Alembic Guitars Club

Alembic products => Factory to Customer => Topic started by: mica on October 31, 2006, 05:11:45 PM

Title: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on October 31, 2006, 05:11:45 PM: Look! It's wood!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/32869.jpg)

These pencil lines are where Chip is mapping out all the pickups and controls, so we can get the interior plumbing done. You'll be seeing more photos real soon.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ox_junior on October 31, 2006, 05:36:07 PM: Mighty fine piece of walnut there! I'm sure Major Dover will be majorly happy!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on November 01, 2006, 07:00:42 AM: Alan,
I start to get jealous.... :-)
When it is done maybe I will place the next order?

Oliver
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 02, 2006, 12:27:16 AM: Hmmm .... I've seen that workbench before ....

Thanks for the pics Mica. It look's great already, and I know Chip is doing a great job. Can't wait to see it come together.

Hope your Mom is feeling better. Please extend my best wishes to her and everyone at Alembic.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 04, 2006, 08:51:11 AM: Oliver,

I should be the one to be jealous - you have your custom Dragon's Wing to be proud of!

Mike,

Yes, I'm majorly happy! I'll be Colonely happy when I get it!

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on November 09, 2006, 04:42:11 PM: More action in assembly recently! These won't be in this position for long:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33272.jpg)
Back view:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33273.jpg)
Front view:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33274.jpg)
Peghead with rough shape:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33275.jpg)
And Chip checking the postioning before gluing the neck to the body:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33276.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 10, 2006, 02:20:15 AM: Mica (and Chip!),

Looks awesome. It's shaping up exactly as I wanted it. Chip is doing his usual outstanding job (as is everyone), so please extend my thanks to Chip (and all).

Wanted to know if it's possible to do an amber tint as on Oliver B's Custom Dragon Wing. I really liked how that looked. If it's extra, let me know and I'll contact Beaver to discuss price.

Thanks again for the pics - it looks great and I can't wait to see more of my bass in construction.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on November 11, 2006, 03:40:53 AM: Alan,
it really looks gorgeous.
I am really eager to see the finished bass.

Oliver
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 11, 2006, 09:57:55 AM: Ollie,

We're both eager to see it! LOL!

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on November 14, 2006, 02:07:54 PM: The last picture was a dry fit, this is where it got wet with glue:

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/33412.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on December 26, 2006, 04:57:36 PM: It's been carved enough to be ready for routing:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/34658.jpg)

I think the custom program still needs to be written for routing, but that shouldn't be much of a delay.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 26, 2006, 08:12:33 PM: Mica,

Looks great. Before we go into routing, can we take one more look at the body shape? As you'll recall, we decided to make things a bit bigger in the event I didn't think the body shape was what I was looking for, and this will be a chance to make any changes if needed. As it stands now, I think the upper horn needs to be more parallel to the fingerboard (as you guys told me previously - I should have listened to the experts! :-)), and the headstock looks a bit wide from what I can tell from the picture above.

Anyway, looking good so far - can't wait to get my hands on it!

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on December 28, 2006, 07:12:37 PM: Here's the body straight on and a full-length view.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/34774.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/34775.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 28, 2006, 10:15:54 PM: Mica,

I think we need to flatten out the upper horn a bit so it's more parallel to the fingerboard. Again, this one's on me - I should have listened to your advice in the first place. I'll leave it to you guys as to how we go about it, e.g., pencil lines to show how much is going to be shaved, Photo Shop, etc.

Thanks again,

Alan

P.S. I damn near walked out of a place in Hong Dae yesterday with a coco bolo Stanley Clarke Deluxe - all $7K of it. I had to leave before I did it - my wife is visiting and I think she would have killed me!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on January 24, 2007, 06:33:25 AM: Mica,

Any news? No pressure, just curious. I know you guys are busy, and there's no hurry here.

Thanks,

Alan

P.S. My SC Signature Deluxe is awesome!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on January 24, 2007, 11:13:38 AM: Glad you're enjoying your SC! Here's a quick mock-up of the slight reshaping:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/35593.jpg)
This just shows the approximate amount shaved off and the main angle. I want to keep the upper horn the same shape as it is now, with the curve as pointed out here:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/35594.jpg)
The actual carving will look slightly different (better that is!), but at least you can give me the go-ahead that we're on the right track before the wood has been transformed into dust.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mtnst8 on January 24, 2007, 11:19:08 AM: Wow, Alan! That is a beautiful top. Looks like raindrops in a pond. Love it. This has been a fun one to watch.

Brad
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 03, 2007, 03:05:19 AM: Mica,

As the Super Bowl is only two days away ...

After further review, I think what we have now is closer to the body style I'm after. I compared pictures of Entwistle's Spyder, the body shape my bass has now, and the body shape with some of the upper horn shaved off. I think what we have right now is just about right. And I agree on the curve of the upper horn; John's basses had even more of a curve there from what I can tell.

Bottom line - let's go with what we have now. Sorry for causing so much trouble, wasn't my intent at all. Also sorry I didn't get back to you sooner - I've been at Osan Air Base the past week, and had spotty access to the net.

Can't wait to see more. It will be the bass of my dreams I'm sure.

Thanks,

Alan

P.S. I love my SC! What a bass!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 03, 2007, 03:09:26 AM: Brad,

Drops in a Pond - hmm, maybe the title for a Custom of the Month? It is a beautiful top. I had the opportunity to talk it over with Chip when I was out there in August of last year, and he did a fabulous job in choosing the wood. I don't think I could have done a better job myself. I love maple tops of all stripes - flame, quilt, bird's eye, etc., and this is a beauty in my view. I also like coco bolo - my DW and my SC are beautiful examples of this wood.

And trust me, this has been fun for me to watch as well!

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: 811952 on February 05, 2007, 12:45:31 PM: Alan, that's a beautiful bass!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on March 04, 2007, 05:30:53 AM: Mica,

Any new developments? Not pestering, just curious.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on March 30, 2007, 10:38:18 AM: Mica,

Update, please, if you will/can?

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on March 30, 2007, 10:44:47 AM: Hi Alan,

Your post #463 says to go with what we have now but I'm not sure if you mean the way the bass appears now, in post #3918 or my mock up in post #4025. With this clarification, we can get the rest of the carivng completed.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on March 30, 2007, 09:42:12 PM: Mica,

I meant go with what is shown in post 3918. My mistake, and sorry for the confusion.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on April 20, 2007, 03:33:24 AM: Mica,

Any news? I know you guys are busy, so if there's no news, that's cool.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on April 20, 2007, 06:55:48 PM: Yes, the carving is now completed and Bob has finished the routing program. This should get on the router next week and into spray. I'll send another photo when the routing is done.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on April 21, 2007, 12:04:38 AM: Mica,

Thanks, appreciate the update. I know you must be busier than a one-armed paperhanger now that Val has moved on.

Can't wait to see it.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on May 18, 2007, 04:37:24 PM: The routing program is done, but we haven'trouted yet. Here's the front routing sketched directly on the bass:

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/39944.jpg)

This has the pickups positioned very similarly to the one in the Sotheby's auction. Some of the earlier versions of this bass has the neck pickup a little closer to the end of the fingerboard. Let me know which you prefer.

If we put the neck pickup closer to the end of the fingerboard, it will have a bassier tone. We'll also spread out the humx pickup too, so the spacing between the three pickups will be equal.

Only one chance to get it the way you want it, so we're checking each step of the way to get it just right.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on May 18, 2007, 07:35:08 PM: Mica,

Can you tell me how far it is in inches from the end of the fretboard to the edge of the neck pickup? That will tell me if there is enough space between them for me. Though it's not my strongest technique, I do a little slapping and popping every now and then and need a little room. Just want to make sure there's enough for that.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on May 23, 2007, 07:31:17 PM: You're looking at 1.5 inches in the above picture. That's a good amount of room, but the pickup can be moved either direction very easily.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on November 26, 2009, 07:45:39 AM: That is a great pic !
Thanks.
Wolf .
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: andbassforall on November 26, 2009, 01:13:33 PM: Alan, it's been a long patient wait for you. I'm sure it will be worth every note you thump on it. Enjoy and play. It's a beautiful bass.

Mike
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 27, 2009, 09:30:03 AM: Alan, you are truly an inspiration.

Let me know when you come out with your book signing dude.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: lbpesq on November 27, 2009, 10:04:18 AM: Wolf:

I was also at the Dead/Who show back in '76. Oh, the memories!

Bill, tgo
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on November 27, 2009, 11:15:14 AM: Hi Bill_____ I remember I was in Bass Bliss Land at the time , so to speak with both Phil Lesh and John Entwistle at the same show! Yes , THE
memories! I was 20 years old. I remember trying to get as close to the Bass cabinets as possible to feel the Bass and to watch and compare their playing techniques. I remember Jerry playing awesome that day too! He had Fire !
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on December 03, 2009, 05:42:17 PM: After ironing out the last few kinks, the bass is on its journey to Alan at long last. Here she is in a brief repose before hopping gleefully into the case:

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73530.jpg)

She's a tone monster. I know you're going to be amazed when you play it.

Enjoy!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on December 03, 2009, 05:55:38 PM: Yet another 'WORK OF ART __________incredible. SOOOOO nice !
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 03, 2009, 06:30:38 PM: That is a
complicated,
simplistic,
web-romantic,
neo-classic,
Who inspired,
Two-year desire,
with knobs for flying,
beautiful addition
for Alan's collection.

Alan I am very happy for you Sir, and I salute you for such a treasure.

I will remember this bass, most importantly, I will remember the owner.

That is one beautiful bass.

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 03, 2009)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: qualloyd on December 03, 2009, 08:33:23 PM: BRAVO!!!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on December 05, 2009, 03:45:06 AM: Alan,
cool...
Am eager to see more pics when you have the beauty....
Take care
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: gregduboc on December 05, 2009, 05:00:27 AM: I think this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-2tE0zDeFg) express my feelings better.
Congratulations Alan!!

Greg
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: artswork99 on December 06, 2009, 07:57:24 AM: This is one fine bass for sure!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 07, 2009, 08:18:16 AM: All,

I received my bass today.

Words fail me at this point, but I'll do my best to describe her. If I had to sum it up, I'd simply say absolute perfection.

As a previous Spyder Limited Edition owner, I note big differences between my bass and that one. I'll list them separately.

Body - huge difference. Entwistle's basses were more pinched at the waist, and it's got a huge impact on comfort when seating and standing. It's not that the Spyder is uncomfortable, far from it. It's just that this bass is more comfortable to me. The position of the upper horn where it joins the neck is the most notable difference. With the Spyder, my arm was almost fully extended to reach first position. With my bass, it's nowhere near like that and far more comfortable (to me at least). And the wood backplates significantly lower the weight - anyone pondering a bass like this should seriously consider wood backplates. They make the instrument significantly lighter.

Neck - Another huge difference. I spec'ed out a Jazz Bass like neck, and this one is perfect for me. The Spyder's neck is certainly wider at the nut, which is OK if you like that kind of thing. I grew up playing Rickenbackers and Jazz Basses, so wider necks aren't my thing. Access to the 24th fret is perfect as well, sitting or standing.

Electronics - They're Series II, which blows away the electronics in any of my other Alembics (and they're no slouches either - that's why I own them). The CVQ is a must if you ask me. Control positions are exactly where I wanted them and they are completely comfortable and easy for me to use. And now I know why Entwistle had two master volumes on the lower horn - it really does make it easy to make volume changes without having to lug around a volume pedal. I love this feature.

Fit and Finish - perfection. Absolute perfection. I could not find a single flaw with this instrument. The inlays alone are a thing of beauty.

Yes, it took a long time to build. Yes, I got frustrated waiting. But as many have said before me and will say after me, it was worth every minute of the wait. Perfection doesn't come easily nor fast ... but when it does, it truly is a thing to behold. I now have the bass of my dreams. My very humble thanks to Mica, Ron, Susan, everyone at Alembic, Oliver Baumann, Beaver Felton at Bass Central and everyone here at the club for helping me to make this dream come true.

Alan

P.S. I'll post pics shortly
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: FC Bass on December 07, 2009, 08:32:25 AM: All right! In Adam's words: GET DOWN!

Congrats!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on December 07, 2009, 08:33:08 AM: Congratulations ! I am sure that this may be an occasion that you will never forget .
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: keith_h on December 07, 2009, 10:03:03 AM: Al,
Congratulations. From your description the bass sounds spectacular.

Keith
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on December 07, 2009, 11:23:12 AM: Alan,
I am very happy that you received your baby finally.
Thanks for the kind words, I am proud that I could help you and Alembic out with some specs and details on Johns original basses.
But, I ask something from you:
when you ever decide to sell the bass, plse ask me first!!!
And... pictures pleaaaaasssssseeeeee
Take care my friend
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 08, 2009, 10:46:06 AM: Pics here:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=46751&id=1311546106&l=5a7cefa564 (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=46751&id=1311546106&l=5a7cefa564)

Anyone know how to resize photos using a Mac? I still can't figure it out (other than cropping, which I don't want to do).

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: FC Bass on December 08, 2009, 10:55:58 AM: Check, I'll resize 'em for you.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 08, 2009, 02:48:15 PM: Guys/Gals, As promised, here are some pics. Many thanks to Flip for resizing them for me. Al
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73808.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73809.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73810.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73811.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 08, 2009, 03:26:45 PM: One problem with this bass...

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 08, 2009)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 08, 2009, 03:30:36 PM: Uh oh ... ;-)

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 08, 2009, 03:43:33 PM: The only problem I have with this bass is...

1. It isn't mine, and
2. I wish I can play it.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 08, 2009, 03:52:15 PM: Whew ... for a minute there I thought I was in trouble! ;-)

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: cozmik_cowboy on December 08, 2009, 04:11:43 PM: Is the picture deceptive or is that a 7-pin jack? And if so, please expound on the subject.

Peter
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 08, 2009, 04:45:15 PM: I count 5 from Mica's picture. But, your right -- it does look like 7 pins. Probably all that shine and refection from the flash or the light.

But hey, if I am wrong -- I would like to know too.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 08, 2009, 04:51:08 PM: Five pins, guys.

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: lbpesq on December 08, 2009, 06:40:08 PM: Alan:

Congrats! She is, indeed, a beauty! If ever an Alembic were to sport seven pins, this would be the one! May you both make beautiful music together for many many years to come.

Bill, tgo
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: pauldo on December 08, 2009, 07:36:45 PM: That is one smokin' hot axe!
Rock it Alan!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 09, 2009, 03:23:01 AM: What!

not 7 or 8 pins, instead of a measly 5.
You mean to tell me it's got only five pins?
What is this world coming too?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: serialnumber12 on December 09, 2009, 05:35:24 AM: So this puppy has two master volumes? & what do the two mini toggles do? & is she chambered?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 09, 2009, 08:10:21 AM: Yes, she has two master volumes. One mini toggle (between the hat knobs on the lower horn) switches between the master volume - I can set one volume at one level, another at a lower level, and switch back and forth between them. The other mini toggle turns the LEDs on and off. Not chambered - there are enough backplates on her that chambering was not necessary (one plate for the lower horn, one for the batteries, one for the control cavity, and another for the hum adjustment).
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: 2400wattman on December 09, 2009, 10:08:08 AM: I was wondering what the controls on the lower horn did. Thanks for clearing that up and what a killer axe! All the best to you Alan.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: bigredbass on December 09, 2009, 11:12:17 PM: What an axe. I like the change to the body angles you spec'd. The really, sneaky custom bit that caught mey eye? The continuous wood truss rod cover, you dog!

It's really a very quiet satisfaction to have one built just like you wanted, and have it be JUST what you had in mind. While I was waiting, it hit me: I KNEW they'd get what I asked for, but what if I was wrong?!?!?!? Didn't happen, though. Whew . . . . .

Tickled for ya, AJD !

J o e y
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: David Houck on December 11, 2009, 05:35:42 PM: Amazing bass!!!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 11, 2009, 08:47:16 PM: Guys,

Thanks for all the congrats and props. It means a lot.

Alan

P.S. I can't wait to get a pic of moder Dave playing it at the next NC get together!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on December 11, 2009, 09:24:25 PM: Hey Alan, your 2 master volume control with the toggle switch gave me a wonderful idea.

With my two Mesa Boogie amps, I can configure and preset up to 6 different separate and independent channels (volume/tone/EQ)-- and with my foot switch, I can switch to any of the 6 channels on the fly.

Since the real estate of my Toma_Hawk is scarce, I had to be a little more creative with my foot.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 11, 2009, 09:54:43 PM: Hal,

It really wasn't my idea - it was the Ox's, but I can truly see the merit in what you're saying. You'd have the ability to set separate channels for volume/tone/eq, and then choose what you want based on the song/situation. Makes sense if that's what works for you. I'd be interested to see how you do with it.

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: olieoliver on December 17, 2009, 06:57:08 PM: Very cool Alan, congrats! Been a long and winding road... (hmm there's a song in there somewhere)...but she's a finally home!.

Great Bass Brother!.

OO
PS. How's the culinary skillz coming along?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: 2400wattman on December 17, 2009, 09:30:41 PM: yeh Al, how are those culinary skills? We'll need you to cook for the next gathering! hehe haha
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 20, 2009, 09:17:06 PM: Culinary skills - coming along nicely from what I know. I'm exceeding standards in nearly 90% of all my classes!

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: deanjohnson on March 07, 2010, 09:54:40 AM: Congrats on new Alembic! I am the lucky man who bought Alan's previous Spyder Limited (No. 7 of 50). Good 'ol 7 is cruising along just fine in the Midlands of South Carolina.

I hope (someday) to personally see you again, meet your new Alambic. I will be bringing my camera along!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on May 24, 2007, 01:51:03 AM: Mica,

Make it 1.75 inches (1 3/4) and we're there. That's what I have on my SC Sig Std and I like that a lot.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on May 30, 2007, 04:55:47 PM: I noted the pickup placement on the work order. 1.75 away from the fingerboard for the neck pickup, and we evened out the spacing between the rest.

Next photos will show the pickups and bridgeblock routing, and the main electronics cavity (no holes). The cavity on the horn will be hand routed after the CNC routing is completed.

Then we'll review the control placement, get those holes drilled and get this puppy back into carving.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on May 31, 2007, 01:11:11 AM: Mica,

Thanks, can't wait to see it.

If I recall, I think we discussed an amber tint a la Oliver's Dragon Wing on the bass when I was out there in August. Just wanted to make sure that's in the works. If it costs extra, let me know.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on May 31, 2007, 04:48:42 PM: Tint is noted on the work order.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on June 02, 2007, 12:33:49 AM: Mica,

Thanks, just didn't remember if I'd told you guys or not for sure.

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on July 03, 2007, 09:39:42 PM: Mica,

Any updates? If not, I understand.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 22, 2007, 12:55:07 PM: Mica,

Any updates? I called last week and was told it was awaiting inlays. If that is still the case, no reply is necessary.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on August 22, 2007, 01:20:54 PM: ....am eager to see some actual pics.....

Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: Bradley Young on August 22, 2007, 02:45:27 PM: Me three!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on September 05, 2007, 08:57:33 PM: Any news?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on September 06, 2007, 08:41:01 AM: Your bass is ready for the inlays, and the first ones to go in will be the silver webs. I've got to prepare the artwork for the note for note inlays yet, but James probably won't be needing it for at least a couple of weeks, so I'm not holding any work up (yet!). The plan is for James to put in a few hours a week on this inlay project until it's completed.

But since your bass has a good deal of the finish on it now, I'll make sure I take a picture for you before the end of the day. It looks really nice!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on September 06, 2007, 11:55:09 AM: Mica,

Thanks for the update, I appreciate it. Looking forward to the pix.

BTW, did you get the email I sent you reference my wife crafting something for you? Let me know if you're interested.

Thanks again,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on September 07, 2007, 07:05:52 PM: Hi Alan, Here's the pics of your bass with some finish in place:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/43821.jpg)
and up close to see some detail:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/43822.jpg)
There's a nice blend of quilt and bird's-eye figure. I did get your kind email, and I've been thinking about what would be good. I'll either call or email you in the next few days to talk about it more. Hope you have anice weekend!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on September 07, 2007, 08:54:14 PM: Mica,

Good God, that's incredibly beautiful, exceeding my expectations! Holy %&^$!!!!! It's exactly what I envisioned. Pickups are right where I want them too!

Let me know what Julie can make for you. Trust me, she'll love doing it!

Thanks again,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on September 08, 2007, 12:32:18 PM: Alan,
as I already said in a previous post: I am jealous....
Wow, this will be a great bass.
I am really eager to see it finished someday....

Take care my friend
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 07, 2007, 07:22:22 PM: Mica,

Any updates? If not I understand.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 03, 2007, 09:20:50 PM: Any news?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on December 07, 2007, 08:04:05 PM: I'm just mulling over the inlays now. Once I get to the part where I'm making decisions about the final forms, it's agonizing! You're very likely to see some mock ups toward the end of next week.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: flaxattack on December 07, 2007, 11:56:58 PM: that is one sweet piece of maple
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on December 10, 2007, 08:24:32 PM: Mica,

Thanks for the update. Looking forward to the mockups. Any idea on when my bass will be done?

Flax,

Yes, it is a nice piece of wood ... great blend of quilt and bird's eye. Chip picked it out and I agreed to it.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 13, 2008, 09:55:58 PM: Mica,

Any updates?

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 19, 2008, 03:13:33 PM: Alan, check your email for a file too large to post here. In the last month since we spoke, I've gotten a few things done on the project.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 19, 2008, 03:18:33 PM: Alan, check your email for a file too large to post here. In the last month since we spoke, I've gotten a few things done on the project.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 20, 2008, 10:34:17 AM: Mica,

I've sent a reply, and I've also asked Oliver B. for his advice as he's the most knowledgeable guy I know on JE and his Alembics. More to follow.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 20, 2008, 10:51:41 AM: I also sent Oliver an email yesterday - we're on the same page!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 20, 2008, 10:59:34 AM: Well, as they say, great minds think alike! ;-)

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on March 11, 2008, 08:57:27 PM: Mica,

Any news?

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on March 11, 2008, 09:18:26 PM: Hi Alan,

I've spent a good deal of time on the project and artwork since our last emails and initial mock up a in mid-Feb. Oliver sent me some better pictures than I had, and confirmed the sharps and flats were really there!

Then, I found a photocopy of the actual inlays in the bass. We didn't take a picture, but the strings were loosened and the bass was placed right on the glass of the old Xerox to get some images. These were really great to get some of the details.

What I found was the inlays were not up to the standards that we have now. Even Oliver agrees that especially the sharp symbols were pretty poorly done. This won't be true for yours!

I think you'll see a full mockup by the 28th. One thing I haven't heard back from you - do you want the joke note replicated, or do you want all the proper notes in their proper places?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: briant on March 11, 2008, 09:43:19 PM: This is exciting. I can't wait to see this!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on April 14, 2008, 07:59:05 PM: Mica,

Any news?

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on April 15, 2008, 06:10:47 PM: The post-op care took a little more attention than I thought, so dreams of working on custom inlays during that time didn't materialize. I'm probably not going to get to dedicate time to the final drawings until next week. I found some photocopies of one of the basses with the notes. We detuned the bass, and put the thing right on the photocopier! Answered all my nagging questions, so I think you'll be really happy with the result.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on April 16, 2008, 10:57:21 AM: Mica,

Thanks, I can't wait to see it.

Hope all is well on the home front, and as usual, that takes precedence over everything. Best wishes from Julie and I.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: kmh364 on April 24, 2008, 05:18:44 AM: Maj. D.,

That's a real beaut! Lot's o'luck with it.

Cheers,

Kevin
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on June 20, 2008, 09:50:33 PM: Mica,

Any news?

Alan

P.S. I love your picture on the staff section of the site. Captures the essence of who you are - a bright smile, personality, etc. as evidenced when I visited a while back.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on July 10, 2008, 09:26:49 PM: (Message edited by ajdover on July 11, 2008)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on July 16, 2008, 02:37:21 PM: I'll bring over some photos of cut letters for you soon. I think it's looking really good so far!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on July 16, 2008, 08:11:39 PM: Mica,

Great, can't wait to see them.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on July 23, 2008, 07:23:06 PM: Message in a bottle:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54016.jpg)
And a bass all prepped for inlays:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54017.jpg)
This will probably be finished while I'm on vacation, but you can be sure I'll post some finished pictures just as soon as I can.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on July 23, 2008, 07:57:30 PM: Mica,

Wow. Just wow. It has been more than worth the wait. And I'm as giddy as can be.

Enjoy your vacation. After viewing these pics, you, James, and everyone at the Mothership deserves one!

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: olieoliver on July 25, 2008, 11:33:16 AM: Looking good Alan.

OO
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: tbrannon on July 25, 2008, 12:10:57 PM: Looking real good Alan. I really like the tweaks to the body shape that you guys made in an effort to get as close to the original as possible. I know that was a painstaking process, but the results look fantastic.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: altgrendel on July 25, 2008, 12:21:29 PM: Excuse my ignorance.

What's the joke note?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on July 25, 2008, 12:31:44 PM: Hey Altgrendel,
the joke note was a wrongly installed note on Johns original basses, means a wrong note put on a wrong place of the fingerboard.

Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on July 27, 2008, 10:08:18 PM: Guys,

Thanks for the kind words. I do appreciate them.

Oliver is (as usual) spot on about the joke note. In fact, Mica wanted to know if I wanted a joke note on my bass - I told her no. John had a very unique, dry sense of humor, and I thought it best to honor him by letting his basses be the only ones with a joke note. My bass will have properly made inlays, as it were, accurately reflecting note placement. It is, in my way, of paying tribute to John by making the inlays correct.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: bigbadbill on July 28, 2008, 05:19:49 AM: Lots of us Brits have a similar sense of humour to John to be honest....I know Lemmy of Motorhead said it got him into terrible trouble when he first moved to the States.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: bigbadbill on July 28, 2008, 05:21:34 AM: BTW...beautiful bass!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: garethnh on August 05, 2008, 07:52:19 AM: This is just too exciting! Goodness knows how you're feeling Alan!!!! It's looking amazing.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: elwoodblue on August 05, 2008, 11:06:52 PM: Looks like a candidate for a COTM...
...I second what gareth says.

It's too cool seeing a fine instrument being created...thanks to Alan and Alembic for letting us see behind the veil.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 06, 2008, 07:15:56 AM: COTM - I should be so lucky!

Thanks for all the kind words. The real credit, as always belongs to the elves at Alembic. Amazing folks, that lot.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on August 14, 2008, 04:47:50 PM: Look what happened! Here's the mother of pearl pieces getting glued in position for scribing:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54652.jpg)
James routing the recesses:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54653.jpg)
Dry fit of the pieces:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54654.jpg)
Shrouded in Ebony dust and glues:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54655.jpg)
And released from the shroud and fretted:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/54656.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: garethnh on August 14, 2008, 05:06:56 PM: Holy S***! I want one!
James is one talented dude.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 14, 2008, 05:21:43 PM: Incredible. Beyond words. Unglaublich. Fantastisch!

James, Mica, everybody - incredible job. Words don't even come close. I can't wait to get my hands on this beauty.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: adriaan on August 15, 2008, 01:40:05 AM: Seems like there were joke notes at the 3rd and 15th frets - at least for a short stretch of time.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 15, 2008, 05:29:27 AM: I'm not sure where the joke notes were, but I was asked about this and decided against having them put in. As I saw it, there was no way I'd ever be able to have an exact replica made - all of John's Exploiters, to my knowledge anyway are in private hands now. I'd have to have one to make an exact copy, and that simply isn't possible. What I set out to do was get very close, and make it more playable for me. After all, I'm the one playing it, not John or anyone else.

All this being said, I felt that not having a joke note was a tribute to the man - he was one of a kind. So were his basses, and I felt that it should be left that way, joke notes and all.

In the end I think Alembic has created a very close replica for me, with certain changes. During the design and construction, Susan and Mica both told me that certain things may have been mistakes on the originals, e.g., placement of the controls near the bridge, etc. As I felt John would have opted to fix these things had he ordered another Exploiter, I went ahead and made those changes I thought necessary from both an aesthetic and playability point of view. The end result, I'm sure, will be the bass of my dreams.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: adriaan on August 15, 2008, 06:06:07 AM: Small joke on my behalf, sorry if I offended you.

In the first and third picture, the flat signs had not yet been added to the B's on the 3rd and 15th fret, as they are in the final picture.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 15, 2008, 06:43:52 AM: Adriaan,

No worries, no offense taken. Just wanted to clarify why I chose to go the route I did, that's all.

On the flats and sharps, Mica told me they went with sterling silver wire. Had they gone with mother of pearl, it not only would have been more difficult, but it wouldn't have come out as distinct looking. Apparently, the inlays on John's basses weren't as defined in this respect. Oliver also seconded this, and I've been relying on his sage judgment on all things Ox throughout the build process. He even sent Alembic some pictures he had of John's basses to Alembic for me! Thanks Oliver!

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: tbrannon on August 15, 2008, 07:16:31 AM: It's looking very good Alan!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on August 15, 2008, 10:56:14 AM: Alan buddy,
you are welcome! It was a pleasure helping you with the fingerboard inlays and the general shape of the bass.
So now I have the problem where to find that small bunch of money to have its sister buildt, maybe the one with the V-headstock.
Do you know a good bank where I could get the money without giving a signature..... :-)
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 15, 2008, 01:26:35 PM: Oliver,

If I knew of a bank that gave away money, I'd be there already! ;-)

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: briant on August 15, 2008, 01:41:28 PM: Uhhhh... oh my. I want one. Badly.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: funkyjazzjunky on August 15, 2008, 02:14:03 PM: I am always amazed at the high level of artistry in Alembic basses.

Wonderful bass. I want one.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 15, 2008, 05:08:25 PM: Guys,

You can all get one. Just dial 1-800-ALEMBIC and one can be yours!

Seriously, the good thing about having this bass built is that anyone who wants an Entwistle Replica (well, a near replica anyway) can have one - the templates for the body are there, the inlays, etc. Much work went into getting the body shape right (right, Oliver, Mica, Susan?), as well as the inlay font (right Mica, Oliver?). Now that it's been done, it shouldn't have to be done again, and anyone wanting something similar can order one with ease.

All I can say is I can't wait to get it.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: David Houck on August 15, 2008, 06:19:39 PM: Major mile marker Alan!!! Congrats!!!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on August 16, 2008, 03:48:16 AM: Alan, Guys,
you are right.
Well I must seriously think about putting a sister besides Alans baby. So the V-head Spyder, exactly re-buildt, would be great.
Most of the difficult research is done; only the body shape needs to be overworked for the V-head.
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on September 11, 2008, 05:03:36 PM: Mica,

Any news?

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: garethnh on December 04, 2008, 01:00:18 PM: Any news on this bass amongst basses?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on February 07, 2009, 09:02:52 AM: Well,
would like to know what is going on with Alans Spyder...
Any developments?

Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 07, 2009, 04:14:58 PM: James is inlaying the custom spider webs.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 20, 2009, 07:17:12 PM: Some of the in-progress shots:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61546.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61547.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61548.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61549.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61550.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61551.jpg)
Back in spray now.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 20, 2009, 07:37:20 PM: Mica,

I've got to be honest and say I've been wondering what's been going on.

This being said ...

It was worth the wait ... it looks incredible.

I'll be heading down to North Carolina at the end of the month. Hopefully I'll be getting my bass not too long afterward. Well done.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 27, 2009, 05:20:34 PM: Back in the setup room, this time for the hardware preset and logo inlay:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/61906.jpg)
It looks really, really sharp.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 27, 2009, 05:43:21 PM: Good Lord ... it's beautiful. I've been waiting a long time, but jeez .. it's been more than worth it. As some might say, excellence doesn't come cheap, nor does it come quickly. This instrument is worth every penny and every minute.

I'm glad I've been patient. Incredible, and beyond my expectations.

V/R,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 27, 2009, 05:49:57 PM: BTW, where will the holes for the two master volumes, switch to choose between them, and the pickup pan pot be on the lower horn? Not nitpicking, just curious. My guess is you're probably trying to pick the best spot to drill.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on February 27, 2009, 06:20:54 PM: Yeah, we had to wait until the webs were in place to determine the right locations. When the bass goes back to spray, there will be a few more holes in it.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on February 27, 2009, 06:50:04 PM: OK, makes sense to me.

Can't wait to see it.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: qualloyd on March 25, 2009, 02:04:33 PM: (speechless)

Lloyd
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ox_junior on June 19, 2009, 11:22:52 AM: I may be behind, but did you get your bass Alan?

Long time no speak!

- Mike Bisch
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on June 19, 2009, 11:48:24 AM: Mike,

Great to hear from you.

No, not yet. I talked to Mica a few days ago, and they are in the process of drilling the holes for the master volumes/selector switch/pan pot on the lower horn, making the backplates, and finally applying an amber tint to it. I'm hoping to have it soon.

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on August 11, 2009, 04:55:18 PM: Tint on, plates on:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68574.jpg)
Just getting the top clear coats now. If everything goes well, should be about 2-3 weeks until we can ship.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on August 12, 2009, 09:56:45 AM: Alan Buddy,
well I must say that back looks much more sexy than the back of my poor man?s Spyder tribute bass......
I am eager to see the front of your Spyder.....
Oliver (Spyderman)(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68619.jpg)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 12, 2009, 01:45:41 PM: Oliver,

Me too! Hopefully I'll have it soon.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on August 28, 2009, 08:16:12 PM: It's been rubbed out:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69597.jpg)
Pre set up inspection next, then setup, then calibration then final inspection.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on August 28, 2009, 09:05:38 PM: Mica,

Beautiful, just beautiful. Thanks for the pic and update.

I'm headed back to Vermont for school tomorrow. When it's ready to ship let me know - I believe I sent you that address, but if not, I can send again via email.

Thanks!

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on October 12, 2009, 09:32:16 PM: Mica,

Any word on my bass?

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: mica on November 06, 2009, 06:52:05 PM: Snuggled in case:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72419.jpg)

Plan is Monday or Tuesday for the latest departure. Will of course keep you posted offline with all the details.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: keith_h on November 06, 2009, 07:02:26 PM: Looks great Al. I'm looking forward to seeing in person at the next get together.

Keith
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on November 06, 2009, 07:25:33 PM: Superb !!!!!!___________
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: dannobasso on November 06, 2009, 08:40:52 PM: Congrats Sir!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: gregduboc on November 07, 2009, 03:31:58 AM: Absolutely amazing!!!
I'm jealous...

Greg
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: FC Bass on November 07, 2009, 03:41:01 AM: (http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72441.gif)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: lbpesq on November 07, 2009, 09:33:38 AM: Alan:

Looking good!!! Congrats! So what's the story on the tailpiece? It certainly doesn't look like the standard Alembic bird.

Bill. tgo
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 07, 2009, 04:15:30 PM: Bill,

They replicate Entwistle's ... individual tailpieces for each string.

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: jedisan on November 07, 2009, 05:12:01 PM: Alan,

Congrats, one fine instrument! For me though, I think I would have to refer to the owners manual everytime I played to determine what all those knobs and switches do. Simply awesome, enjoy!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 07, 2009, 05:45:38 PM: Alan,

Man, I know your going to be very happy with this bass. I was watching this thread with great anticipation and very high expectations, and they pulled it off, again like a hot knife slicing through butter.

It's not my kind of shape... but I am happy for you... Ha ha ha eh

I am happy for you because of you and because this is a dream coming true for you.

Play it well, and I can't wait to see more pictures when you get it home and or on stage!!!

Well what do you know...

Your Exploiter and my Toma_Hawk were born around the same time...

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 07, 2009)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: jacko on November 09, 2009, 04:26:17 AM: Wow! That was certainly worth the wait. As Hal has said, more pictures once she gets home.

Graeme
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: georgie_boy on November 09, 2009, 07:15:49 AM: Congrats Alan!
Just superb!!!!!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on November 09, 2009, 07:27:35 AM: Hey Alan Buddy,
congrats to this beauty. I am jealous.....
Keep us informed with more detailed photos.....
Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: qualloyd on November 09, 2009, 04:05:28 PM: WOW! It makes me wish I had the Spider (Spyder?) inlays on my Exploiter! Enjoy the OX-EX!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: pauldo on November 09, 2009, 04:11:45 PM: oooh
aaah

:-D
jealous
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 09, 2009, 08:43:24 PM: All,

Thanks for the compliments. More compliments must go to the elves at the Mothership, though - they made my dream bass come true.

I'll post pics when I get it.

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: rowka on November 10, 2009, 05:56:22 AM: Absolute beaut!
I, um, borrowed the work done on the body shape for my own Exploiter.
Have fun with the new work of art.

http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/60374.html?1240660298 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=7470)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: David Houck on November 10, 2009, 05:20:48 PM: Beautiful!!!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ox_junior on November 12, 2009, 12:54:24 PM: Years in the making but well worth it for a masterpiece!!! Well done Alembic and congrats Alan!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: andbassforall on November 12, 2009, 01:57:43 PM: So awesome!
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 12, 2009, 06:49:42 PM: Hey Alan,

I was thinking of Spiderman when I seen your Alembic. What if...

....Anyway, just something to remember me by...
Spiderman Spiderman... here comes the Spiderman!!!

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72733.jpg)

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 12, 2009)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 12, 2009, 07:07:56 PM: Hal,

While I appreciate your efforts ...

I like her just the way she is! ;-)

Al
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 12, 2009, 07:17:58 PM: I know that...

I am just pulling you chain Alan... I like the color you chosen too.

I wish you the greatest joy with your beauty.

Are you sure you have enough controls?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 12, 2009, 07:37:18 PM: One can never have enough controls! ;-)

Alan
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: artswork99 on November 12, 2009, 07:42:36 PM: Alan,
Congratulations. That is a beautiful bass!
Play it Healthy!
Art
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: jacko on November 13, 2009, 06:11:50 AM: If you like spiders, you'll love this (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/6560670/Pictures-of-the-day-13-November-2009.html)

graeme
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: lbpesq on November 13, 2009, 07:07:38 AM: For another entertaining side trip into spiderland, check this out (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHzdsFiBbFc)!

Bill, tgo
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 13, 2009, 08:01:25 AM: HILARIOUS!

The Wood Spider!

What a study indeed...

Now, I understand why Alan has all the controls... They're actually the multiple eyes of the spider

PS,

Hey Alan, I know the Vermilion Exploiter I depicted on your FTC is not your taste, but it's growing on me...

Spider man suit was Red. That's the way it's suppose to be, and dog-gonn-it, I like it that way!

Peace and Love my friend!

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 13, 2009)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: toma_hawk01 on November 25, 2009, 01:56:39 PM: http://cgi.ebay.com/PUNTA-CANA-ENTWISTLE-ALEMBIC-GUITAR-Hard-Rock-Cafe-PINS_W0QQitemZ230403185860QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item35a5199cc4
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: edwin on November 25, 2009, 10:52:46 PM: So, what do the extra knobs do?
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: ajdover on November 26, 2009, 12:01:39 AM: I had two master volumes put on the lower horn, a la Entwistle, with a switch to choose between them. On the horn nearest the bridge, I have CVQs, Volume/Filters for each pickup, on/off for the LEDs ... plus the 1/4 jack and the five pin connector.
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: jacko on November 26, 2009, 01:42:25 AM: Hi Alan. I'm confused now. Surely the point of a master volume is to turn 'everything' up or down with one knob. Can you explain the thinking behind having two master volumes please?

Graeme
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on November 26, 2009, 02:58:53 AM: Graeme,
may I step in with an answer on this?
John did use this feature on his cone head Spyders but not on his V-head Spyder. John didn?t work with any volume pedals back then and he had set the two master volumes at two needed settings so that he could change the loudness within a song only with a flick of the switch. You can see and hear this clearly on the isoladed tracks where he just flicks the switch to change from a louder to a less louder part, also in songs like Behind Blue Eyes. That is the, very simple, reason.

Alan buddy,
did you receive the bass in the meantime?
We want to see pictures....... :-)

Oliver (Spyderman)
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: jacko on November 26, 2009, 03:39:32 AM: Thanks for the update Oliver, I guess that clears up the mystery. I'm just glad we have volume pedals these days - I wouldn't want too many knobs hiding all that beautiful woodwork ;-)

Graeme
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: sonicus on November 26, 2009, 07:14:33 AM: Thank you Oliver , I must comment that i did not know this as well.
John Entwistle was a brilliant musician with an incredible mind, I feel lucky that I had the opportunity to see him live with the WHO with Keith Moon still with us at the time, I saw the WHO in their original line up play at the Oakland Coliseum (Day on the Green ,BGP} with the GRATEFUL DEAD_ What an awesome show that was ! I have a Black & White 8X10 photo of him playing at that show hanging on my the wall in my studio. He is on the same wall with Phil Lesh, Jack Casady and Stanley Clark and they are all playing Alembic's. I call that wall ; THE ALEMBIC WALL !
Title: Re: Alan's Custom Exploiter Bass
Post by: senmen on November 26, 2009, 07:31:20 AM: Wolf,
wow cool....
Well, the explanation for that is really simple, also for me, it was that simple that I didn?t understand at first why he did it that way...

Oliver (Spyderman)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73230.jpg)
Title: Finish
Post by: mica on February 20, 2009, 07:20:24 PM: So the bass is back in spray again, and mom is wondering if we should tint the finish slightly amber to emulate the finish on JE's personal basses. What do you think?
Title: Finish
Post by: ajdover on March 23, 2009, 03:35:15 PM: Amber is what I'm looking for.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Finish
Post by: mica on March 26, 2009, 02:02:26 PM: Thanks for the reply here. I got the word through email and checked that it was on the work order. As far as I know, your bass is in final cure right now, so it's getting awfully close.
Title: Finish
Post by: ajdover on March 26, 2009, 04:11:23 PM: Mica,

Thanks for the update. I can't wait to get it!

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Note for note inlays
Post by: mica on May 01, 2008, 07:18:46 PM: Here's an image of the latest version of the artwork:

If you likie, we can start the cutting of shell the week of May 12th. Yay!
Title: Note for note inlays
Post by: ajdover on May 01, 2008, 08:23:51 PM: Mica,

Looks great. Go for it.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Note for note inlays
Post by: Bradley Young on May 02, 2008, 11:07:45 AM: Alan, I think you should just go all the way, and have OLEDs inlaid, then you could change things for drop tuning.
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mica on April 08, 2006, 12:19:33 AM: Hi Alan, Chip finished the mock-up of the body shape:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/27008.jpg)

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/27009.jpg)
It's amazing what you can do with carpet tape.
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on April 08, 2006, 04:01:16 AM: Mica,

I trust that isn't my neck there - I wanted the cone headstock as on John's basses, not the V shaped.

After reviewing photos of John's basses, I still think it's too thick at the waist if you will, e.g., where the upper and lower body halves pinch together in the middle of the body, particularly on the lower horn. The cutaway on the lower horn also needs to be deeper from what I can tell as well - on the picture I sent it appears to be almost even with the end of the truss rod.

The curve upward from the middle of the upper half to the upper horn also appears to have less of an upward angle in the picture I sent as opposed to the mock up. In other words, it's a bit more parallel to the ground as it were if we were to hold the instrument parallel to it. The lower horn appears to be too thick across, and shorter than on the picture I sent as well. From what I can tell the end of the lower horn is almost equal the middle of the 17th fret.

Overall, not a bad first attempt at all. Chip did very well indeed. Let's go ahead and try making those changes and see what we come up with.

I must say, seeing a FTC thread for my bass has me stoked!

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: petre on April 09, 2006, 01:18:08 PM: since i have tons of free time on my hands [while at home on a sunday afternoon], i made an animated gif showing [first and darkest] the original spider [from thewho.net] with the new one superimposed.
i drew lines up the center of the neck laminates and across the bottom of the fingerboards, and scaled the new body to the width of the fingerboard of the original.
this is for entertainment purposes only.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y121/ventrata/animatedspi.gif (http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y121/ventrata/animatedspi.gif)
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on April 10, 2006, 12:25:33 AM: Peter,

Thanks so much. That really helps put the two in perspective and assists greatly in getting the body shape right.

Mica,

Please take a look at what Petre's done. It pretty much confirms what I stated in my original response to the pictures.

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mica on May 15, 2006, 12:48:34 PM: Here's round II:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/28104.jpg)
Overlay of round II over original body reveals there's a touch more "massaging" to do on the shape, but it's closer than the first one:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/28105.jpg)
Round III should be conclusive. More to come soon.
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on May 15, 2006, 01:10:34 PM: Mica,

Looks better. I think we'd agree we've got a ways to go, but this is a step in the right direction to be sure. Can't wait to see Round III!

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: bsee on May 15, 2006, 01:48:11 PM: If you're planning to fix: the electronics layout, you may need to leave a little more wood in that area. I suspect at least part of the reason it ended up so cramped was a lack of space in that quadrant. I doubt Alembic would have designed it that way on purpose...

-bob
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on May 15, 2006, 01:59:10 PM: Bob,

We'll see how it goes, I guess. It's not something we have to decide on at the moment, but getting the body shape right is very important to me. It's why I went with this custom in the first place - get it as close as possible to the original. I am willing to make some changes as I'm the one playing the instrument, but not so much that I lose the original intent of the project. I really like the original's body shape - it is much sleeker than my Spyder. Looks to me like we'll be able to make it a reality.

Thanks for the input, I do appreciate it.

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: bsee on May 15, 2006, 03:33:23 PM: Alan-

Just pointing out that there may need to be a trade-off decision there. Once the wood is gone, it can't be added back, so best to consider it before further body slimming occurs.

I love playing Exploiters, they balance so well. I will be watching this one shape up, good luck with it!

-bob
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on May 15, 2006, 09:53:34 PM: Bob,

Roger, got it. This is why we went the mock up route - we have the opportunity to play with it a bit before we actually go to cutting the wood for the actual bass. One of the things Susan told me when we discussed this instrument was that for some reason, they didn't keep the template for this bass, though they now do such things. Additionally, the Spyders were designed to have a body shape that would appeal to a wide audience of potential players. John's basses were made to his specs, and this bodyshape is no different. Same goes for the neck, etc. - his fingerboards, for example, were completely flat.

Anyway, If we don't get it right, we can go back to square one with a Spyder body shape and start over. This is what I think Chip did with the first iteration - as I own a Spyder, what he did looked like my bass. Now that he's cut it down somewhat, it is much closer to what I've got envisioned. Again, I'm not averse to making changes I feel will make it more playable for me. Now, if it were the actual wood for the bass, then we might have a problem. Luckily, in this case, it's only the mock up, so I think we're good here.

Anyway, from what I can tell things are moving along nicely. Can't wait to see round III!

Thanks,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: 2400wattman on June 26, 2006, 10:31:29 PM: Alan, if John's fretboards were flat, does that mean that his strings were all the same heighth?
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mica on June 28, 2006, 04:17:06 PM: Chip has been working on this body a bunch. Here is the latest:

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/29386.jpg)

To my eyes, we are almost there. The upper bump (I can't call it a horn) needs to be rounded slightly. The lower horn needs to be a scoonch longer and ever so slightly more pointy.

Keep in mind when comparing the solid Mahogany body to the finsihed bass on the right to follow the Mahogany on the finished bass for comparison. It's easy to be distracted by the top laminate being smaller, so everything looks much bigger in mock up than it does when finished.

If you agree with me about the little issues, we will probably just start building the body for your bass with those very slight changes to the template, rather than making another mock up. You'll let me know.
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on June 29, 2006, 02:25:50 PM: Mica,

I agree that the upper bump needs to be rounded and smoothed at the waist and at the top of the bump before it goes down into where it meets the neck. It also needs to be a bit more parallel to the neck, if you know what I mean. The angle on the upper bump going towards the neck appears a bit too steep to me. And I agree on the lower horn - it does indeed need to be more pointy. I also think that on the bottom of the bass, the body needs to be more rounded at the points (the upper rear of the bass, and the lower rear of the bass near the controls). Might be a photo-ism that I can't see, but that's what I think it needs.

Please extend my sincere thanks to Chip - he's doing a fantastic job. But then again, this is Alembic after all - of course he's doing a great job! ;-)

Also, wanted to make sure that we all know that I wanted a walnut body, with Bird's Eye maple for the top (and back). I'm considering the idea of walnut lams for the neck, maybe ebony (and yes, I know that will increase the price; I'll work this with Beaver F as needed), but I haven't made a definitive decision yet. As we haven't begun building the instrument yet, we have a bit of time. Let me know if this is untenable for you guys, and whether you need a decision now.

I'll be home fairly soon, and I plan a trip to Santa Rosa sometime in August. I can't wait to finally visit and see my bass in progress in person!

Thanks for the update,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: David Houck on July 02, 2006, 03:29:52 PM: Alan; it's great to hear that you will be coming home soon!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mica on July 17, 2006, 07:14:20 PM: We're looking forward to seeing you, Alan. Chip finished the latest template. I've placed it over the old mock-up:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/30059.jpg)
Mom and I inspected this very closely, and feel it's just right, including a slight correction here:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/30060.jpg)
today's template over the picture of JE bass. Note how the template is slightly larger here. We don't feel the carving on the original you are comparing it too was careful. There are some weird angles and abrupt changes there, and it doesn't even go around the inlay evenly. What we're thinking is to proceed with the build on this template. This would give you the option of after seeing it with the laminates and roundover, having Peter carve it down more if you felt it needed it. Sound like a plan?
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on July 19, 2006, 01:34:17 PM: Mica,

Thanks for taking the time to get this body style right - I know it must be a lot of work and painstaking.

My take is that the angle of the upper horn on the left hand side of the bass, as you look at it, needs to be slightly more acute, upward every so slightly - it looks a bit too parallel to the fingerboard/neck to me. Also, I think the rounding where the upper horn merges into the rear horn on the left side of the bass could be a bit softer; it appears to angle back up more steeply than on the picture of JE's bass.

Is it possible to fix those two things? If we can, I think we're there. I'm also thinking that maybe the angle at the picture was taken is affecting my judgment, but I'll defer to you guys since you took the picture.

If you want to wait til I visit to make the final changes to the template, that's cool. I'd rather get it just as we want it rather than move too quickly and not get it there. Let me know what you think.

We're almost there, and I'm really pumped. Thank everyone at the Mothership for the great work they're doing for me.

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: lbpesq on July 20, 2006, 05:50:23 AM: Alan:

This looks to be shaping up as a very cool project. Great news that you'll soon be back so that you can make the trip to Santa Rosa. I'm sure you and your's are very excited. Best wishes for a safe and uneventful journey (at least until you hit the states, then enjoy all the events you want!)

Bill, tgo
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on July 21, 2006, 02:36:53 AM: Bill,

Thanks. It will be great to be home again with my wife ... and my Alembics!

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: lbpesq on July 21, 2006, 07:02:56 AM: Alan:

In that order?

(You may not want to, and probably shouldn't, answer that)! LMAO

Bill, tgo
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on July 21, 2006, 01:26:44 PM: Bill,

Yes, in that order. That is, if I want to stay married!

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: lbpesq on July 21, 2006, 09:40:03 PM: Amen, brother!

Bill, tgo
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on October 04, 2006, 10:26:55 PM: Mica,

Any movement on my bass? If not, that's cool. Just curious.

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mica on October 05, 2006, 06:51:32 PM: The calender in assembly is mostly dedicated to you for next week, Alan. I'll get you lots of good progress shots so you can see all the neat details.
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on October 05, 2006, 07:55:36 PM: Mica,

Thanks. Can't wait to see it. Don't feel like you have to dedicate all your time to me .. I've been to the Mothership and know you have lots of folks you have to attend to. I also know you guys are busier than a one-armed paper hanger ...

Can't wait to see my bass as it progresses.

Say hi to your Mom, Dad, and Val for me ...

Best regards,

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ox_junior on October 09, 2006, 11:57:23 AM: Isn't there a song about a one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple paper hanger?
Title: Body Shape
Post by: lbpesq on October 09, 2006, 12:32:56 PM: I believe so - wore short shorts and quite friendly, as I recall.

Bill, tgo
Title: Body Shape
Post by: dtrice on October 28, 2006, 12:33:32 PM: Hi, I am new to Alembic. I am currently looking at having an Exploiter built. I really like the way his body shape has been altered to more exactly replicate JE's personal bass. Would it be possible to save this new shape's dimensions in order to build another one?
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on October 28, 2006, 10:22:58 PM: Daniel,

I see no reason that the craftsmen and women at Alembic can't do the same for you. I was out there in August, and Chip had the templates in hand; as my bass is the first attempt at recreating that particular body shape, I would think that the good people in Santa Rosa will hold on to it like they do their other shapes. Susan told me that she had quoted many Entwistle style basses, but none had actually gone on to make a custom order. To my knowledge, mine will be the closest thing one can get to John's original basses without actually buying one (which would be hideously expensive).

Alan
Title: Body Shape
Post by: mtnst8 on October 29, 2006, 04:26:43 PM: I'm curious how the bodies would have changed from JE's. According to the Featured Custom page (June 2003) for the Spyder basses, We used the same templates for the body and peghead shapes as we used on John's basses. Clearly though the one you're having built differs from that and more closely reflects JE's. What would explain the difference?

Brad
Title: Body Shape
Post by: ajdover on October 30, 2006, 12:50:03 AM: Brad,

When I initially began the process of ordering a custom, I had a wonderful conversation with Susan about this. Apparently, back in the day, they did not save all their templates (though they do now). This was the case with John Entwistle's Spyders. I own a Spyder, but I wanted one like his, or as close to it as I could get. One look at a picture of his basses and you can see that the Spyder Limited Editions and those he played have different body shapes. I can't explain why the Featured Custom page states what it does, but I do know that the great people in Santa Rosa did the Photo Shopping necessary to get the body right. To wit, the upper horn meets the neck further up, the cutaway is a bit deeper, and the bass itself is thinner at the waist, if you will.

Susan told me each bass they made for John was slightly different, so if there is variation in the body shape, this might also be a reason for it. I do know, for example, that John's V head Exploiter had the long tailpieces that are similar to those on my Spyder; the one's on others were much shorter (I'm having these recreated for my bass as I'm cramming a bunch of Series II electronics into the body; I need all the room I can get!).

I'm only speculating here, but I'm sure Alembic had good reasons for any changes made. I'm sure a phone call to Susan or Mica would clear it up if you're so inclined.

Alan
Title: Electronics layout
Post by: mica on May 15, 2006, 12:54:55 PM: Here's something that concerns me about this replica. The original control layout is not good:

(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/28109.jpg)

Notice how the neck pickup volume and Q switch are really crammed right up against the edge of the bridge. Now, that can't be fun to use. Also, the bridge Q switch is cramped to use.

I regard the original layout as a mistake. There is actually room to scoot the controls away from the bridge and leave each with a little more breathing room.

My question is do you want us to replicate the original layout of the cluster, or should we improve it while keeing the controls on the horn the same?
Title: Electronics layout
Post by: ajdover on May 15, 2006, 01:17:15 PM: Mica,

I'm all for improving it, as I think that's what John would have done. Besides, I'm playing this instrument, not him. Let's see where we can move them to. Having them up against the bridge would indeed be problematic for me, anyway. Lower horn looks fine.

Thanks,

Alan