what parts exactly are you expecting, mica? all of the end pin pieces (pin, adjustment parts, etc), or something else? just curious.
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It's the telescoping end pin and some of the adjustment parts. Since these are embedded inside the body, we've completed everything that can be done until these are installed.
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I am excited to see what this will look like when done. The sound will surely be superb.
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great lets see some photos then~
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Got the components, they look and function great!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/82091.jpg)
We're probably going to use a different tip, but we're not totally decided on that yet (won't be anything that holds up other decisions).
I'm hoping to have the detailed cleared up in the next week or two so that the body can get assembled around the new peg.
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so.... seen any good movies lately?
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looks like the leg of a tripod to me
good grief charlie brown!
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Anything? Please? Maybe? Creepin' up on 5 years here.
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Well..... BUMPs worked before (kind of).
BUMP.
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It's the leg of a monopod actually, and it's something I discussed with Austin before. The first type of monopod didn't work out. Well, it's works great as a monopod, but didn't make a great Classico support since it wanted to rattle something fierce. We tried brass fitting and a completely removable peg in our test Classico mockup:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/84586.jpg)
and the brass fittings:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/84587.jpg)
But that seemed even over designed (plus the brass nut hanging out the bottom wasn't terribly attractive, though we had some nice polishing and embellishing in store for it). So now we're decided on the graphite peg permanently affixed inside with a removable telescoping section. In the unlikely event telescoping part breaks, it's easily serviceable. I also pulled out the top wood we reserved for you. We inked your original request way back when:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/84588.jpg)
and I flipped it around to catch some of the other character:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/84589.jpg)
Would have to move the template up to miss the crack I marked, but at least you can see the template in scale with each direction and be able to make your choice with a picture reference. Kris and I started pawing through the large Coco Bolo planks today just to make sure nothing else is hanging out there that would be even better for your bass. Should be finished with that task tomorrow. In a matter of days the wood and glue will be flying all over this project, and I will be taking many photos for you. I'll post a wood report by Friday so we know from what we have to choose.
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I guess bumping really works!!
That is going to be a nice top, Austin!
Greg
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So what's the timeline on the pin being finished?
And I still like the first outline, that oval-ish grain fits the body nicely.
Thanks mica!
Oh, and never underestimate the power of the Bump, Greg.
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I can't wait to see the progress on this- been holding my breath and looking forward to it for a long time now. Very happy to see that things are rolling forward and sawdust is in the immediate future.
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The pin is totally done. So now there are some actual wooden artifacts for this build:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/85040.jpg)
The Mahogany body - well, half of it anyway (the rest is at the bottom of the stack, obscured from view).
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/85041.jpg)
Accent laminate packs. There's a stack of 4 sheets, each with three veneers.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/85042.jpg)
Super closeup of the accent lams: Maple, Vermilion, Maple. Finished looking through the big stack of Coco Bolo last week. One other contender is getting sliced up this week. I'll show it off if it proves to be even more exciting than the original top.
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That's an impressive piece of wood.
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I honestly don't remember vermilion being involved, but I'm into it. Thanks Mica!
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It's usually Maple and Walnut on the Maple topped Classico. Accent laminates gotta accent, so they do change depending on the top wood. Glad you like it!
-
Beautiful progress. The power of the bump indeed. I'm happy to see the beauty of this thing come together.
-
Very nice.
-
The body rest is under construction simultaneously:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/85139.jpg)
More to come!
-
just out of curiosity, will the body rest have a coco bolo laminate as well?
-
Yes, the decorative veneer on the body rest coordinates with the top laminate of the bass.
And speaking of the top laminate to the bass, after much pawing, we found another candidate to offer:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/85378.jpg)
Whaddayathink?
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wow. that's a beautiful piece of wood. I think I like the way the grain fits the body on the first one, though. how bout you just make me a 6 string series II out of that new one
-
Wow! It looks like a giant butterfly....
-
OK, that one gots to go on a Classico - how could you ever choose what part of that grain to leave off a smaller instrument?!?!? Though if someone wants to front me $20-30K, I guess I'd be willing to try........
Peter
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how bout you just make me a 6 string series II out of that new one
or you could use it for a back laminate!!!!!
-
I see a Tribute, complete with the bat wing horns.
Bill, tgo
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This is just before Kris glued the top to the body:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/86307.jpg)
It's now in the glue press, and it will remain there probably until Next week, when Kris will be ready to do the next part.
-
nice. thanks mica!
-
Cheers!
-
That is sure gonna be one dramatic looking bass with that slab of CB on the top.
jazzyvee
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More good news! Here's your bass in the big clamps:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87246.jpg)
And out of the big clamps, with some rough shaping:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87247.jpg)
There's that little stripe of Vermilion:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87248.jpg)
Plus some scraps I found that must surely be from your bass:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87249.jpg)
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oh man. there we go.
thanks mica!
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WOW, that is getting each time more beautifull!
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Wow... after the wait, that first picture of an assembled and shaped body would bring a tear to my eye. Heck, when I saw it I got a bit choked up!
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I don't know... I don't like the color of the end pin. You should start over. LOL
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That is friggin awesome!
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Those scraps would make excellent boxes. I love your choices. Can't wait to see the rest!
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i gotta give mica all the credit on the vermilion accents. looks great. can't wait to see her get hit with some varnish (uhh... the bass, not mica).
-
Very nice, This will really be Awesome when done .______ I wonder if there has ever been a 34 inch scale version of an Alembic bass with this kind of Violin shape ? I have wondered that before. Kind of like a Gibson EB-1 shape but built Alembic style with a neck through design with Series Electronics . You could wear it on a strap . Fretless as well ____ Anybody know ? HMMMMMM____
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Interesting idea sonicus that would look so cool a bit like an Alembic Beatle bass. :-)
Jazzyvee
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Yes Jazzyvee, Thanks ____ That would be right .
-
Wolf, I was thinking that as well... A double omega, no horns bass... That will look cool!
I like how one of a sudden, pictures are flooding this thread! It's on it way Austin!!! And it is going to be jaw-dropping, that's for sure!
Greg
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There really aren't enough words to describe how fabulous that is.
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i would actually love to hear how this one sounds!! what a bass!
-
Look who's in carving:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87657.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87658.jpg)
Tailpiece rough shaped:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87659.jpg)
And test fitting the fingerboard:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87660.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/87661.jpg)
The fingerboard won't get glued on until the end of finish. Maybe I'll be about to post some with sealer coats as soon as next week
-
Outstanding!! I love that headstock shot- cool seeing the laminates run through.
Very happy for you Austin. I know the wait has been painful, but I'd imagine these photos put a smile to your face!
-
WOW!!!
-
Pretty impressive instrument!
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YES !!!!! I love it _____
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Featured Custom Jan 2011......???
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Serial, that's what I was thinking. Gotta be a featured custom.
-
That fingerboard is one beautiful piece of wood! I got to play a Classico at the factory once and while I can't play an upright to save my life, it was a great experience. This one is going to be a stunner!
-
-
Early stages of the body rest:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/89123.jpg)
and with turned Coco Bolo pegs:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/89124.jpg)
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thanks mica. i've never seen coco bolo used in any way other than tops and boards, so it's cool to see the round pieces like that. any idea when the finish is gonna start hitting this thing?
-
Right about... NOW
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/90153.jpg)
Still needs lots more finish, but you can see that Coco Bolo grain just POP now. Woo hoo!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/90154.jpg)
This is the contraption that holds the Classico while it's drying between coats.
-
That's amazing!
-
Wow, good to see it's gotten this far after such a long wait.
-
any updates, mica?
thanks.
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I saw your beautiful Classico when I visited the factory on Jan 3rd. It's nothing short of breathtaking. I believe it is still in the finishing stages.
-
yeah i was kind of assuming it was. i'm guessing the whole finish process will take longer than on the other basses/guitars. thanks, brian.
-
Still has a little time left in finish, and it just gets prettier and prettier every day!
-
any updates?
-
Austin:
I stopped by the mothership this morning on my way back from court in Santa Rosa. Saw your Classico. Absolutely gorgeous!
Bill, tgo
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bump..............
-
oh dear...
-
OK....stupid question...I keep seeing the word bump used on the forum, what does that mean???
-
Nevermind, I just read this entire post from the beginning & am now fully schooled in bumping! WOW! What a build! I'm sure it will be worth every second of the wait when you get it Austin! I waited 49 years to get my dream Alembic! I'm visiting the factory in June, if your bass is still there I'll take pictures for you!
-
When I win the lottery I am going to get a Classico, I cannot play d-bass to save my life but wouldn't it look great as a piece of furniture, a great talking point when people come around for drinks.
THAT is one seriously nice piece of woodcraft.
-
one of my favorite songs: Aint gon BUMP no more with no big fat women by Joe Tex
-
Say hi to my Further while you're there Rusty :-)
http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/94032.html?1295373609 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=7200)
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Will do Patrick! That is going to be one beautiful guitar when it's done! I love the pattern in the Coco Bolo!! My SC is Coco Bolo too, the pictures really do not begin to do this wood justice! I was literally speechless when I opened the case the 1st time! All I could say was Oh my God...Oh my God!!! http://club.alembic.com/Images/411/97845.html?1299023458 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=8684)
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As of today, I'm feeling pretty confident about a mid-May birthday for this beauty.
-
I can't wait to see this one done! This has to be one of the COTM in the coming months. Breath deep, Austin.
Regards,
Pete
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So... Bump!
-
my favorite dance was the Bump
-
Mid-may isn't quite here. Dad is working on Neil's guitar, then Austin's bass is next in line. So it might be a touch longer than mid-May, but just a touch.
-
I don't want to wish a wait on anyone, but I would love to see this beautiful instrument in June when I tour the factory!
-
I walked into the rubout room and it looked like we were being very mean to your bass:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/106145.jpg)
It's all strapped down! Then I realized we were being very nice to your bass:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/106146.jpg)
I can't peek while it's wet, but I plan on coming on over the weekend, and I will snap a picture of the little present we put on your peghead.
-
ooo a present. sounds fun.
-
Am I seeing next featured custom?
(Message edited by mario farufyno on June 05, 2011)
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i just read through this entire thread.
that was a bad idea.
any updates, mica?
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hey mica,
i just sent you an email with a question about the classico, and also about a totally unrelated potential custom. let me know if you got it!
thanks!!
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You already know I got your email, but since there are others interested in this thread, I'm updating here too.
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thanks mica. by the way, I sent you another email.
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Still looking to see what's under the cone?!!
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Still looking to see what's under the cone?!!
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I think you can see in Rusty's report in the Misc section, Jay.
I found some information about the pickups, Austin, but I need to talk to Roland about the spacing constraints. Will let you know as soon as I know something!
-
http://club.alembic.com/Images/449/108386.html?1310096545 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=17599)
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Very nice addition!
-
sounds good mica.
by the way, guys, sounds like there's gonna be chrome tuners on the Classico. in case you were interested.
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This must be a featured custom! It's been a long time coming and this thread has gotten so much attention! I can't wait.
-
hey mica
sent you an email, just so you know.
-
any updates, mica?
-
Completely crazy ...
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Indeed there is! Missed the message from the 20th here, sorry. Your bass is one or two away from full attention in the setup department. So not much longer now.
When we were ready to spray the last coat of finish, we were getting down to near the bottom of the paint supply, and Bob wanted to wait until the new shipment arrived since it's less fussy when it's brand spankin' new. The spraying went very well I'm glad to say!
-
Oh! And a peek at what was under that cone:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/111987.jpg)
As if you couldn't guess already.
-
thanks mica! anything on the other bass? not to hijack my own thread or anything.
-
Oh yeah don't you dare! Well, too late I guess.
Actually, look for an email tomorrow from me. I had to work really hard on that control layout to cram everything in there.
I suppose I should start a regular ol' thread for it in the morning too. I shall!
-
That logo is so beautiful , this Bass is just so awesome !
I can't wait for the ARCO sound report !
-
awesome. thanks again, mica.
i don't play a whole lot of arco, sonicus.. but i'm really curious about that, too. maybe i'll have to get a classical musician friend to record some stuff on it.
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Cool, I was never happy with my own ARCO technique when I had a Double Bass but I enjoy hearing it . Thanks , I wish endless happiness for you and this awesome instrument when you both finally meet in person .
-
this thing being close is apparently making me anxious....
any updates?
-
Anxious here too! We've been waiting for the silly tuners to get here, and they arrived today! Could not get chrome ones (everyone is backordered!), so we got the black finish and I think it will look so sexy with the Ebony fingerboard and the Coco Bolo top. Saweeet! We have a gold set on special order, but we don't know when they will ever arrive. But I sorta like the idea of the black ones now. Anyway, if you decide you want the gold ones, I'll send them to you whenever they get here.
James is finishing up an inlay now, and then I understand it's all Classico all the time until it's ready to pack in the enormous box.
-
Austin, make sure you take pictures of you unboxing your bass when you get it & post them on here so we can all share in your enjoyment when you get to touch this magnificant instrument for the first time!
-
Black tuners sound cool to me, Mica.
I was already planning on making a video of me opening it, rusty. can't wait.
-
This is a Blockbuster 5 years in the making worthy of a Red Carpet Hollywood Premier!
-
Rubbing and rubbing
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/113220.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/113221.jpg)
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hey mica,
just wondering if you got my email about the inlay.
thanks!!
-
I did, thanks!
Sorry, but we had to send your bass back to finish, but it got the extra coat it needed and should get to do the rub out again next week.
-
sounds good, mica. anything on the other bass?
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Successful rubout!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/115270.jpg)
It's glowingly beautiful.
Next week, the setup. Will keep you posted!
Starting a thread for the 6-string.
-
BEAUTIFUL ! _________( one word !)
-
I saw it at the shop on Monday, but Mica beat me to posting a picture. It is gorgeous in person.
-Jon
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oh man. getting close.
thanks mica!!!
-
anything new?
-
Tailpiece getting fitted here:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/117025.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/117026.jpg)
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Strings now!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/118046.jpg)
Fitting the pickup next week. There's some stuff hanging off the bridge, but I was so happy I could walk up to it and pluck on a string tonight.
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Wow! That is cool. Congrats..
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That's astonishing.
-
awesome. so is a christmas-ish arrival at all reasonable for this?
can't wait.
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Wow, that looks like it was worth the wait.
-
sooooo anything new?
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Yeah, thought the pickup would be fitted, but what I thought was your pickup was the master, so in the meantime since my last post, the actual pickup for your bass was crafted and oil finished. Pickup should be mounted any day now. I'm pretty sure that's the very last thing other than boxing it up.
-
Sounds good mica. Let me know when it gets closer to being ready to ship. Just want to make sure you have the right address and everything. Hopefully we can make the process of getting this thing all the way across the country as painless as possible.
-
The pickups are now fitted, and just about ready to load up the electronics.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/123864.jpg)
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SO nice !
-
Are we there yet? :-)
-
anything new here?
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Dad got the preamp happy (it was very mean to him!) and it's getting installed now. I think we might actually be done this week and shipping next week. Fingers crossed!
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It sounds amazing!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/134196.jpg)
This is a crummy picture sorry.
Getting things together so that it can ship next week. Will coordinate arrival details by email.
-
WOW___WOW___WOW _
Just completely gorgeously beautiful _! I hope to hear it some day _____
Congratulations
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I think it's a wonderful picture; and the bass is absolutely beautiful!
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wow. not much else to say at this point.
just so you know, mica, I changed my email address recently. the one in my profile is my current one.
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Hallelujah!! Boy, that looks stunning.
-
Very cool! Congrats...
-
Just LOVE that bass. Been a long time in the making, but will be worth every single second of the time it took to give it life!!
Let's hear it sometime!!
-
Austin, your perseverance has paid off BIG TIME!!! What an incredible instrument!!! Congratulations!
-
thanks guys. i can't wait.
is shipping this week still a possibility, mica?
-
Um, nope. But we did get the box made! We are regrouping for next week. I will email your address in the profile to coordinate the exact arrival date.
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hey mica, i've sent you a few emails but haven't heard back. anything new?
-
Photographing this bass has been a huge challenge. I managed to get this one:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/136675.jpg)
which I like, but it still doesn't compare. After over almost 200 images, rearranging furniture and drafting many helpers, I had to give it to Mary so she could get it in the big box. Our plan is Monday leaving, that puts it to you on Thursday, is that a good day to receive?
-
Such a spectacular sight !!!!!!!!!
-
Thursday should be cool. I'm out of town until the following Monday or so, but my roommates are there and I can easily have it arranged to be couriered to my studio where it will be safe and sound until I can get to it.
let me know if everything is okay!
-
August 2012 featured Custom ???...
-
Gets my vote.
-
Playmate of the Year!!!
-
Gets my vote as well . I also love the artwork in the background ! Both are Beautiful !
-
Mica is right (of course). The pictures don't do it justice.
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wowww... long time to release BUT it's a very nice instrument... FEATURED CUSTOM
-
I saw that bass on my factory tour this April. Although it was not complete at that time It looked very impressive.
Jazzyvee
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Agreed Aug Featured Custom !!
-
No arguments here! I would LOVE to hear what this masterpiece sounds like at some point.
-
Beautiful!
-
Unbelievably beautiful!
-
I want to play it.
Enjoy, good sir. You deserve 6 months off to do nothing but play that bass. You've waited a lifetime for it.
-
It should stay the featured custom for at least a year!
-
Mica, this photo is just perfect with that colourfull painting framing the bass. Nice match...
-
Inquiring minds want to know. Have you played it yet?
-
No, we are still hung up on shipping details
Tomorrow the whole shipping room will be torn up in an attempt to disprove the group hallucination of the case for this bass. We all saw it. Everyone. Then, it vanished. Meanwhile we're getting another one made tout-suite in case the case of the missing case is never solved. Disheartening for all, and especially Austin.
-
What a shambles! I would be extremely upset!
-
Maybe the case was shipped empty by mistake.
-
Anyone checked the local funeral parlours? A trip through the pearly gates in a custom-made Alembic box ... Temptation may have just been too great.
-
-
Seriously.
-
Sooo...... Anyone have a Classico case to spare?
-
I saw this at the shop yesterday - it really is a fantastic instrument. Mica mentioned they may have a lead on a case too. Can't be long now Austin.
Graeme
-
I have a feeling the case will show up this coming week.
-
Did Austin get his bass?
I so want to hear the wait was worth it.
Bones
-
Not yet....
-
Ouch.
-
I feel for you. At this point, someone should rent a van and drive it out to you for a personal delivery.
-
Wow.
-
This bass must be played. Where's a good teleporter when you need one.
-
this may be some kind of urban legend...
-
yeah.... i hope it's not.
(Message edited by darkstar01 on December 23, 2012)
-
anything?
~Taylor
-
might possibly be a case in the works. waiting to hear more.
-
I just emailed the case maker to see if it is ready yet.
-
I'm not sure if this helps or not darkstar, but I saw your bass while I was at the shop earlier this month and it is stunning. You've shown an extraordinary amount of patience, dare I say more than most people would, and it says a great deal about your character.
Soon...
-
So 9 months after completion are we still waiting on a case?
-
As far as I know, yes.
-
That's nothing short of awful.
Damn, man.
-
That's nothing short of awful.
Damn, man.
-
Your frustration is shared... It's enough to make me want to make cases! I've been through three manufacturers on this case now: one went out of business, one strung me along for a couple of months, one got really excited until he saw the drawings and freaked out, and finally one that as of last week was sewing and putting the exterior pockets on the case. So I'm quite hopeful that we will have a case to put this beautiful bass in and then ship it off to Austin.
-
I'm not much of a karma guy, but surely Austin must be storing up some serious credits in the Universal Karma system.
Kudos to Austin for staying positive and keeping the communications that are visible to the rest of us professional. It's been an incredibly long time, but Alembic is known for taking as long as it takes to get things 'right'. I know we all approve of that approach, even if it is painfully long (like it is in this case).
Hoping for a quick finish here, a safe shipping experience and smiles and expectations exceeded for Austin upon receiving this work of art.
-
Mica showed me this instrument in September when I visited and I can guarantee Austin will be over the moon when he gets it. It really is a work of art.
Graeme
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The case has shipped! We should receive it by next Wednesday. I'll make a full report once it's here.
-
Hurray!
-
I just tracked it - case is in Reno, NV today.
It's coming by FedEx ground. I guess they take a day longer than UPS, so it's not scheduled to be here until Thursday.
-
The case arrived today!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/156245.jpg)
It's a little big, but at least it's in a case. I'm going to send it in this case on Monday, and when I get the next case from them with some changes, I'll exchange cases with you Austin. At least this case covers up the bass, holds the accessories and is extremely well made.
-
Looks good to me. I'm assuming there's probably a giant crate that this is being shipped in, right? Just need to warn my building about the coffin that's on its way.
-
Yes, there is a ginormous box it comes in, and it does resemble the dimensions of a coffin, so make sure they are not alarmed!
-
Wow, what a nice little gigbag......
BTW I am dying to see the content finally......
Oliver (Spyderman)
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Happy for you, it was a looong wait
-
Hey, Oliver, if you scroll up & click Archive through August 01, 2012, you can get a glimpse or two.......
Peter
-
Peter,
many thanks for the hint.
Wow, that one is really gorgeous.
What do those Classicos weigh?
Greetz
Oliver (Spyderman)
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I'm hoping for an unboxing video on Youtube!
-
That is going to be one big shipping box.
Mica- any chance you can snap a picture of the shipping crate once it's all packed up and ready for the road? I'd like to see the size of that sucker!!
This image from A Christmas Story comes to mind
-
...and don't ship it with an integrator like UPS.
They base on a chargeable weight of 1:5....
Oliver (Spyderman)
-
Check out the size of this 3/4 size double bass case http://www.bluedanubeviolins.com/en/double-bass-cases.html (http://www.bluedanubeviolins.com/en/double-bass-cases.html)
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That's tiny. When I left for university to study bass, i took my bass in a giant fibreglass - or whatever drum cases are made of - coffin, big enough for Frankenstein. My residence roommate definitely drew a short straw. The thing took up almost all the floor space in the room.
-
Yes , My point ... ... ... I have seen those monster cases. The one above is liveable as far as size goes .A nice case it seems.
-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/156571.jpg)
-
-
Love it, John!
Peter
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Mica gave me a tracking number today. Should be here within the next week.
-
Awesome, congrats!
I find the case pic a bit offensive, I've never done anything wrong to it (as far as I can remember) :-)
Plz post many pics when she arrives!
-
I missed seeing it by 1 day.
-
I bet Mica is pleased to see it go. It sure took up a lot of space.
graeme
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Just thought I'd let everyone know the bass arrived in nyc safely on Monday. Going to have to work through a bit of an electronics problem, but otherwise.. all is well.
Here she is making some new friends:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/158480.jpg)
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electronics problem?!? that really sucks
~Taylor
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Wow, some serious gear around, am I seeing a Studer 2? Nice...
Hope you solve that electronic issue quickly.
-
yeah thats a studer 24 that i just acquired about 2 months ago.. i was in japan for a while so i just recently had it patched in to the system... know anywhere with a good price on tape? my band is planning on recording our next record on it soon... can't wait.
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Hawt. Good to see this finally living with you. I loves me a nice Studer. Fabulous machines.
What's the electronics issue?
-
Sorry to hear about the electronics gremlin, but pretty happy to see that beautiful instrument in your hands.
Other than the electronics issue- does it play as well/sound as well as you expected?