Alembic Guitars Club
Alembic products => Factory to Customer => Topic started by: mica on August 13, 2009, 05:03:04 PM
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And, we're off!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68701.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68702.jpg)
With the site plan:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68703.jpg)
Good stuff!
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I like the wood choices; they'll look very nice with finish!
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I am lost for words... I lost my voice...
It's a shining beacon on a hill, leading me to the light of creation. The light is truth.
I can see the light, and yet I am without eyes.
Thank you, very much Mica for this picture.
Hal-
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The wood is simply perfect.
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The making of a dream, congratulations!
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Thank you Mario,
It's exciting to see this happen. It will be a highlight of my life, (that's for sure) and this means everybody of Alembic will forever hold a special place in my heart, including our loyal club members.
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My phone has been ringing off the hook since the Toma_Hawk pictures had been posted... I gotten calls and emails from Central America, South Africa and of course my home sweet home town SF Bay Area, Central Valley, and up in Chino Hills in Cali!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 14, 2009)
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What an original design. While each Alembic is truly special, yours will always be innovative and unique
Vann-Di
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Well,
the Tomahawk gets real....
Hal,
congrats to your decision to have this one buildt..
Oliver (Spyderman)
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Vann-Di,
I am not sure if you seen Enter The Dragon with Bruce Lee...
If you had seen this movie... Theres a scene (while he's in an action fighting sequence) Bruce fights excellently his way up with (1) stick, then (if almost by accident) the one stick, breaks into (2) sticks, and he fights twice effectively; but just when you thought you seen it all, somebody loses their Nuncucks, and it falls in Bruce's hands...
It's just another purpose of change.
Nothing better or worse. The Toma_Hawk it just about an honest design that fits my playing attributes, techniques, and style.
It's still part of the Alembic Family!
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Hi Oliver The Spyderman,
My Spider senses were tingling for this bass...
This bass absolutely, positively, definitively, objectively, whole heartily, unquestionably, indubitably, undeniably, and unconditionally had to be, must be an Alembic Series Bass (Period).
No other bass could be a Toma_Hawk, unless it's an Alembic.
I am sure you understand Oliver...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 14, 2009)
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I've been looking forward to this build.
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Wheeeeee! So glad to see this one on it's way Hal. You must be very exited! I hope it doesn't screw up your sleeping habits for the next (insert time relative adjective here)!!! It would be like everynight is x-mas eve and i'm a kid who is so excited he can't sleep sort of feeling, am i close on this one??? Can't wait to see this one come togather. Lucky man you are!!!! Peace and low notes...Bear
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Hi Bear,
To be honest about the whole thing, you are right!
Man, I been doing everything extra around the house to keep myself from thinking about this bass: Cleaning my garage, cleaning the interior of my mini van, attending Tea Parties with my (4) year old Daughter, and even building a deck, out in the backyard.
But then again, it started after putting the first image on the Dreaming for now thread. It was that moment, on that second, I felt even more nervous because this design was in sketches and also made with Styrofoam models, and I spent years shaping and re-shaping the concept until I was ready to reveal it to The Club.
So, when I got my call back from Alembic, it was like finding the golden ticket in a Willy Wonka's candy bar.
To see this bass design honored with the Alembic Logo will be a dream of dream.
Very special people like you, are looking at this bass with much anticipation, and this also sends additional butterflies to my stomach as well.
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Looking good. What is the top wood?
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Here's my latest sketch with actual pictures of the Vermilion top...
Simulating the shine is a very difficult thing, so I'll have to leave the rest up to my imagination...
I LOVE IT!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 15, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68776.jpg)
WOW!
I love that color... There's something retro about the shape and color I love so much...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 15, 2009)
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A little more Shine rendering...
Nothing like the real thing from Mica
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The hardest part is going to be waiting for calibration to be complete.
I'm also betting that this is going to be one of the longest FTC threads ever!
;)
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I suggest you save your betting money, because
David's 12-string Bass (6x2) FTC thread is the longest.
But, I understand what you mean. The Dream threads under Hendixclarke was very long, mainly because the edits, were the driving force.
However, FTC thread, is beyond the dreams, its reality. Every detail about the Toma_Hawk, is known and documented.
Therefore technically, my role is is complete.
Thus, I think this thread will be relatively short.
I can't lie, I will drool, after seeing real pictures of the Toma_Hawk bass, for at that point, the physical appearance is complete.
However, the devil is in the details, and true beauty is beyond the appearance...
I have much comfort, knowing Ron is at the helm, adding his finishing touches, which includes calibrating... Yes, It will be hard waiting, but Ron's job is critical.
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Seeing how passionate you are, I'm really happy for you !
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To be honest enzo, I believe this experience alone, has added 10 extra years to my life expectancy.
Now, I have a even trade... My wife can take everything else...
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OH man, I'm going to be watching this thread.
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Its a Party over Here!!!!
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The big brother 1976, is waiting for his baby brother 2009...
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Little more on the building process:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68993.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68994.jpg)
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It's coming closer...
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Nut width = 1.60 in
1st Fret Neck Thickness = 0.80 in (Flat neck where the thumb rest, (positioned behind the neck) to where the fingerboard meets)
17th Fret Neck Thickness = 0.96 in (Flat neck where the thumb rest, (positioned behind the neck) to where the fingerboard meets)
24th Fret width = 2.15 in
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I like very much the combination 2 purple heart, 1 ebony and those thin maple stripes in between makes it very classy.
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Really nice neck lams Hakeem- I agree with enzo- the thin maple veneers are sharp.
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If it's a question of whither, or not the guitar has a PF-6B preamp card... (meaning calibration of these preamp cards) and if series basses are deemed with the cards, I think the possibilities are almost with an absolute certainty, Ron would be the last line of defense on series basses, with exceptions to other customs.
I am sure, he has his apprentice, but I know -- it is he (Ron) working on the the Toma_Hawk -- exclusively.
Truly, Mica owns this answer.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 08, 2010)
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Altgrendel,
Without question, I will post enough pictures.
My favorite picture are depth to field close ups and ratios in relationship to the sizes of other guitars. In fact, I love those group shots posted from Keavin #12 with all those Alembics standing next to each other. Without question, those are the best pictures on Alembic.com and it's the best pictures for looking for size comparisons.
For example, if I was interested in a new bass, I would look for those group shot pictures of all those varieties of basses. In those pictures, you'll be able to take away something with more meaning, than what meets the eyes.
What is particularly interesting about Mica's pictures, are when one of the technicians holds, and pose with the instrument. You really get a better perspective of the basses size, and granular dimensions as well.
So, I will post hopefully, some very interesting picture too.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 08, 2010)
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jazzyvee, i had to have some electronics worked on that had somehow shorted out(scared me to hell, smoke coming out, tears to my eyes) and when i sent Mica an e-mail about it she asked me to leave a note on the package directed to her. so i'm pretty sure that Mica and company can perform on the non-series instruments no problem.
~Taylor
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Who will be the honors of post #500?
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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Sorry, couldn't resist!
Greg
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You're beautiful Greg.
I was hoping it would be you, altgrendel, Garth, Sonicus or Wolf to hit #500.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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Hal, it is great to know that I'll be remembered as part of the history of Toma_Hawk.
Any news from Alembic? Any estimative now?
Greg
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Greg,
Just wait until you have your bass streaming through this Internet FTC, I'll be your #1 fan!
As to your question about the Toma_Hawk...
According to Mica, Ron has this bass.
I have complete faith that the Toma_Hawk will be a BAAAD MOTHER... Shut your mouth!
When he's done! (an you can dig it...)
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We are talking about Shaft, after all... :>)
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Mica,
Any updates?
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Your bass design is awesome...
Stanley Clarke-
For those people who originally felt the same way about this bass, another person just joined us in agreement.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 14, 2010)
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Stanley Clarke? What does he know about Alembics and about bass playing?
He will always be one of my idols....
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God is Good.
Ed, its good to the hear from you.
Robert, your bass is beautiful. I see you have a Dragon Bass too.
Ed, you and I have a Tiger basses (Chinese New Year).
Peace and Love.
Hal-
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Wow what a nice video!!! THANK U!!!
I had the chance to see him in concert in Mexico city in. 1995, with Al Dimeola and Jean Luc Ponty, there was no drummer.... So he had the responsibility of the whole rythm, he stole the show, he is SO cool...
I can see why he uses mainly Alembics, that kind of lead sound can only come from an Alembic.
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A tiger bass? Does that mean my bass will have many lovers and play golf?
;O )
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Man, your bass is so SUPER-BAAAD, the ladies will show, as soon as you hit a beautiful note. You will not need to play golf, my brother.
BTW, I looked up the meaning of golf...and I found:
(Gentlemen. Only. Ladies. Forbidden)
If true, what a legacy...
(I learn something new everyday...)
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 15, 2010)
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Hi Hal!
When r u expecting the new bass? I am still on hold!
Interesting definition of golf ... I remember reading an article some time ago about the word Nylon...
It seems that it was discovered by 2 scientists one from NY city and one from LONdon.... And that's where the name comes from....!!!!
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Hi Ed.
I am still waiting to get the call. I am holding off on any unnecessary (out of the area) travels this month and next month, I have faith the new birth of this bass will be picked up soon.
I was thinking, there may be a chance I'll see your bass, if its still at Alembic HQ, if they'd yet to ship it off..
Like I said before, I promise to look, but not touch it...
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76513.gif)
500
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76514.gif)
Oh, and the Toma-Hawk is cool!
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Thanks Paul,
And it don't stop, can't stop, won't stop...
It might reach 1000 long after I receive this bass!
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 16, 2010)
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It might reach 1000 long after I receive this bass!
Won't that take up rather alot of room on the Alembic server?
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Done!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76604.jpg)
I've sent you an email about available dates to collect your bass.
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Very cool.
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Awesome, Hal - congratulations... This leg of the journey is OVER. Take the next exit to Alembic, and start the next one!
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Wow - looks beautiful! Congrats Hal!
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Mica, Susan, Ron and the Alembic Team THANK YOU!
It's a emotional moment for me, and seeing this bass pictured with the magic word: Done was the final chapter to this story of how Alembic made my dream bass.
I am very sure, this story will be repeated again and again, for generations to come.
JOB WELL DONE!
Peace to everybody and may I hope, to someday see your Alembic ideas created here. (why would you go anywhere else???)
God bless everyone, and please keep me in your prayers.
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 17, 2010)
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Congratulations Hal . 'Be Here Now on your way to pick up your new creation and back again and be safe on the road for I am sure you are and will continue to be experiencing several layers of pure elation for the entire journey .
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Yes.
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This must be a world record bass, took less time to construct than to design/quote a 12th fret inlay for another bass that's almost finished (!)
Looks great, congrats!
Be sure to totally overload the showcase section when you get her! ;-)
Royal badness indeed! (http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76631.gif)
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Thanks fellas,
This bass was just paid in full today!
The deal was honored with the most smoothest transaction imaginable.
The 'spirit' in this one is strong...
Flip, (LOL!!!!) Man, don't say that... (LOL) Alembic authorities will hall my ass off the site with all my pictures LOL!!!!!!
I can hear it coming...
Hal, this not the Toma_Hawk Blog... Dude chill on the photos already... LOL!!!
I promise to be cool. Honestly, I will be devoting most of my time recording with both basses with in Funk harmonies.
I'll be doing more intensive animation work with these two basses. It's time for the Toma_Hawk to enter the virtual worlds of computer simulations. This should be fun, but my coffee budget will take a hit increase. I will not be able to sleep for months.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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Congratulations Hal - this is indeed fantastic news. I'm sure the bass will play as good as it looks and you won't be able to put it down. Looking forward to sound clips.
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Well, its time for a review, after test driving the Toma_Hawk.
WOW!!!!
This bass is absolutely fun to play. The action is so responsive, I barely need to strike cords for them to respond, but when you do strike with power, the punch resonates each note(s) clean, effortlessly.
Far as balance goes, the Toma_Hawk is body heavy and it's thicker than my 76 Series 1 and the neck is thinner with a faster design than my 1976 bass too. The Toma_Hawk is a far better bass than anything I ever owned or played.
This bass feel great, and the controls are nicely spaces and they don't feel crowed at all. The chrome give a high clean posh modern look, and all the wood colors contrast, and coordinated nicely.
The bass has a deep red, vermillion wood, which I find very energetic, exciting and yes -- sexy too. Also, when light bounces off the vermillion, giving a velvet like reflection (it's so nice...).
Want to see pictures?
http://club.alembic.com/Images/411/76637.html?1266665605 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=8381)
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 20, 2010)
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Lights off... Nothing to see here
God Bless You...
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 23, 2010)
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The color concept was Susan's idea, and I think its beautiful. After Mica showed me some examples, I was floored by the contrast of colors.
Stripes ads a sense of danger too; like the dangers one senses of the colors of a coral, or king snake. These colors, naturally alerts the human Psyche almost instinctively. WATCH OUT!
Nature is very fitting for this bass, for which it pays homage to the great Native American culture and colors.
oddly, I can't help but think of the striped ribbons of those old classic racing cars at Monaco of the 1950's and 60's too.
This neck is beautiful in so many ways, and you get to see the colors of the neck, on the front of the bass too, and that is very cool!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 20, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69009.jpg) a mini rendition...
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Hey Hal!
Man, congratulations!!! What a feeling it must be... Watching your dream being carved!
I'm following this one, no doubt. I really want to see this wood with the finishing touch.
Congratulations again Hal, you are now part of the special part of the club, the Custom Owners!! I can't wait to be part of that!
Greg
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Here a touched rendition of the side view of the Toma_Hawk...
Vermilion-FRONT/Maple veneer/Purple Heart/Maple veneer/Mahogany-CENTER/Maple veneer/Purple Heart/Maple veneer/Vermilion-BACK
It looks dangerously, venomously-poisonous, it's ready to strike.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69028.jpg)
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Greg,
Man... you have the baddest bass I ever seen. (second to mine...)
Knowing you are watching this bass with watchful eyes, say more than what meets the eyes... my friend.
Your comments are always appreciated, and welcome like fresh air!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 21, 2009)
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Yea, that combination of neck lams always reminds me of racing stripes too.
(Message edited by altgrendel on August 21, 2009)
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The Toma_Hawk car is my next project
I love bold stripes!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 21, 2009)
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Hal, this is really a bass I want to see!!! I fell in love with the shape, I find it very authentic and original.
I'll always keep an eye here!
Greg
ps. I wanna ride on that Toma_Hawk car!
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With the Toma_Hawk, what I find most intriguing with the shape: I can't tell which end of the bass, has the most dominate/passive characteristics. Both ends: the crown, and the body has (what I call) a point to prove.
It feels like the the body wants to lead you into its arrow pointing position, and yet the crown also has it's powers to lead too.
Shapes are indeed magical.
As for cars... look at the AMC Pacer...
That car would be HOT for modern times, if the back of the car, were actually the front...
The back of the car, to me, was the money shot, the killer look. The windows, the room, and openness... That would be very a very modern looking car. (Take a look at one, and see what I mean...)
Just an example of what happens when design lack balance on both ends...
JMHO
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Hal, I think there is one thing for me that really represents what I see when I look at the Toma_Hawk: It wants to be played. Hard. And honestly, I wouldn't want anything else.
Just a thought on my mind
Greg
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I believe all shapes, should have a function.
When I see a sail boat, the first thing I see is the magnificent canvas. Its always such a joy, to see the sails grabbing natures winds, and seeing the canvas wave patterns against the backdrops of the deep blue seas. Just looking at the sails without wind, is beautiful enough; but when the winds are full, and the boat is in full motion, that's heaven.
Looking at the age of my 1976 Alembic Short body, there are some premier features I would never change. Some people prefer thin guitar bodies, and some people don't. I always ask myself, thin compared to what?
My 1976 Small Body (width) is 1.75 and it's perfect. If that size was tried and tested with the 76'er and it lasted this long (and still going strong...) then why change the formula?
I have a great baseline...
First, this is an Alembic Bass. There's a strong reputation and legacy that embodies every one made. The Toma_Hawk bass will be of no exceptions.
This bass will have all meat to take on:
1. Over a multitude of finger plowing of Stanley Clarke...
2. Over a multitude of thunderous thumbs and hits of Lewis Johnson...
3. Over a multitude of pops and slaps of Mark King... and...
4. It will look like a light saber from Star-Wars in the dark.
If it stays half as in good condition as my 1976 (30 years from now...) I will be a very happy old man.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 22, 2009)
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Toma_Hawk Spirit #1 frequency with of The Alembic Mothership, was successful. Soul transmission to the Toma_Hawk assembly has begun...
Only (4) more Toma_Hawk Spirits left, before the Body electric Toma_Hawk can depart the Alembic Mothership, and report for duty in spreading peace and love to the world with low frequencies...
To see this live communication from space, copy and paste this link to your browser...
http://club.alembic.com/Images/397/67578.html?1251002148
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69126.gif)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 23, 2009)
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More stuff happened to your bass this week. Peghead veneers in place:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69576.jpg)
Designed a custom backplate for the harness side of the body:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69577.jpg)
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Body core and accent laminates together:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69580.jpg)
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Very nice headstock lam!
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Toma_Hawk Spirit #1 frequency with of The Alembic Mothership, was successful. Soul transmission to the Toma_Hawk assembly had finished...
Toma_Hawk01, had received 100% of the Purple Ship's soul transfer, deep from outer space. The life forces of the Purple ship created the pulse of life to the Toma_Hawk01.
Only (4) more Toma_Hawk Spirits left, before the Body electric Toma_Hawk can depart the Alembic Mothership, and report for duty in spreading peace and love to the world with low frequencies...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69662.gif)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 29, 2009)
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Hi Mica,
You made my weekend...
I am happy to be in on the action... WOW!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 29, 2009)
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Thank You Mica!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69682.gif)
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How much do you love a Toma Hawk???
This much!
This picture is an actual concrete Toma Hawk and TeePee located in Saskatchewan Canada.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69685.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on August 29, 2009)
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A cool strap for the Toma_Hawk...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69777.jpg)
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I love the color of Salmon!
Reddish Orange to Orange to Pink... It's All beautiful colors to me...
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I was looking at Vermilion color variations on other Alembic basses and colors from the the Toma_Hawk's actual crown (shown within this FTC), I believe the Toma_Hawk's Vermilion top and back color may match the colors within my drawing rendition below.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69800.jpg)
Again, nothing is better than the real thing, and I'll be happy with any of many hues of a Vermilion wood, but its fun to predict while waiting for the moment of truth.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 02, 2009)
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Here's the actual crown wood from Mica's picture I used to build and render this new Toma_Hawk body.
There's many factors for which which computer drawings are limited over real live pictures.
So, until Mica shows the actual pictures, my drawings validates nothing.
Mica's real pictures, are the key to my sanity and monitoring progress.
For a picture, speaks a thousand words.
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Awesome computer drawings Mr . toma hawk01 !
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I never seen a more realistic computer drawing.
I loved the hearth beat one, very cool !
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Thanks Sonicus and Enzo.
I could draw this bass with my eyes closed now...
I can see it from every angle, and dimension.
It's everything I see a bass should be, and I am very humbled, and gracious for the support given to this end.
Thanks Fellas.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69825.jpg)
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I consider 1970's The decade which the electric Bass emerged to the fore front....
When you think about it, in (5) genres: Rock, Soul, Funk, Disco and Jazz/Rock Fusion-- the 70's pushed the electric bass to new limits in popular music like no other time.
Therefore, when I see a vintage 70's Alembic bass, I can't help but think of the pressures; the demands of the times; and the push for a better/higher quality material and sounds.
By the time the 80's and 90's music ran it's course which created the battle between digital bass and analog bass, and although the battle was pretty brutal (like when you listen to Miami Vice sound tracks, -- music of the 80's) Our Analog basses, had a huge hill to climb, but in the end, Alembics are still here.
Although with the few last surviving Alembics from the 70's, I find them more relevant than ever and I can honestly say: not one bass sends more chills down my spine than my 1976 shory.
With year 2000 in full swing, I believe music is headed back to quality and people want a real band again. They want new stuff, but with the quality and attributes of the old and wise.
My expectations are really set high for the Toma_Hawk.
Just a thought...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/69863.jpg)
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Here's some more things happening:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70185.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70186.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70187.jpg)
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Mica why is the tips of the vermilion wood sliced off?
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Both sides show a clean cut and not rounded...
Will it get rounded off at some point?
I hope so.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70221.jpg)
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Hal, i understand you are getting scared about this, but that is not the actual shape, you need to look at the white outline because i believe that they will cut/sand it down to that. also, the white lines aren't alined(look at the top of the body) so this is not what it will be like. i'm certain that Alembic knows what they are doing so just relax and enjoy the show :-)
~Taylor Watterson
P.S.- it's looking good ;-)
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Taylor,
Thanks man. You know I know, you are right. Absolutely right. That was very comforting Bro.
I am going to take your advise for-real, and enjoy the moment. Actually small tears of joy fell from this grown man's face.
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The blessing and curse of seeing how it's done, not just the finished product. I promise we'll also sand off the FRONT and BACK designations too
Even that inner white line is the edge of the core - the top will wind up a good bit within that since the body is rounded over.
Deep breaths!
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Toma_Hawk Spirit #2 frequency with of The Alembic Mothership, was successful. Soul transmission to the Toma_Hawk assembly had finished...
Toma_Hawk01, had received 100% of the Orange Ship's soul transfer, deep from outer space. The life forces of the Orange ship created the pulse of life to the Toma_Hawk01.
Only (3) more Toma_Hawk Spirits left, before the Body electric Toma_Hawk can depart the Alembic Mothership, and report for duty in spreading peace and love to the world with low frequencies...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70231.gif)
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Mica, the contrasting colors are wonderful. It's great to see my route 66 freeway sign... (without the neck)
Watching this bass come together, is fun.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 09, 2009)
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Long after my fatherhood rolls are over,
my guitar will be there...
Long after my work and service in the work-world are over,
my guitar will be there...
Long after my relatives, friends, and neighbors had moved away or moved on,
my guitar will be there...
After that... nothing else really matters (anyway).
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hey you are speaking always with yourself.. do you have time to work a little ?
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At 45, I am learning how to play now. I still have 30 years to work.
Now my question to you...
How do you find the time to play all those alembics and still keep a roof over you and your families head?
I am sure you had to work and be great at something... Right?
As far as speaking to oneself, you obviously read my remarks, so I can use your logic and count you as 1. Reading is an invisible thing, my friend. It takes more to write something down...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 10, 2009)
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Pierre, I had read many of your comments, and I find your approach and choice of words out right direct, and sometimes showing no compassion at times.
I remember you having a hard time with showing patience for a member's custom bass. I felt your comments were very discouraging to Alembic customers and somewhat, indirectly disrespectful to the people who give more than 100% everyday building dreams musical instruments and equipment.
In reference of my membership for over 2 years, and having read countless number of threads with your name along side, I find your remarks on my FTC thread, A typical Pierre comment.
Pierre, ever since I been a member I never held a view in censoring people. If people ask dumb questions...
Also, you probably know by now, I am very open with my views as well...
So in a strange way, I think you are a very cool Cat too. You are different, and I like that too.
Peace my brother Pierre!
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guys, this is a happy time, Hal is finally getting one of his dream instruments. let's keep all the negative comments out of this so that it doesn't ruin the atmosphere of this joyous occation :-D
~Taylor Watterson
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Taylor,
To me, the most sacred area on this site, is the FTC thread. With every picture Mica shows, the dynamics of the thread changes in a very positive and magical way.
It hard to knock something down, when pictures are showing beauty and progress in a very positive direction. Besides, I know the Toma_Hawk is beautiful, just like everything I embrace.
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You only have to look around the many pictures on this site to see that there is such a diversity in tastes relating to what people like and like less about Alembic instruments. Thankfully we don't all share the same taste. I think that diversity in what we as musicians want to feel under our fingers, hear with our ears and see with our eyes are some of the factors that push the alembic designers and craftspeople to stretch their own skills in order to realise our dreams. All of us have benefitted and continue to benefit from the experience alembic gains from creating the diverse instruments that we want to play whether we like the shape, look, feel, sound or even price of a custom job.
I'm comforted in knowing that whatever challenges alembic have had to rise to in making Tomahawk or any other bass will ultimately make my future instrument even better than it would have been had it been made today.
Knowledge is knowing at tomato is a fruit, wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.
It's all good stuff.
Jazzyvee
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Well put Jazzyvee!
Hal,
Enjoy, revel and bath in the comfort of this FTC.
All the best,
Art
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Hal - the French can be a little direct sometimes, don't feel offended. (This coming from a Dutchman, a nation proud of its bluntness.)
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If its not broke, don't fix it... (I agree...)
The Toma_Hawk is a solution (an answer) to an age old question, and problem I had with basses in general -- (for a very long time...).
Over the course of my (45) years and beyond, I had seen a win-fall of beneficial changes made to support Lead/Rhythm guitarist, which enhanced their playing-skills. As fast as it takes to write these short words, more changes had already occurred, and will continue.
However, in comparison to basses there's still very little changes in comparison to the guitar.
The Alembic company has always been at the forefront of making extraordinary basses and advanced electronics, pushing evolutionary, and revolutionary steps, sprints, and charges toward change.
What is a bass? (I have no idea what that is...).
What is an Alembic Bass? (Oh, are you in for a treat!)
From the first time I strapped on my first Alembic S1 (27) years ago, the sound was above everything else. My long scale S1 commanded attention not only for its great commanding looks alone, the sound was glass shatteringly clear too. But in all honesty, it just got too heavy for me over the years, and for the long haul. I would tell my band mates jokingly: It hurt so good... Let's play the long version now...
Although the Alembic Short body would be my next choice, but finding one available was half the battle; especially when people rarely part from their 1970's vintage Short body Series. (which I desired the most...).
So, after finally finding my 76 shorty, I was very pleased. I feel like I can assess, and understand why Stanley Clarke and other bassist loves shorties so much. First off, these basses are very beautiful, practical, and elegantly designed lighter than long scales Alembics. However, the most important attribute I love about them the most, they're very fun to play. The action is s perfect, its truly unbelievable.
The Toma_Hawk:
I can't speak for Stanley Clarke, or Pierre Yevs for that matter... but, the Toma_Hawk Bass is that next evolutionary step beyond the Short Body design for me. The Toma_Hawk is my dream bass, yet it follows and honors legacy of the Alembic Short Body's curves, horns, and top crown. The subtle changes of the Toma_Hawk -- along the lower ends makes a huge playable and favorable differences in comparison to my 1976.
Some may think, it takes a famous Artist to validate their interests/ideas. Well, if this was something I believed, (which... it isn't) the Toma_Hawk wouldn't exist in the first place, and the chances are, I would be still waiting.
But, what I find most interesting:
The best ideas comes from, the people/groups you would least expect....
The best ideas, comes from people like you. It's true.
I can't tell you how many emails I received from other bassist who provided technical, and musical support for the Toma_Hawk.
Finally, there's no accident why the Toma_Hawk plans are bestowed in trusted hands of Mica, Susan, Ron and The Dynamically Awesome Alembic Staff -- Its home, where it should be...
With this in mind, Toma_Hawk can't be anything but an awesome Alembic Bass for me, and that is the best news my heart can't express with this thread alone.
Mica, Ron and Susan know my joys beyond the Internet, and written words here. They seen so many people express their joys in so many ways and still counting, and its because we are so amazed by such talent, workmanship, and most importantly -- they care to listen with care.
My cheers are to Alembic!
PS...
I have my popcorn popped every Thursday/Friday -- at the close of business (COB) ready for the high 5's for those who can feel the magic unfolding with Mica's picture of progress!!!!
Peace to all -
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 11, 2009)
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[A Size Comparison] The bass to the right, (The Toma_Hawk) is a rendering copy from the actual picture of an Alembic Short Body Cocobolo (shown to the left). I was also curious how The Toma_Hawk would look if it was a Cocobolo wood grain. Perhaps, in the future, I will have a Cocobolo Tommy, but first things, first...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70300.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70301.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 12, 2009)
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God save us
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Part of Gods plan might be letting us have Alembics; Instant Karma for the good Children Of The Universe. A reward perhaps?
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I could come back hard, but I have too much love for the good people here, and I respect the teachings of my parents to comment.
So I will just say:
God bless you too Pierre...
...For I will just pick up my cross, and carry on with my blessings...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 12, 2009)
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Here's another perspective...
Obviously, the picture of the model playing the bass loves the sounds, which requires the method(s) of: thumping, and popping and in order to execute this technique effectively, the bass player does something with his entire body, before using his hammer like, swinging arm and hand.
Notice where he positions his legs and upper torso in somewhat of a forward and downward bending position... this gives him (2) important physical objectives: 1. Stability, and 2. Balance while in that position, his arm and hand are closest to the bridge.
I call this: The Bass Attack Position for obvious reasons.
Therefore, when it comes to funk, and the nature of this style of playing, The Toma_Hawk Bass will be my definitive, and quintessential tool. This is my hybrid; for it is the first bass I can soon honestly say, was designed for thumping and popping with best intentions.
When it comes to thumping and popping basses, I desire less wood restricting my forearms, and wrist motions, but importantly, with the Alembic Series style, sound, quality and engineering which makes this bass above my wildest dreams in owning.
Simply speaking: The Toma_Hawk Bass is my Make no apologies; take no prisoners; and make no excuses thoroughbred bass designed for THE FUNK and everything that is left-over...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70372.jpg)
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The Funk
The Whole funk
Nothing but the funk.
Hey, not sure if it's something I missed in one of your concept development threads, but are you having the neck pickup closer to the end of the neck like Clarkee does or further back as on the signature basses which i presume would give you more space for popping and presumably a brighter tone off the neck pickup.
Also I wondered if you had worked out the relationship between the position of the bottom of the neck, the bridge and the body length to allow the natural position for your slapping thumb to be in your preferred location.
I imagine that for any given bass/body you could ask alembic to position say the 24th fret to be further into the body, allowing first position to be easier to reach which would involve moving he bridge further back in the body and allow you to slap over the base of the neck or you could ask them to move the 24th fret further away from the body than normal allowing slightly longer stretch to 1st position but allowing your thumb to be placed off the neck. So if you did this on two different basses of the same design and a constant strap position your thumb would be in a different place on both basses and ignoring the tone controls etc, would give you a different default tone due to where your thumb naturally fell. I hope I'm making sense.
I'm not sure if that's clear but for a sort of example.
Mark King has his bass virtually under his armpit and that position allows his forearm to be almost parallel with the strings and his thumb to be naturally over the bottom of the fretboard which is where he does his slap thing. His slapping tone is much thinner and toppier and more percussive.
Clarkee has his bass in a lower positon and has a wider angle between his arm forearm and the strings and his thumb naturally falls between the bottom of the neck and the neck pickup which would I think give him a meatier and more bassy tone.
If he had his bass in the same position as Mark he'd be slappng at the nut.... ( I jest) . He would be slapping higher up the lower end of the neck and have a brighter default tone.
I know when on gigs I'm supposed to be concentrating on the music but today I was doing quite a bit of slapping and was trying to work out why i find slapping more comfortable on my SC than my Europa and so this sort of came to mind.
I prefer not to slap over the neck as I find the sound too thin for me. So when I use my sc, my thumb fortunately falls between end of neck and neck pickup. However on my Europa the natural position of my thumb is over the bottom of the neck so I have to move my arm backwards to get it between the neck base and neck pickup which i am conscious I have to do when playing.
So to cut a long story short, I just wondered that since your bass has been designed for your particular style of slapping etc if your design took those variables into account so that when you pick up the bass your thumb falls naturally into your sweet spot.
Sorry for the long thread.
I'm off to bed.....zzzzzzzz
Jazzyvee
(Message edited by Jazzyvee on September 13, 2009)
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Good question Jazzyvee...
Susan lead the discussion on this very question last March on whether the pickup (neck pickup) would be closer to the neck than the norm.
Based upon Susan's suggestions, I was in total agreement with having the pickup close to the neck, as possible.
Fortunately for me, that questions was not very difficult because my 1976 Shorty's pickup was perfectly positioned for hand and thumb. My neck pickup on my shorty is 0.59 inches (14.94 mm) to the 24th fret. (As shown below...)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70383.jpg)
As for the Toma_Hawk, the neck pickup will be even closer for reasons mentioned, but also factors related to the mere size of the bass as well. So when I do feel the surge to thump and pop, my thumb is almost always over the neck pickup. As for the neck pickup height, it's plum and even with the ebony fingerboard. Therefore, it sits just a hair below the height of the 24th fret. Thus, when I pop and thump, my strings never make contact with the pickup itself. However from glance, you might think the strings and pickups collide or come into contact... but this is not the case.
When it comes to a bass groove, I prefer more punch, and crunch (at the front)similar to the definitions and timing of a Mark Adams. Which reminds me, to mention that Mark too, played Alembics. Here's a very rare picture of Mark Adams taken from the 70's, with the Group Slave.
By the way, the S1 Mark is playing an Alembic bass that looked exactly like my first. Clearly, this bass holds a presences, and the sound was awesome too. A bass that big, and heavy, had to sound good .
The notes from the bridge pickup are much darker and deep, and yet very melodic and smooth when running a flurry of rhythmic funky fills. Therefore, I will accept best practices as to where the bridge pickup is placed.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 13, 2009)
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Would it be prudent to bring in new experiments with sliding pickup design ?
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I would encourage an improvement Sonicus. Go for it.
However, if you are referencing sliding pickups for the Toma_Hawk, that would totally be out of scope with production, and my necessity.
Keep in mind...
New experiments with sliding pickups, would be classified as a project in the areas of research and development. Also, prior to R&D for this new concept for sliding pickup, should require a feasibility study first, and then, an acceptable design. Anyway, it would equal to a lot of money.
However, there are always an easier and cheaper approach...
Take an old bass, and start routing a larger area which enable your pickups to slide, then purchases Alembic pickups, electronics, and pots and make notes of your observations.
On a positive note, I do think it make sense to build a custom guitar to fit any desire. On a fun note, I think I seen a bass with a bottle opener too, and as wild as that seems it still makes sense because playing the bass can dehydrate you to the point of craziness if you see a bottle and no opener...
Good Luck.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 14, 2009)
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a
(Message edited by Jazzyvee on September 14, 2009)
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Hi toma hawk01
I have a pending project that I might consider to do that with. I have a Bass and some pickups already that would be functional as components for such an experiment. I would need to work on a solid slide rail design that the pickups would slide on that would not fail and get in the way of creativity. The ultimate design could incorporate a servo controlled rack and pinion position and height rail. controlled by a lockable dual concentric potentiometer located on the face ( top) of the instrument maybe next to the pickup selector switch. Perhaps a more simple design would be better that would require you to relocate the position and height manually would be less problematic. Sorry I am just thinking out loud here again !
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Didn't this puppy have adjustable pickup positions?
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70388.jpg)
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Yes . This Bass the Great #1 did have adjustable pickup position!
I love this Bass ! But look at how the pickups are mounted. I don't know how much of a height height adjustment was possible with that design. I would love to check this bass out up closer now and play it, I used to see Jack play this Bass. I have seen it from only 3 feet away but that was in the mid 1970's. This Bass had an awesome sound especially after the super-filter modifications. You can really hear it on SUN FIGHTER and 30 SECONDS OVER WINTERLAND.
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I would have to see a finish product of a adjustable pickup system.
Personally, I don't think you could design an adjustable pickup system without including the height adjustment too.
Adding a sliding pickup rail system is one thing, but somehow, you are going to need to adjust the height of the rails too.
What about multiple pickups... will they each have a separate rail and height adjustments?
Lastly, what will it look like when complete?
Esthetically speaking, if it don't have look's to kill for you, then perhaps such projects from the past may had been killed for the same or similar reasons.
However, if this is your custom, and you want something like this for your sanity and comforts, then by all means please do this in peace. I am sure it could be done, and probably there may be solutions like similar to a kit you could install.
But far as my Alembic(s) going under the knife to have something like this...
Sorry man -- I don't have your guts, I can't get on that ride -- it spins to fast, and I'll get too dizzy.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 14, 2009)
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Hi toma hawk01
In my posting 346 I mention RACK AND PINION POSITION AND HEIGHT RAIL .
Yes Sir , of course you need a height adjustment . I might be working with a CAD program with a friend to illustrate and show dimensions. I think 2 versions would be in order ; one with servo control and one manual adjustable ,perhaps with an Allen wrench or knobs. At any rate this would be months or even a year or so in the future if I pursue it. It should work but it might look like a project out of a robotics contest in the prototype stages , lol lol lol !!!!
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Here's two simple ideas I can share for this discussion... (while waiting for more progress on the Toma_Hawk...) The bass on the left, show's no pickups... but they hide them behind the bass and adjustments could be done away from the viewing public, or just have one big huge cover... But there are flaws "big-time" in both! But there's always a way to solve engineering. If my memory serves me, I believe the the first of olders renditions of the Spellbinder bass (created by Stanley Clarke and Tom Lieber) had a huge Somewhat "cloaking" cover over their pickups. (similar to the bass render, on the right). Perhaps Tom could horn in, and personally explain their reasons for changing back to traditional pickup display and adjustments methods... Perhaps there are engineering hurdles or something else... I believe, if this is your quest, it is a good one. Please update me.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70396.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70397.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 14, 2009)
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Jazzyvee --
Funk only and only necessary...
My desires for the Toma_Hawk Bass, are on the same scale as this duel...
Boosty and the The famous Space Bass.
I am still waiting for somebody to make an action figure of him and that wonderful bass of the 70's.
Marvel Comics, DC, McFarlene -- somebody... please.
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Here is an alternative to a sliding pickup, sliding pole pieces on the bridge pickup on this Leiber Entwhistle explorer bass
http://www.lieberguitars.com/basses/entwistle-explorer/ (http://www.lieberguitars.com/basses/entwistle-explorer/)
(http://alembic.com/club/messages/631/70423.jpg)
Jazzyvee
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Here's the covered (Cloaked) pickup system from Lieber/Clarke from their first push of the Spellbinder the 80's...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70429.jpg)
I never seen an owner of a company (by a person who's considered the best in the world), who creates their own tool, and yet uses another tool almost 100% of the time...
This has got to be the best honest endorsement of a company I ever seen.
Conclusion:
Alembics are the Greatest Basses in the world.
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Very interesting, but not Alembic.
I wonder how much of a height adjustment this Lieber sliding pole piece pickup has?
(Message edited by sonicus on September 16, 2009)
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The Star Bass solve PU's positioning in its own way. It got several PUs side-by-side and you simply has to choose wich one you will turn on...
But I think it is better to have them in proper position to fit your desired tone, than lots of PUs causing phase cancelations to deal with. Sliding PU seems a good idea to find a sweet spot, but whenever you finaly reach it, why to keep it moving? To miss it, may be?
Well, I can think in one good reason to have one single sliding PU and no eletronics at all. That way you could avoid phasing issues and could also adjust the tone just moving its place instead of filtering frequencies. This could be probably better to keep the signal flowing free and clean, but I don't know how quickier (and safe) it could be rather than using more traditional ways. Sometimes let the wires stretching and bending while moving PUs isn't the better way to keep it working fine for years.
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From an engineering perspective, the slots are prone for dirt, oils, and liquids. I would also be concerned about the slots losing friction. What if you're thumping-slapping and popping a bass with this system, if the poles are not or not capable of locking down, the shock and vibration from the attacks, would eventually move the poles out of position.
I truly believe this is a reasonable assumption, and I assume this problem, was probably more apparent if the sliding-pole pickups were placed on the neck, instead of the bridge. That's probably why the pickups are limited to the bridge location only in the first place.
I think a better system dawns if this is a must have solution. But for me, I think the problems it positionally creates, are simply not worth the time.
Therefore, after assessing the above example, I am not curious nor interested in a sliding pickups anymore. The court adjourns, check mate, game, bingo, and call the Apollo Theater Sand Man.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 15, 2009)
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Here's another prototype of the a hidden pickup system created by Lieber and Clarke.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70448.jpg)
I suspect this earlier prototype was synthesizer capable. Notice the black box below... I suspect the pickups are inside that thing...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70449.jpg)
The back cover gives me the creeps...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70450.jpg)
So, there you have it... After all that, this bass ends up looking like this: Exposed pickups... Finally!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70451.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 15, 2009)
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Hal, that hidden pickup system looks like the Lightwave system, which is an optical pickup.
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A Digital Bass (A droid bass) !
I'll pass.
The last thing I would need is something that says:
Fragile -- Handle with care, delicate parts...
This would block my desired inflictions on a bass like this one! A bass that can't possibly handle speed bumps when I am driving it, will stay parked.
I would love to hear this bass while -- under attack with thumping, slapping, snapping, and popping...
[Of which...] -- I don't even believe it's capable of producing a rich bass attack sound.
I need proof.
Therefore, if it can't funk, it's must stays in the trunk.
Don't get me wrong, I do think it's a great technology for guitars, but making something like this without considering the value of a Funk Bass is crazy, -- it's pure insanity.
I sentence the optical bass the electric chair!
Court Adjourned!
Now, where's my Toma_Hawk?
[Now, back to our regular broadcast stations...for the truth, can't be televised.]
It's just the Jester in me...
Peace,
Hal-
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 16, 2009)
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Routed:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70481.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70482.jpg)
Still much carving to do before the sealer coats and then the looong wait while finish completes. Just trying to prepare you!
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Mica, Susan, Ron, Mary and the Alembic Faculty...
Thank you...
Thank you...
Thank you...
This is the most beautifulest musical instrument I ever seen, and it ain't even done yet.
Mica, I am lost for words... I have to take it all in...
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Awesome ! And only from ALEMBIC !
I am also happy for you Mr,toma hawk01 !
Such awesome creations are always worth a celebration !
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Thanks Wolf.
I am still frozen in shock.
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see Hal, i told you she would turn out just fine :-D
~Taylor Watterson
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Hal... I got so excited and anxious when I saw these pics... It actually gave me goosebumps.
And this bass isn't even going to be mine!
Congratulations, really. Congratulations.
Runner-up for the baddest bass competition. Of course, no one can beat mine...
Greg
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Wow - AWESOME! Truly one of a kind!
Nice to see your vision coming together.
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Taylor, thanks for the condolences. I can't believe it man... You said be cool, and you were so right my friend. My nerves are all rattled with positive emotions of joy. It's truly unbelievable.
Not even Kanye West could take this moment of happiness from me... Let him try!
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Greg, you still got the baddest bass I ever seen...
That's real.
Enjoy it while it last, because The Toma_Hawk will be coming out to play-eeeee!
Also, I love your music Greg. Thanks for posting it. It was very tasty man.
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I just wish my Mom was alive to see this.
You only get a few bright moments in a life time, and this is surly one of them.
You just can't forget moments like this. No way.
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Toma_Hawk Spirit #3 frequency with of The Alembic Mothership, was successful. Soul transmission to the Toma_Hawk assembly had finished...
Toma_Hawk01, had received 100% of the Red Ship's soul transfer, deep from outer space. The life forces of the Red ship created the pulse of life to the Toma_Hawk01.
Only (2) more Toma_Hawk Spirits left, before the Body electric Toma_Hawk can depart the Alembic Mothership, and report for duty in spreading peace and love to the world with low frequencies...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70486.gif)
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Hal,
Congratulations. I can see that when you have a vision, you pursue it relentlessly into reality. Despite those who have acted as naysayers to your very personal design, you have maintained a determinedly positive outlook and demeanor. I applaud your ability to make your ambitions into reality. Best of health and happiness to you.
Kevin
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Holy Moe. I am nearly speechless. This might take the all time cake for combined beauty, originality, and outrageousness.
My only question is whether it will still balance nicely w/ the slightly smaller than normal body. But then all those S2 electronics will probably even things out
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Kevin, first let me thank you for your kinds words.
Secondly, The Toma_Hawk is real now. Everything that was said negatively, is water flowing under the bridge. I hold no grudges.
It's a new day, I am staying positive.
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Thanks Paul!
I am happy we share tastes in shapes.
The Toma_Hawk bass will be balanced. There are no issues of concerns for me.
My current bass is a SI short scale, Short Body, and I love the balance, they are not for everybody. There are people who love Big Omega Bodies, who probably could find issues with my short scale's balance. It comes down to personal preferences.
Strap pins play a big roll in balancing most basses. However, when I play, I normally control the bass with my left hand (holding the neck), and right forearm (holding the body in place).
An overly weighted bottom (body) may be ideal to some, but not for me.
The Toma_Hawk is an Alembic Series I with a Master volume.
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Very cool....
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OH yeah!
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Talking about balance... Wich Neck Shape it will have?
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Love the vermillion, good choice.
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The Toma_Hawk Short Scale Neck
Neck Measurements:
Nut width = 1.60 in
1st Fret Thickness = 0.80 in (Flat neck where the thumb is positioned to fingerboard)
17th Fret Thickness = 0.96 in (Flat neck where the thumb is positioned to fingerboard)
24th Fret width = 2.15 in
Broomstick Quick!
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I love it- I wasn't a big fan of the body shape when I first saw it in your photo renderings, but seeing the bass in the last set of photos has changed my mind. I love the sharp upper horns and the symmetry of the bass.
Well done!
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What an original bass (and that is quite a compliment cosidering the each an every Alembic bass is different)
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Simply Breathtaking Hal Holy S#%!!!!!! I can't get over how nice a bod shape you have designed. I knew it was gonna be purdey but that is awesome!! Lucky man you are.
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Hal,
well this turns out to be a cool and unique bass!
Oliver (Spyderman)
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Computer simulation models time...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70525.jpg)
The Toma_Hawk was originally black, and was smaller. The body would eventually get slightly larger, but still smaller than the Short Body.
On color, the newer brick red tone color, (Vermilion) has a warmer/earthly look.
My many thanks goes out to Susan, who suggested Vermilion wood (also known as Padauk).
The pickups are favorably corrected for balance and symmetry for the controls.
By the way, Mica came up with the Arrow head control pattern. Perfect for a bass called: Toma_Hawk!!!
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Ok, it's Friday and to show how much of a good sport I am, I will reveal the shapes people said the Toma_Hawk resembled over the 7 months it been reveled to the public...
1. A woman's swim suit
2. The Highway Sign of Route 66
3. A Police badge
4. The outline of the Tasmanian Devil cartoon
5. An Alembic Small Body Smiling
6. A Pit Bull's jaws and ears
7. A Whale Harpoon
8. A baby Gellyfish
9. A baby Octopus
10. Stitch's Space ship (From Lilo and Stitch cartoon)
11. A woman with a nice sweater...
12. A table lamp from the Victorian era
13. A Diamond
14. A Heart
15. A Car with racing stripes
16. Squidworth's head (Sponge Bob's friend)
I just think it looks Beautiful.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 19, 2009)
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write, write, write... sleep ? Peace
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Pierre,
I love your basses too. You are a very lucky man. I am very happy for you too.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 18, 2009)
(Message edited by davehouck on September 25, 2009)
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Vann-Di, I truly love all the shapes that leaves the Alembic factory floors.
Maybe one day, I will have one of every shape and of different configurations.
That's why I keep my dollar in the office Lottery pool
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 18, 2009)
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Thanks Smokinbear,
Like I said when I first seen Mica's pictures, I was literally frozen in animated suspension. The bass was too real to be true, they did it... They'd pulled it off with flying colors.
When something cool takes you away from your worldly problems for a second, and it strikes a pleasure sensory in your brain, that's a great thing. That's real.
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Hey Oliver, it's even harder on me now... I can't wait to hold it... and play it until I can't help myself. That's what playing real music is all about!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 19, 2009)
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Smoking is prohibited,
Keep arms inside the ride at all times,
Silent all personal hand-held devices,
Parent, keep children seated during performance,
Use Buckles and harnesses,
Please, no flash photography,
If you need to leave, used the side exit doors,
Silents is golden, so please be courteous and quiet,
Remove hats or objects that may get lost,
Please take the farthest seat to your right,
And now for Our Feature Presentation...
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[moderator's edit: where the amount of messages one receives in an email inbox is certainly an important concern, this thread is not the appropriate venue]
(Message edited by davehouck on September 25, 2009)
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Well, it's on with the show!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 25, 2009)
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Back in carving-land:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70832.jpg)
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Greg
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WOW!!!!!!!!
This is the first time I ever laid eyes on the back side of the Toma_Hawk, and it looks absolutely Amazing. Oh my goodness!
Thank you again Mica for this very wonderful picture. Your team is doing a magnificent job!
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Toma_Hawk Spirit #4 frequency with of The Alembic Mothership, was successful. Soul transmission to the Toma_Hawk assembly had finished...
Toma_Hawk01, had received 100% of the Green Ship's soul transfer, deep from outer space. The life forces of the Green ship created the pulse of life to the Toma_Hawk01.
Only (1) more Toma_Hawk Spirits left, before the Body electric Toma_Hawk can depart the Alembic Mothership, and report for duty in spreading peace and love to the world with low frequencies...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70849.gif)
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Well,
tha Toma seems to become a mean little bass.......
Love it...
Oliver (Spyderman)
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Nice,nice,nice!!!! Can't wait to see more pics, that is a very purdy back side.
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Honestly, I was hoping for a action shot...
and there it is... Cool-Cat-Cool!
The human element, depicted in Mica's photo, provides the human touch, it also provides both size, and scale of any bass.
I am one of those people when at family gatherings, people almost instinctively know I have my camera strapped, and clicking ready.
On moments like those, there's always someone who jokingly, and yet purposely, doge my clicks.
As this bass moves toward the seasons of fall, and also the not too distant holiday's ahead, I can't help but hope Mica would take more pictures of the Toma_Hawk with the Alembic staff and family, if possible.
It tells the story better.
Just a honest request.
Peace-
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 26, 2009)
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Picture on the right, is an angular recreation drawing of the Toma_Hawk bass control's lower cavity area.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70871.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70872.jpg)
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I don't like the Tomahawk shape at all, but that's OK. As long as one gets what one is looking for, that's all that matters in the end. I'm sure it will be an awesome bass for you. As it should be, I think!
Alan
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Alan,
This will be an awesome bass period.
I am glad you have a bass you could feel proud that was built for you, because that would be a shame to desire something that can't be made.
And of course, there are people who don't share your same tastes and I say to them, as you would say: WHO CARES.
Thank you for your honesty, nonetheless.
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A thing of beauty is a joy for ever:
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness; but still will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.
Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o'er-darkened ways
Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits.
-John Keats
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Dieu qu'il la fait bon regarder
La gracieuse, bonne et belle !
Pour les grans biens qui sont en elle,
Chascun est prest de la louer.
Qui se pourroit d'elle lasser?
Tousjours sa beaut? renouvelle.
Dieu qu'il la fait bon regarder,
La gracieuse, bonne et belle !
Par de?a ne dela la mer,
Ne s?ay dame, ne damoiselle
Qui soit en tous biens parfais telle;
C'est un songe que d'y penser.
Dieu, qu'il la fait bon regarder!
Charles d'ORLEANS (1394-1465)
I'm feeling to write tonight....
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Ce qui ?tait beau Pierre.
Alambics de toutes formes sont belles pour moi.
Peace mon fr?re!
Translation:
That was beautiful Pierre.
Alembics of all shapes are beautiful to me.
Peace my brother!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 27, 2009)
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All great achievements require time.
Maya Angelou
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je ne suis pas ton fr?re heureusement !
toutes les Alembic sont belles ? non, seulement les SC et les MK pour mon go?t !
smack
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Pierre,
I am happy you found your bass. That is wonderful, man! (It really is...)
As for me calling you my brother, I apologize. It was my gesture to support mutual solidarity, with good intentions as a member of this club that unites us.
Perhaps my tendency to believe too readily, and therefore to be easily deceived to think I could extent an olive branch after reading your thread from Charles d'Orleans exposes my naivete.
You are indeed relentless and holds the qualities of a very troubled human being Pierre.
These words will be my last, said to you...
I wish you peace, please do not post any more comments on my FTC.
Please respect my wishes.
Thank you.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 27, 2009)
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Hakeem,
This is the same guy who told me it was indecent of me to have an Alembic in Iraq when I served there. I'd take anything he has to say with a grain of salt if I were you.
Alan
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Hakeem,
Here's the link to the discussion I refer to. Form your own opinion.
Alan
http://club.alembic.com/Images/411/30448.html?1167897247 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=8881)
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Alan; Hal and I, and Pierre-Yves and I, have already had email discussions on this issue. I am hopeful that this issue will not come up again, and will no longer be discussed on this board.
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[moderator's edit: My apologies; apparently I wasn't clear. What I meant to say is that I do not wish to see any more posts where one member casts aspersions upon another.]
(Message edited by davehouck on September 27, 2009)
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Dave,
I agree. That's why I posted the link, and counseled Hakeem to form his own opinion.
Alan
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David,
I had already asked Pierre to honor my request in not posting on my FTC. Hopefully, it will be honored.
Other that that, its water under the bridge. I just can't wait to have my awesome bass and be happy like all of you guys if this is possible...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 27, 2009)
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Hal wrote:
I had already asked Pierre to honor my request in not posting on my FTC.
Gee, I thought this site belonged to Alembic. What do I know?
Bill, tgo
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Bill wrote:
Gee, I thought this site belonged to Alembic. What do I know?
I don't own this site, nor did I make demands as if I did. One could only ask others for the right to enjoy ones experience to enjoy the makings of their dream bass (if this is at all even possible) Only time will tell.
I will not hold my breath... LOL!
Bill, welcome to part 2 of Toma_Hawk Experience!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 27, 2009)
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Lol.... YOUR FTC !!! Bye myx love, you will stay alone.
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Mother, mother
There's too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There's far too many of you dying
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today - Ya
Father, father
We don't need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer
For only love can conquer hate
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me, so you can see
Oh, what's going on
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Ah, what's going on
In the mean time
Right on, baby
Right on
Right on
Father, father, everybody thinks we're wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply because our hair is long
Oh, you know we've got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today
Oh
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me
So you can see
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Tell me what's going on
I'll tell you what's going on - Uh
Right on baby
Right on baby
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Man I just don't get it! Hal, your just trying to enjoy the process of watching your bass be built and, WHAM!!!!! Mean people suck!! I am fan numero uno of your bass and it's origionality, in fact i'm down right jealous of your creativity, i think the world will be a better place when the Toma Hawk is making sweet low notes in your hands. Why can't others share in this joy??? Oh i know it's cause mean people suck!!!!! But i guess what comes around goes around and all the haters, well lets just let them take care of themselves(karma can be such a bitch!!!!) peace and low notes.........Bear
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Bear, you are right.
The FTC portion of Alembic.com is MONEY. Meaning, it's the most happening spot on this entire site. The FTC, is my favorite area period.
From the time I got my membership, my eyes were glued to those lucky people who were having their customs made.
Right before my eyes, I would be right there cheering them on, and feeling great as the magic unfolded, from a simple block of wood.
Along with reading the overwhelming expressions of joy from people showing their gratefulness, and graciousness, (on both sides) they taken possession of their dreams.
For me, its wonderful to see people happy -- and why not, GOD had blessed me with the capacity of this joy... I will uses it.
Even before there was a Toma_Hawk FTC, for over (3) years, I was an on-looker on the Alembic workshop windows, and seeing all the magic and I don't recall ever responding on someones FTC threads in a negative way. In fact, I will go as far and say, I never was negative on a FTC. If someone could show me where I had been negative of a FTC, I will leave Alembic as my own punishment and wrongness. No worries here.
What you would find is, on occasions -- I would sing from the lyrics of Sammy, Dean, and Frank of my favorite standards just as an attempt, release my joy of a job well done for the makers and the recipient of those yummy gee-tars .
There was even a guy who was lucky enough to find and purchase a very rare vintage Alembic guitar. In honor, I offered my congratulations.
It's like, if I am running a race on the track, and someone else got to the finish line before me, I am happy for the winner, because I learned, something about her/his technique which aided her/his swiftness. How can I criticize a winner if s/he didn't cheat?
Hating will take you down -- all by itself. People think, by holding grudges help them get through the day... it will only consume them. Don't take my word for it... I know this for myself, and stopped.
Nothing competes with good work, and charity we offer each other. I try, lord knows I try and sometime I fall flat on my face trying and I'm going to keep trying...
Thanks Bear!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 29, 2009)
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Right on , Baby. Keep gettin it on! Love the thread, Love the Bass, Love the third spirit of Toma_hawk sending me groovy vibes in my Inner City Blues
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In other words:
Smoking is prohibited,
Keep arms inside the ride at all times,
Silent all personal hand-held devices,
Parent, keep children seated during performance,
Use Buckles and harnesses,
Please, no flash photography,
If you need to leave, used the side exit doors,
Silents is golden, so please be courteous and quiet,
Remove hats or objects that may get lost,
Please take the farthest seat to your right,
And now for Our Feature Presentation...
(Enjoy the show!)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 29, 2009)
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So far, Toma_Hawk01, had received 90% of the Blue Ship's soul transfer, deep from outer space. With 10% remaining of The life forces of the Blue ship, the pulse of life to the Toma_Hawk01 just started.
With only your special X-Ray computer screens, we can take a peak of the Toma_Hawk01 transformation.
This bass can't wait to get Funky!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71008.gif)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 30, 2009)
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IT'S ALIVE !!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT'S ALIVE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Hey Wolf! Back to the adjustable pickups issue... I was checking out what Lewis Johnson was playing Norton Basses these days, and sure enough the pickups are on a rail system. The components looks just like we predicted... Looks like something -- right from the movie "Terminator"
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71019.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71020.jpg)
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What a contrast from Alembics and something that looks like braces on teeth.
Alembics are much more Organic Natural. The Norton basses appearance looks very esthetically mechanical in nature. Cyborg like. I am not saying its ugly, it's just an extreme and very radical looking for me. But it solves an issue for people, so in my book, that's cool.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 30, 2009)
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That's really interesting from a mechanical engineering angle , I agree that the wood in this Bass design is not allowed to reveal the spirit of the beautiful tree prevail for human appreciation . The projection of spirits from the earth prevail and the beauty of the wood speaks to you in the ALEMBIC product. I do indeed prefer the Alembic way. I think that there is a way that a progressive technological approach can be mastered as Alembic does already in the SERIES I & II with the addition of a new improved sliding pickup design . I completely agree with your statements regarding the aesthetic nature of the NORTON product. Thanks for showing these images . I am intrigued by the technological exchange in this thread between us, Very positive _ as it should be . Thanks .
Wolf ____
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The Gibson Grabber PUP was on an adjustable rail wasn't it?
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You are correct .It was adjustable, however ; I will leave it at your discretion as to any critique of it's design, The picture tells the story.(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71031.jpg)
(Message edited by sonicus on October 01, 2009)
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Wolf, I think I like the rails covered, but I never been a fan of pick guards with or without sliding pickups. I like a naked looking bodied guitar and bass (no pick guards please...)
However at the same time, I like the Gibson design better that anything I seen so far.
According to this picture, I still don't see where Gibson resolved the problem of pickup height adjustments. Maybe it can, but I can't see it...
All I can see, are (2) screws holding (mounting) the pickup in place. I am sure there are (2) additional screws (not shown in the picture) serving the same function..
With the Norton, the solution is evident and very clear (Yes, you can adjust the height of the pickups...)but make sure you don't having hanging objects that might get caught in the gaps of the pickup system...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 01, 2009)
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Agreed NO pick guards! Imagine a facsimile of the Norton rail system in an ALEMBIC design Bass with ALEMBIC pickups and SERIES
II electronics. How about in a Standard Point or any other body shape of your dreams ? I know that you have pointed out that you do not care for the opened design of he Norton . I think that one could limit that some what .
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I totally see your point.
All Alembic Series electronics...on a Norton and with red lights on the neck?
Now, that's a thought.
The Terminator Bass!
I would have to go to sleep with my room lights on, if I had a bass like that!
Seriously, I think it would be great, and totally awesomely interesting. I do think its worthy of a serious thought. There's this metropolis sterile vibe that is cool. I think if any object could get me to look twice, it's good. This would be a looker for sure. But I think, the acoustics might pose a problem. With all that metal, you might also have problems with bad RF.
These are the things that I would question and must be pursued, and answered. But I think a cyborg looking bass, is what you'll get, but be ready to answer on-lookers same questions of intrigue every time you take it out of the case.
Hey, with lights in the pickup cavity flashing too -- would be a must!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 01, 2009)
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A bass with movable pick-ups? What's wrong with this one?
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71039.jpg)
Peter
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Peter, this bass was already factored in the discussion. If you go back a few posts (on this thread) we have the same picture.
However, being that this picture was shown again, it feels like, we'd come full circle. It would be nice to see this bass in a close-up.
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Wolf, check out this one...
The rails are smaller and almost unnoticed. The wood pickup, is a lovey touch without all the steel.
With a very flat pickup(s), this works the best.
Seeing a huge hollow rectangle on a guitar, is scary. But this design is much more of my taste if I was interested.
It looks like something like this would be more suitable for a more fingering style bassist. I am too buck wild for delicate basses of this form.
But, it looks good for what it does. It's the best I seen so far. But I am sure, my words are short lived. There's always a better ways to skin a cat, and I can't wait to see it!
However, when Mica jumps in with more pictures of the Toma_Hawk, it would be as if, sliding picks never happened, or I ever seen one... LOL
This is a great discussion.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 01, 2009)
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Yes ,____I agree a Bass for a finger style player with a some what light touch. Subtle harmonics , glissandos . two octave arpeggios. senior jaco perhaps ( Who loves you Jaco ) We DO !!!!
Hey you are right, it's not a bad 'LOOK check out that tail piece man ! like a Double Bass. I am just concerned about that bridge.
Who makes this instrument ?
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Hi Wolf,
This is why I love this site so much... I got this in an email and I wanted to share it...
I just had an epiphany...
For me, the best sounding bass for natural fingering, and finger sliding, is a fretless bass. So, if the fingers are able to slide smoothly, why enable a sliding pickup(s)?
This is truly the best tracking pickup sliding system I ever seen to date. In fact, it was built so well, you hardly noticed the rails at all. The builder used a clear plastic rail system which clearly looks better than metal rail systems. The flat plastic used, is very subtly applied not to take away the beauty of the wood. WELL DONE!
The bridge, the tail piece is absolutely gorgeous, for it holds on to the spirit and legacy design of all grand upright basses.
A very smooth touch in deed!
The decision to use a system like this one, on a fretless bass makes so much more sense, because fretless basses are more geared toward fingering forms and styles of playing. Unfortunately, I believe a system like this for a fretted bass, would not work. Fretted basses are built, and should be built to be played HARD, and I question whether something like this would be stable enough.
***A fretless pickup system emanates a new style of playing.
I can purely envision someone holding a note on the fret board, and simultaneously sliding the pickup just like a trombone player. Mark my words...
Again, I could be tempted for something like this on a fretless Alembic, if Alembic engineered a flat pickup system, I would remove theirs, and slap on the Alembic pickups. But even better, I would have a full fledged Alembic fretless bass made for the system. Now, that's the ticket!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 02, 2009)
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One more thing Wolf...
You could tighten the pickup on the rails while at the same time, adjust the height from within the pickup cradling system or container.
This concept to me, is almost impeccable!
GO WEST YOUNG MAN!
RUMBLE YOUNG MAN RUMBLE! (meaning: Keep on moving forward...)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 02, 2009)
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I think that is a cool concept and design, Thanks for sharing that Hal.
It is definitely a more Earthly design then the Norton.
This thread is becoming intensely creative with this showcase of progressive concepts. At this time I would also like to thank ALEMBIC for giving us this platform of creative communications between minds . I am enjoying this quite a bit.
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Well said Wolf!
I couldn't agree with you more.
Alembics (all Alembics) are the ultimate basses. Alembic basses are the best in the world.
Simply World Class [period].
Wolf, I had learned so much from your initial questions (challenge) of concern, and together we plowed through to see where it would take us.
And what a ride!
Not too long ago, the Toma_Hawk was only a concept too. I drawn this bass in my sleep and while wide awake. (You heard me say this a million times in a million ways...)
I believe designing something for yourself, can be torching, and extremely daunting. Heck, (I am laughing while I write this...) I could had just made my life easier, and simply walked and whistles happily to our friendly neighborhood Alembic dealer, pay the toll, be done with it...
Well, honestly I did this before, now it's time to take this life up a notch...
Alembic was there for me, and I am so proud of them for helping me reach closer to this goal.
Thank you Alembic!!!
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I wonder what the Toma_Hawk been up to these days?
I can only imagine from the last picture, it looks great!
I can't wait to see the progress. But, I will probably have to wait anyway...
Have a good weekend everyone, and may GOD bless.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 02, 2009)
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Got a sealer coat in place and we're working on the drilling template for the controls.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71101.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71102.jpg)
Nothing is drilled yet, and these are just set in place by eye. These match your custom control layout, but you still get a chance to see how everything lands in 3D and let us know if you need any adjustments before we drill. Email me with either your approval or request(s) for a change from the photo. Enjoy! (note the chalk line on the control side is a reference for the edges of the hollow core, it's a temporary, but necessary marking)
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Oh My Lord!
My eyes are having a stroke!
I can't stop looking at this thing!!!!
Its a site to truly behold... I'll email you, but for right now, I got to smell that fresh new bass sealer coat smell
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Sick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Me like , Me like Lots!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The pieces just fall into place in total harmony. Words were never a strong point of mine.... Beautiful man. I can't wait to see it after it gets a buff job. The symetry of the grains in the top bookmatch or whhatever you wanna call it just stand out and say someting to me(order your own custom???), not quite sure what this spirit of the toma hawk is trying to say but I like it , lots.... Lucky guy you are, Bear :-)
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The Five Spirits of The Toma_Hawk was 100% captured and transferred to The Toma_Hawk bass.
The Spirit #5 (Blue Ship) had successfully left Earth's obit, heading home. However, just before leaving onward, The Blue Ship made a special detour-correction of a moral nature, his karma was damaged, and required repairing before 5th spirit could return home.
After this was resolved, Spirit #5 (Blue Ship) happily left with the integrity it required to move through the harsh and dangerous environments of deep space.
With all the Spirits inside the Toma_Hawk, Alembic HQ uses it forces to calibrate, fine tune and permanently-irreversibility installs the elements of Alembic Legacy, and Integrity!
The Awesome Power of a Fully Operational Funk Bass!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71116.gif)
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What a difference a few days make!
The true colors of this bass is really showing with better clarity than ever. The wood, and color combination/coordinations are clearly depicted with no room for doubt:
This bass is gorgeous and the proper knobs for controlling the Toma_Hawk...had to be big, bold and rendezvous and a salute to the classic Alembic Series basses.
Keeping true to the classic Series Knobs, also esthetically gives this bass a very bold contrasts, and complements the colors in a very classical way.
Thank you Mica for adding the knobs, and allowing me one more chance to make slight adjustments before drilling. In all honesty, having this last chance to make adjustments, never really occurred in my mind. It just goes to show, how very considerate you are to make this bass with the greatest satisfaction possible. You are absolutely GOLDEN!
I followed up with an email, along with my very minor changes.
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Here are my edits...
The black spot, represents where the knobs were originally positioned.
The white arrows, represents the new locations where knobs (A and B) to be suggestively placed.
There's a black arrow which is denoted as C, where the 3-position Q-Switch would suggestively be placed...
Easy as ABC... (Slight slides of the hands, makes it just right...)
It looks great!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71121.jpg)
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I was just too tempted...
The Tail, Bridge, Strings, Pickups, Fingerboard, Frets, and (3) controls are simulated.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71156.jpg)
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Hey Hal I love the slight change to the knobs, it totally matches the symetry of the rest of the bass now that you moved stuff around. It almost looked like the layout(minus the star inlays) of the mission control bass. I am so stoked for you, this has basically become my homepage of late, usually the first thing i look at on the web when I sign on! Right on, right on!!!! Peace& Low notes Bear
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Smokeinbear,
Yea, I think things are really coming along, and I was really happy to had been given a heads up from Mica. That was great. Moving the knobs, gives appearance of a wider arrow shape and bringing the Q switch aligned, and centered with the adjacent controls makes a great difference.
This bass is Magical.
The wood colors of this bass, along with shape orientation, really moves the eyes to (5) magical locations:
1. The Top Horn
2. The Bottom Horn
3. The Top Wing (the area above the bridge pickup)
4. The Bottom Wing (the area below the controls)
5. The Pointed Tail-end
and you can see all five wood types, and colors in one camera angle.
Woods:
1. Vermillion
2. Maple
3. Mahogany
4. Purple Heart
5. Ebony
I always believed less is a lot. If you remember, I was going to have some chic pattern on the fingerboard, but I had felt the ebony wood itself was the chic pattern. With the black pickups, control knobs and darker finger board is more natural, and also totally essential to the bare-bone statement this bass makes.
On the other hand, if the bass was larger and a different theme, I probably would add inlays on the fretboard to complement the bass.
Maybe next time...
As for the ebony without inlays, it's more beautiful, and it contrast smoothly and seamlessly to the head, and down the body.
Bear, that was one of the best complement I heard about this bass. It was not to long ago, I had Stanley Clarke's Dragon Breath on my Windows computer; as a Desktop Background.
Once this bass is released for production, not only will I create an archive of pictures, I will be on a personal journey to allow artist to play it and learn their reactions of the magic!
Thanks Bear!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 04, 2009)
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Here's a recreation of the Toma_Hawk based upon the body....
I feel like an archeologist
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Very cool and amazing!
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Hey Hal I know it's your baby so i am just asking not suggsting, have you thought about the possibility of side mounting the 1/4 jack(if possible Mica?) and just having the 5-pin on the top?Also have you photo shopped a black 5-pin jack, might look cool with the pick-ups and q-switches etc. Either way you do it I love this instrument, truely a work of art!!! Bear
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Thanks Wolf, its getting there...
Bear,
In the beginning, we kicked around the idea of having the 1/4 jack on the side, and I didn't like it. It looked hidden and took away from the nostalgia of the Short Body pedigree. I also didn't like the idea of drilling through the core where a cord could rest up against the basses and possibly and potentially fracture the area around the hole. I will personally never own a Alembic with a hollowed core from the perimeter walls. I hope this makes sense...
So, as far a a primitive hammer/axe goes, The Toma_Hawk must keep things basic and respect the past. Therefore, it was decided to keep the 1/4 on the front just like my 76 Shorty.
As far as black 5-pin back plates goes, I think most of the new series basses have them installed. Again, I am old school with this bass. Don't get me wrong, I like the black plates, but I love the reflective virtues of a chrome metal shine my friend.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 05, 2009)
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Just 2 cents...
And what about moving the PU selector to the traditional place (on lower horn)? I'm guessing you are a slapper guy and thats why you choosed to move it first time, but seems a bit crowded there between bridge PU and Pots... Don't you think it could visualy balances better changing?
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Hi Mario,
You raise a very good question on the selector switch...
In the very beginning, like traditional series basses, the Toma_Hawk's selector switch was going to be on the bottom horn. However, because the potential risk in a person who styles of playing which includes slapping, thumbing, and strumming cords, Alembic proactively moved the selector switch away from areas where people would most likely collide with them. So, being that this bass was designed as my ultimate Funk bass, I would do anything to make sure when the bass was under attack, the bass didn't attack back...
As far as visually and balance, I like the arrow pattern far better than having the selector switch on the horn. You have to remember, the arrow pattern also brings balance to the eyes; also if you include all the controls (Q-switches), you will see the pattern of a star.
Also, this bass has the magical triangle. Just like when you are in the kitchen... The sink, stove and the refrigerator are within a few steps from each other... in complete harmony.
The first switch I come into contact, and the last, is the selector switch. This said switch is the top switch literally and figuratively speaking. Having the switch at the top and turning my bass on - off/on stand by, means let the show begin or Thank you, Good night.
But when it comes to personal decision as this issues, was not as easy, as I originally thought.
Heck, this goes for the whole bass in general...
Like I said, it's easier to pay the toll, and not be bothered by details. But I am a fool for details...
But the bottom line is: even if this was a larger body, I would still keep the same control layout.
... and with a larger body, it wouldn't be a Toma_Hawk. Therefore, it's like a perfect dog, chasing his own perfect tail.
There's more magic in the pattern than meets the eyes my friend.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 05, 2009)
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Every time I read this thread, I have to smile.
Looking good, Hal.
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That's great to know Altgrendel.
I will remember everybody's message from the Toma_Hawk threads. I remember you saying; you looked forward to see this bass in the FTC. That was back in February, on the second day of the announcement.
I had no idea how this bass would eventually evolve, but looking back, I love the transformation. Everything looks wonderful. Everything. The raw essentials are intact.
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Makes sensimilla to me.... By the way did i say how much I like the neck recipe on your bass? Gee I sure do like that neck on Hal's bass;-)
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Here's something I will probably save for memory sake...
This is a very close to scaled Toma_Hawk mock bass I made from Styrofoam.
The neck is real, from an older basses I scraped 25 years ago.
(Being a pack-rat pays off...)
The Toma_Hawk prop is good for (2) things:
1. Building a custom case, and
2. getting barrings on size and proportion and physical ranges of arms, limbs and fingers, while playing.
This mock Toma_Hawk has strap pins, and it's own strap.
If you are wondering if I tried it on for size... You better believe it!
Obviously, the neck's heaver than the Styrofoam body, but once the prop is around the shoulders, you really get a clear physical perspective in relationship to size and physical reach while mock playing.
Based upon my analysis with this mock bass:
I predict, the Toma_Hawk will differ from any bass I ever played and better than anything I ever played.
Just from the proportion, and the freedom the design provides, are very important clues toward understanding the greatness of this bass.
Enjoy the pictures...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 05, 2009)
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the Toma_Mock
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Toma_Hawk you sound like a child on Xmas eve,Happy as Hell.....when was the last time you slept???
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I'm not alone now to say what I think... sorry it's YOUR thread. Serialnumbertwelve, toma_hawk is sleeping at this time, I hope, because there is no answer here ;o) LOL
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I think that Toma_Hawk is exceptionally excited about his bass - and very rightly so. It is all from his head and imagination and he is seeing his dream brought to reality... what could be exciting than that?
People with negative opinions needn't post their thoughts - it really is as simple as that; and I for one do not see the need to be negative about someone else's ambitions and dreams - it is just an attempt to 'energy sap' and thankfully T_H seems to have his positive energy carefully guarded - others may have had their dream sullied somewhat and that would just be a shame.
T_H I think your bass looks great and I'm sure it will play great too; I also love your 'Jester Bass' concept too. Good health to you and I am really enjoying YOUR FTC thread.
Kindest regards.
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There's Nothing negative about my post, He's happy & it shows.......i would be just as excited & unable to sleep too if it were me!
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ok sorry, Dave delete my post please. I wrote a lol...
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'There's Nothing negative about my post, He's happy & it shows.......i would be just as excited & unable to sleep too if it were me!'
Absolutely! And I wasn't referring to your post Sir - your comment exudes positivity!
Regards.....
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Mean People Suck!!!!! Need I say more?? Why is this still going on here? I just don't get why anyone that see's and appreciates what goes on here with the Alembic family and all their magic could be in any way negative, it just boggles my mind. I think the excuse of language and culture differences has long been used up and that a certain individual (who I will refrain from naming) should chill out and PLEASE IF YOU DON'T HAVE ANYTHING NICE TO SAY.. STFU!!!!! IT'S THAT SIMPLE FOLKS. (Dave, I apologize if this is out of line, I'm just sick of the bad juju this person is bringing here. This is Hal's dream, how can anyone knock him for pursuing his right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness)
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#12, it feels like...
Disneyland in the 60's (when I was a kid)!!!!
It was hard going to sleep on those nights leading to having fun in a world of imagination.
Having this Toma_Hawk built does pull great moments in ones life. Music and musical instruments are universal tools, and I believe it's another channel to enter the souls of people.
Music is a great power and it heals the heart from earthy plights of wicket concepts, and evil intentions.
My father and late mother was responsible for implanting my musical spirit, and look to the past, and improve it (if possible). So, over time, Alembics basses was that improvement from any bass I ever played. The Toma_Hawk is yet taking it higher, but with the same support base.
The Toma_Hawk is my Disneyland!
PS...
My father finally figured out how to work his new Polaroid camera... The sky's were blue, so he has all the help... LOL!
I am the small old guy with the buttoned collar and the shirt properly tucked.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 07, 2009)
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Hal,
That's got to be one of the coolest pics of Disneyland happiness I have ever seen. Certainly brought a smile to my face.
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Thanks Tim,
Man, it's times like those, which are so short lived, you must stop, and give credit to the people who played a very positive roll in providing you a sense dignity and self respect, which you learn to protect from a world that is full of emotional instabilities. Never a day go by, I try to lift others spirits.
Today, I just leaned that my cousin suddenly died yesterday while under a kidney dialysis treatment. She was only 29 years old.
I am still getting up, and I will be there with her parents and use what I have to get them through this tough time.
Peace.
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Hal,
If I may say, my condolences to you and you family.
Sincerely,
Greg
ps. Your bass is looking soooooooo good.... Can't wait for more pictures.
Be strong.
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All man...,
Thanks Greg.
Mica's pictures run right through heart every time.
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i Googled 'toma_hawk' there's several links about your bass,also toma_hawk is a forged weapon to cut/Slaugter the enemy,so my guess is you'll be choppin folks heads off with funkbass lines that will just kill in groove situations! http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=toma_hawk&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&aqi=&oq=&fp=2cca7b2e99206b9c (http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=toma_hawk&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&aqi=&oq=&fp=2cca7b2e99206b9c)
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#12,
Don't think; feel. It's like a finger pointing away to the moon. Don't concentrate on the finger, or you will miss all the heavenly glory.
AWWWWEEEEHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
Bruce Lee-
Why trust the Internet, when the knowledge is here?
Yes, the Toma_Hawk is a FUNK bass pure and simple. It's the kind of music that we all smile and feel the heart and soul of the audience when we play. This bass is for people to get off the wall and dance, and be joyful. This bass is for getting grandma, and granddad remember how they uses to get down and funky!
I have a feeling this bass is being watch by some very powerful and beautiful people....
And that us!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 08, 2009)
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Hal, wonderful to see your bass take shape. It's stunning to see how (relatively) fast it evolves. A unique instrument that by far looks better to me than any mock up. If I'm honest I was seriously doubting if I was going to like it, but I love it! Good choice about the knob placement. I agree with a previous poster that it matches the shape / lines of the body much better now.
Wilfred
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Thanks Wilfred!
First rule - (tap, tap, tap...)
Actual objects must always look better than it's drawings.
Now, if you like the Toma_Hawk pictures from Mica, imagine the real thing in your hands...
Be honest...
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If I'm honest it feels like thinking about touching another woman, and since you have a blonde SSS1 for yourself you even decided to let go for similar reasons, you know that's a nono to keep the peace! Here's my Blondie: http://club.alembic.com/Images/411/10532.html?1254215816 (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=8389)
;-)
Wilfred
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Sure-you're-right Wilfred!
Man, your Blondie is gorgeous!!!
I was going to sell mine, but I found a new hope for it. My Toma_Hawk will be used for Performances and recording and my shorty will be used for technique building and work outs. She my Gym bass. Then when I get in the ring of fire, my Toma_Hawk will get the people in the groove.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 09, 2009)
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I'm going to show you 3 pictures. First, with the controls measured out and plotted to your picture:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71318.jpg)
Note the filter controls are differing distances from the edge of the body. You'll have to decide if this bothers you or not. The pickup selector feels very close to me as I expressed to you before. Next, with the focus of the pickup selector moved to give a little more comfort to the volume controls:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71319.jpg)
If you want to keep on straight lines, I think this change is needed or you will collide with the pickup selector when you want to adjust the volumes and vice versa. I wish I rotated that pickup selector in this photo to show the bass pickup selection like the others. I think you can still see there's a little more room this way when in position, so please be aware of this difference. Next, with the filters scoonched a little to give a little more room between the volume and filter controls which are dropped slightly to give an inkling more room between them and the pickup selector switch:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71320.jpg)
This is closer to the orignal mockup I made, measured out more carefully. Of course the knobs are still placed by eye (I need some clear knobs for mockups I see), but I think you can decide what is more important to you. If one of these layouts looks good to you, just tell me which one and we'll drill. There's only one chance to drill it right, so nothing else is happening until this is ironed out.
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Hi Mica,
First let me thank you for your responsive reply, I appreciate much assuredly and deeply.
Picture #2 is the best.
Mica, my choice for the best control layout for the Toma_Hawk Bass:
Drum roll please...
Picture #2 (the middle picture).
I like symmetry even better than my last edit.
With the lines drawn, it provides an even better perspective to space and I love the selector switch looks to be more centered with the pickup.
Picture #2 wins.
Drill at will...
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sorry to disturb YOUR thread Hal... for me the pickup selector is to close of the bridge pickup, you may change pick up by accident (I don't no in english). The jack output is really necessary ?? In case of non functionnaly 5 pin output ? If you delete jack output, you may have more place to redefine your knobs AND, If I was you, I will use smaller knobs... but it's not MY thread ;o)
I think, for this really small body, the best is to have only 5 pin output and get the pickup selector in the original place (like old serie I), and use small knobs.
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Hi Mica,
I am fixed with picture #2 as shown below.
Thank you.
Fire in the hole!
Thank you,
Hal-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71324.jpg)
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I had always been against side mounted jacks.
The strongest foundation of any bass, is its perimeter (side) walls.
One of the last thing I would ever do, or request, is have a hole along the sides of my basses.
Lessons learned from my Ibanez bass when it fell off its stand from me tripping over the cord.
There it was... a hair line fracture inside the inner cavity of the hole. Yeah, it was a freak thing, and I should had paid more attention to where things were, but finding that it cracked around the hole area and no place else, was just common sense, that a side hole weakened a once stronger wall, un-drilled or once untempered area -- thus now, prone for a clumsy guy like me, to trip and break. I am pretty sure if the side wall was not drilled, the bass would had been able to absorb the shock without cracking in the first place.
For anyone who wants to side mount their jacks, go for. It's your custom, not mine. I'm just offering a friendly word of caution.
I hope this never happens to you.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 11, 2009)
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Hal; according to the rules, if you ever place an Alembic in its stand with a cable still plugged in, whether the jack is side mounted or top mounted, you forfeit possession of the instrument and it must be returned to Santa Rosa immediately. Just thought I would let you know in case you were not already aware of this particular rule.
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Old School rules... Now, that's what I'm talking about Dave. ;)
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Yes!
To Hal and everyone: PLEASE don't ever leave your instrument in a stand while plugged in. That is, by far, the number one cause of broken pegheads (and broken hearts).
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I agree, i NEVER leave my cables plugged into instruments when not in use, even at home or rehearsals. Not worth the risk.
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And take the strap off too! Anything to make the instrument safer. I have a Hofner president semi acoustic that my brother has taken to New Zealand to have repaired after I dropped it on the side mounted jack - pushed the socket straight through the side of the instrument. I doubt if I'll ever see it agin but it's in good hands - I'm not much of a guitar player anyway;-)
graeme
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That's pushing it for me. I hate having a false sense of security with straps (on or off); that's why I don't remove my straps from my guitars or basses unless I am upgrading the straps (itself). I had some bad experiences with metal spring strap locking mechanisms. I'll never use them again. I use, cal-hide leather strap locks. With a simple screw, and by virtue of a metal hollow threaded connector; and held together by the torque of using a simple Philips screwdriver. I love them because they're strong, they can't scratch up your instruments, don't need oiling, no springs, washers or metal clips and they look natural and they never interrupt your spontaneity. Each time you remove your strap, you are adding wear and tear to any mechanism. It's just a matter of time before you bass would be on the floor. The metal locking system fasteners, are prone to go undetected before its too late. With leather, you can see and feel the integrity right there... I also use Hercules stands. Older stands, with the extended "bottom forks" are prone to come off or an even greater trip hazard. Leather Strap Locks below:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71403.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71404.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 12, 2009)
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***CHANGE CONTROL***
Hi Mica,
I am so happy to had been able to speak with you today
As stated over the phone, I desire picture #1 below.
Thank you for checking and validating no drilling had begun to make this sudden change... #2 is null and void.
Peace and blessings!
Hal-
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Hal, I think it's great that you're keeping your 76- I made the mistake of selling my 77 shortscale (schedua top & back) so I'm glad to see that you're not making the same mistake I made. I had that bass for 14 years, and it was my main instrument- I played with it live, recorded with it, wrote with it, and just played the heck out of it. Now I have 2 6 string Alembics (a custom Epic with Ebony neck lams and several other custom features, and what I believe to be a Europa with a custom body shape and headstock). I love both basses, but I really miss my Series. I hope to someday get my hands on a Series I or II 6, but for now, my quest continues. So far, all I've found are pictures!
Peace;)
Frank
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There's so much Slam left in this 76.
Looking back from a historic perspective, my Shorty was my guide, and prelude to the shape of things to come...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71465.jpg)
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sorry to be almost a month late on this topic, but i found this website and thought people would like to see the movable pickup on this bass
http://westone.info/railbass.html (http://westone.info/railbass.html)
enjoy
~Taylor Watterson
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Not bad...
I believe, Wolf and I had come full circle on adjustable pickups.
The basses from you link, looks really sleek and futuristic. Those bass looks to something from a Star Wars film. In fact, I had to convince myself those objects are bass guitars.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 16, 2009)
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Those are interesting Taylor . Very futuristic . I would have to agree with Hal that they that they might require a cognitive reminder that they are musical instruments.
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Taylor,
The rails are so large, it's the foundation which structurally supports not only the pickups, but the entire body... Then, if that's not enough, the maker prints: THE RAIL DAMMMM!
From a design perspective, the more you project the rails, the more you have to remove a classical esthetically well understood -- exotically created, wooden bass.
I think your example, is very-far to the right of the scale. Extremely radical. But it is still very relevant to this sub-discussion.
Thanks.
P.S.
This bass almost looks like a miniaturized old vintage style, sliding X-Ray machine.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 17, 2009)
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I made this computer charm for keepsake.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 17, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71585.gif)
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The Spirits are completely in harmony.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71589.gif)
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The essences of the Toma_Hawk completed. The Spirit transformation left a permanent fusion of Purple, Green, Blue, Red, and Orange to mark a convergent mix.
Smiling colors!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71592.gif)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 17, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71684.gif)
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Hal, that last image is very cool - think you may have to make an acrylic Tomahawk.
I'm guessing that Alembic have never built an acrylic series bass/guitar. Suddenly I want one.
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71698.jpg)Couldn't resist...
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Garth,
That's a interesting looking bass. Hey, man if this is your dream bass, go for it and don't let nothing stand in your way.
I can't wait to see your FTC.
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Hi Mica, this is for you and your team...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 20, 2009)
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This is so exciting!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 20, 2009)
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This is for TEAM ALEMBIC!!!!
YOU GUYS ARE ALL GOLDEN TO ME!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71729.jpg)
Hal-
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My bad...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 22, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71811.gif)
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[moderator's edit: I have no idea what the purpose of this post was, or how it relates to the present thread, but since several members found it to be outside the acceptable boundaries of this thread, the text has been removed. As an additional note, the moderator has suggested on several occasions in the past, and it has been noted in the posting guidelines, that religious content, because of its potential to provoke heated emotional responses, is best left outside of this discussion board. And finally, as this thread is the factory-to-customer thread for a particular build, and as one of the more important functions of the factory-to-customer thread is its use by Mica to communicate with the customer, the moderator feels that it is best if this function be respected by the members of this board. Oh, and as an addendum, the moderator highly encourages all members to be respectful of and patient with each other, as the moderator has noted that having a compassionate heart tends to make our oh so very brief stay on this beautiful planet all the more joyful.]
(Message edited by davehouck on October 22, 2009)
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Ah... Dave, can you have the above removed from the Tomahawk thread?
We have a stalker here. One creepy dude... Maybe he missed his morning medications... What a lonely guy!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 22, 2009)
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Mica, Dave... anybody?
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I'd like to say something nice, but... Is this suposed to mean something?
I'm not skilled in English and do not follow any religion. So, didn't I got the point or is this just you trying to keep an old arguing going on?
Because this Bass will take a long time to be done and we will have to live with this thread for months. I'm a pacifist and don't want to be exposed to that arguing any longer... Please, for Community health sake.
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The matter is simple:
If you're not interested in Hal's dream, fair, but NO ONE is interested in this altercation...
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Looks to me like this guy is trying to get himself banned. He may just succeed this time.
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Mario, it was strange...
This is what he does... I never communicated with this guy. One minute, I am minding my own business, and all of a sudden, this guy post the bible.
This is madness, I believe in my heart, something is wrong with Pierreyes. He needs some help and he get's away with these stunts all the time. I wish Dave would talk to the guy or something...
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It's my understanding Dave has conversed with him. Yet, he's still pulling this stuff. Like I said, it's almost as if he's trying to get himself banned.
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Alan,
The guy is probably laughing at us, because he's the only sane person with sense...
In his world, we are the fools.
How grateful he should be to be given this opportunity to slam a thread designated for the development of an Alembic basses. How wonderful for this guy to be allowed to use, and interpret religious epithets on an area of this site designed for customers and Alembicans to enjoy the stages of production.
It take people like this guy to have people think twice about having one of these threads created. Nobody should have to go through the abuse I had undergone just for a dream. It's plain sick.
On my next bass, I am going to request a private email update and just forward to those people I know could appreciate the healthy interactions.
Peace-
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 22, 2009)
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Hal, can I be on that list??? :-)
~Taylor Watterson
PS- didn't see what he said, but Dave has fixed it, don't let anything discourage you
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I'm with Taylor here!
Actually, I didn't read what he said, and I'm glad I didn't.
From his past comments, I presume he was being disrespectful to you and you bass, Hal.
But you know, let him drown in his own thoughts. You and I and everybody here knows that you are going to have an awesome bass, and no matter what people say, that will never change!!
Let the Toma_hawk rule!!!!
Greg
PS- Put me on that list too!
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Taylor, you are critical, and I would be a fool not to include you on the guess-list my friend.
Peace!
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quote:I presume he was being disrespectful to you and you bass
Greg, you presume really false, I have just wrote the entire point 18 of Ezekiel that Hal seem to appreciate, It's all. After that Dave did his job, no problem for me.
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Hal,
The Toma-Hawk is going to be awesome! Like I said before, and I know a lot of people on this thread seem to feel the same way (from their positive comments), your bass is something that you helped dream into being. Sure, Alembic is building it for you, but you conceived it. You've poured your own unique vision into something that is becoming physical reality, even as we speak, and that's awesome in ways most of us can't begin to describe.
We as musicians pluck notes from the ether, and with the help of our mystical Alembics, we then transmit those notes, chords, and melodies out into the audible world, where they might be enjoyed by all.
Hal, don't let any of those negative remarks bother you, pal- you're too bright a star to allow any of this garbage bring you down.
Peace To You, My Friend;)
Frank
(Message edited by otis on October 22, 2009)
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just remember, you came up with the Toma_Hawk, prooving Frank's point of you being a bright guy, and also rather creative
i'll be looking forword to your next FTC e-mails, are we looking at The Jester or Devon? ;-)
~Taylor Watterson
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Pierre,
If you want to send something to Hal that is of a religious nature (and that you think he'll appreciate) send it to him privately via email rather than post it here. It would be in line with the posting guidelines and would serve not to derail Hal's FTC thread.
Alan
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Pierre you wasn't disrespectfull at all, but seems you want to keep an old arguing alive when this is totaly unnecessary. That confusion should be over now and I may be wrong (as I said, I'm not fluent in English), but that looked like a teasing.
I would be by your side against the bushians wars at the other subject someone recalled later (if I were aware when it hapened, sorry), but you could let this thread calm down. No one should pre-judge you by an old thread and I understood everyone were cool now. Anyway, this thread has nothing to do with that. Let Hal enjoy his moment, you don't need to be part of it and you don't need to mess with that.
I'd like to be able to say something to solve things down. I don't even got why all this altercation started (you never seemed to me overly rude when everybody got angry with you back there), but would be smart to let things calm down from now on. Don't get this to a cracking point, in a game like that no one wins.
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Sorry Pierre, but it always looks like you are teasing or instigating something here. And I can't judge you, because it has nothing to do with me. But Hal is feeling offended, and that is not cool.
Let's just stop this mess, and simply watch the birth of the Toma_Hawk!!!
Hal, sorry I'm picking up on this, I just think it is unfair with you.
Come on Mica, give us a new picture please, so we can get back to what this thread is all about and forget about this!!
Greg
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I't was just to break the loneliness of Hal from the 17 october, he was alone for a few days to write here. Now, a lot of people write ! I don't understand some parts of your post Mario sorry... I copy/paste a part of bible, nothing bad, yess not appropriate in this thread but, like hal said, It's his thread => nothing else to say or write, he is the master.
I leave all in peace and quiet of course. I'm not angry with anybody, no game, nothing.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 23, 2009)
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yess not appropriate in this thread
Then why did you post it in the first place?
Again, take it to email.
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And another thing ...
How would Pierre feel if someone posted like he did in his FTC thread? Would he be open to it? Would he like it? I don't know for sure, but I suspect he wouldn't appreciate it much.
Breaking loneliness? Take it offline.
Alan
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Again my major, take it easy and stop your comment, I finished the October 22, 2009 at 9:54 am.
Let Hal's thread in peace and love us alleluia.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 23, 2009)
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Pierre,
I am not your Major. **&^ss.
You want to leave Hal's thread in peace? Stop stirring up &^it.
Alan
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&^=? chuuut my major... stop...coool... PEACE, I try to learn Spain.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 23, 2009)
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Try to learn Spain?
Spanish?
Again, I'm not your Major ... jackass.
Dave/Mica ... I apologize in advance.
Alan
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Spain, the Chick Corea tune you know ? Singing by Jarreau too...what mean jackass ? I don't understand my major. Why you don't stop to write me ? I'm just playing music... let me now in peace, if you know what mean this word. Now i'm working on what if I forget the champaign (Stanley Clarke).
Best regards Alan.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 22, 2009)
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(In this context, Spain is probably the Chick Corea tune.)
I'm not going to close this thread, since this thread is for Mica's use in communicating with Hal about his bass. That said, it might be a good idea going forward if all posts to this thread were kept to the subject of the thread, the instrument that Mica and Alembic are building.
In fact in might further be helpful if everyone just gave it a break for 24 hours or so. Little of positive value is gained in these exchanges.
So everyone - give it a rest.
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Yes is it Dave, a great tune very plaisant to play!
But if this thread, as I understand, is fpor communicate between Mica and Hal, why Mica is so absent ? I will do what break anyone want, with all respect I must have for you Dave, thank's.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 23, 2009)
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Jackass - means donkey in English.
I don't care for Chick Corea's music, though I appreciate his obvious talent.
I've written you, Pierre. And you know that I have. Let's take further discussions offline.
Akan
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you too my major, you don't know to stop yourself even Dave ask. I was playing School Days now.
I don't know the word donkey. Google translate = ?ne ... ok it's the same level as your private insults.
For your instruction, listen this example:
http://www.amazon.com/Spain-Michel-Camilo-Tomatito/dp/B00004TA43 (http://www.amazon.com/Spain-Michel-Camilo-Tomatito/dp/B00004TA43)
and LET the peace come in your mind brother.
(Message edited by pierreyves on October 23, 2009)
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Sorry, typo.
Alan
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Dave,
I will email you.
Pierre ...
Private insults . that you'd refer to them here speaks volumes about your character or lack thereof. Again, meet me offline should you care to debate further.
BTW, I'm not your brother, nor will I ever be.
Alan
P.S, Want to buy a Swiss Rifle? Never fired and only dropped once.
-
I have posted my thoughts about yesterday's exchange here (http://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=1287) in a post to the Alembic Basses & Guitars section. I highly encourage those of you who participated in yesterday's discussion to read that post before considering posting anything else to this thread. It is not appropriate to be negatively and insensitively critical in an FTC thread, and it is not appropriate to carry some past grievance into an FTC thread. I am hopeful that the respite afforded by the temporary closing of this thread has been helpful, that we've all had a chance to breath, and that we can return to the appreciation of the wonderful craftsmanship that we are so fortunate to be a part of.
-
Somewhere....Paul (palembic) is smiling now.
Thanks.
-
Mica, any fresh pictures today?
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Hi Greg, I didn't for get you buddy... You are on the list.
Anybody else want to be on the list (email update) of my next custom?
(If the Alembic approves my next design...)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 23, 2009)
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David, you are a good man. I am honored by your presents. You are a rare person Dave, my heart always goes out to you.
That's from the heart.
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Sorry, no pics. When your bass is in spray, there's really nothing to report until it's out of spray. I know the holes got drilled for the controls.
-
Frank, that was very gracious, and I am deeply touched and very honored. This is the total spirit I was hoping to find when joining the club.
My heart goes out to The Alembic Family, and my amount of respect for them are too great to call anyone out. People know when they are wrong on stuff, and they know when things are not cool; and surely they have the power to make a difference to get through the day. Yeah, I am going to fall on my ass just like everyone on this earth, but with you guys help, I know I got a helping hand to get up.
The power of awesome musical minds, in witness of very awesome musical things.
Over 2 years ago, it started right here in this area. Watching and learning what people wanted on their sandwiches. This is where it starts, this is where everything comes down to making sense.
I am watching and gaining energy from other's dreams with each picture that opens up.
I imagine the possibilities on what dreams may come, and their concerns from each exchange of requests.
Regardless who owns the bass initially, it will eventually exchange to new owners. So, from the stand point of me owning something just as a physical thing... NO WAY. The Toma_Hawk is more than physical, it holds the Spirit of Alembic and the people whole lives had benefited from its creation, and those who would soon enjoy the sounds it may bare and release.
The physical side of the wood, shape and sound will be passed on through generations through generations. However, what makes this bass special, is the story behind the object, good or bad -- from personal emails; this present FTC; past DFN; and music Blogs throughout the Internet The Story and the Spirit will lives on and on... Think about it. The Toma_Hawk is not just any bass, it's all of us, about us. I believe we should unify together and stand together on every bass that manages to get through the rigorous and prestigious halls of Alembic.
Only with God's permission, I will be the first steward of the Toma_Hawk, but frankly, you are also Stewards of your fascinating basses and dream rigs too. I pray, that each generation, continues to another generation with our best intentions, and best examples, for the future was ours, now it's becoming closer and closer theirs. Everything we said, and everything we did with regards of this bass, could and will be read.
I just hope we could leave something positive for them and future readers, in representing our beloved Alembic society. This is not about the Toma_Hawk, its showing our support for all Alembicans from all walks of life.
So if people want to check out the Toma_Hawk as it moves through the thread, do so with peace and with the honors we must hold for all Alembics and the people who breaks their sleep to work on behalf of our dreams, and dreamers. Let's honor the Wickersham's for there support in allowing our voices to be heard through their portals world wide, and support this serious cause.
Let's keep Love gainfully employed here.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on October 24, 2009)
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I'm looking forward to more updates. Let's get back on track here for what matters, the instruments.
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Yeah, enough drama. Let's see this cool bass..
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Dave knows how I feel about this whole episode, and I'll leave it at that. Anyone wishing to know my thoughts on the matter can email me privately. I won't be discussing things here publicly.
This being said, I and many others are looking forward to seeing Hal's bass coming to fruition. I'm sure it will be the instrument of a lifetime for him.
V/R,
Alan
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Man, you go away for a week and look what happens.
I'm just here for the pretty pictures.
Let's move on!
-
Imagine Hal now. If there is somebody eager to see pics... He must be him!
-
The power of awesome musical minds, in witness of very awesome musical things.
-
Tune in for the nest episode of As Alembic Turns
or maybe CSI: Alembic or the The Real Members of the Alembic Club
-
mario_farufyno
funkyjazzjunky
altgrendel
ajdover
hydrargyrum
crobbins
12stringwilson
pierreyves
garth4664
tmoney61092
gregduboc
otis
jedisan
serialnumber12
the_mule
s_wood
jazzyvee
sonicus
smokinbear
mikeyv
garethnh
tbrannon
adriaan
cje
hifiguy
crobbins
andbassforall
lbpesq
artswork99
elwoodblue
enzo
...In the scrapbook of the FTC Toma_Hawk memory lane 10/2009.
-
Thanks for including me; gestures like this are meaningful to me .
-
Mica, and Dave are obviously included, this goes without saying...
-
:-D, enough said, thanks
~Taylor Watterson
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Greg
-
Now you surprized me!
You're a great guy... [color=808080](not saying because I noticed my name)[/color].
(Message edited by Mario Farufyno on October 27, 2009)
(Message edited by Mario Farufyno on October 27, 2009)
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What does the list signify Hal?
Graeme
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Jack, it's just a list of people who had added comments to this FTC. Just part of the Toma_Hawk's FTC days, weeks, months, and years as time passes by... I could always remember everybody.
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You missed me off then ;-(
Boy do I feel unloved. sniff ;-(
Just kidding Hal ;-) With the interest this build has generated It's no surprise you've missed one or two of us.
Graeme.
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D'oh!, this FTC has gotten so large, I knew I would make mistakes in accounting everybody.
Thank you for stepping up and correcting me.
Jack, I knew the list didn't look right without you included.
Please, if there's anyone I missed, let me know. Reading these threads, are very inspiring for me, and I am sure, for the next luck person who wants a FTC.
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The Black Toma_Hawk in 3D... Oh my!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72131.jpg)
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(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 02, 2009)
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3D Computer art...Catching the Toma_Hawk controls...
I'd figure I'll try to provide some levels of entertainment, while waiting for the real thing.
Be careful, this is very hypnotic, so don't watch this too long
BTW, the Toma_Hawk is still in the spray booth getting pretty.
Everything will be alright people!
This image jumps almost through the view...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 02, 2009)
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^ Never an Alembic took so little time to be assembled...
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I cannot wait to see you holding your new baby
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No worries here...
This bass will have a 'end point' like everything else in life.
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72310.gif)
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No picture of the Toma_Hawk?
Life goes on...
It's Time for my famous Chocolate Chip cookies.
If your guys are interested in my wonderful recipe, you can have fun, and search for them under my old call sign Hendixclarke and find them...
I only shared this recipe here, and no place else...
I got to run, and get some butter.
Have a great weekend!
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In preset with the controls drilled:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72390.jpg)
That means it's still in spray, but it's more than halfway through the painting process.
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OH YEAH!!!!!
Greg
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With a fresh and beautiful thought, ((1) thought) could lead to a fresh and beautiful idea, ((1) idea) which then could lead to a beautiful concept ((1) concept) and (3) years later, you just might see something beautiful like this...
With each step, moves us closer toward understanding GOD's sound through this vessel, called: The Toma_Hawk
Great work!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 07, 2009)
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I made my cookies. May your heart stay warm as we enter Winter-time...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 07, 2009)
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As discussed with Mica, both pickups of The Toma_Hawk will be black, with the etched Alembic name.
I love the look of Alembic basses with them... It give a solid rock hard look.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72466.jpg)
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This might come at good news for some, but this is my last rendition of computer archeology (assembling the missing link) of the Toma_Hawk bass.
I think the direction of this project is headed towards the project finish-line with the checkered flags waving proudly!
This has been very fun. I hope to see more wonderful and different shapes in the future from others, like you.
Thank you and happy Holidays!!!!
Note: The Toma_Hawk on the right, has simulated and computer drawn parts from the actual picture to the left.
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That High Definition cookie looks very musical !
-
I used a Panasonic DMC-LX3 on the cookie.
Surly the most advanced camera I'd ever owned so far... and it leaves nothing to the imagination.
That's the philosophy of a great a great camera!
As with all Alembics, they love the camera... Alembics were made for cameras.
Oh, I can't wait to use my camera on the Toma_Hawk. Taking photos of the Toma_Hawk will be such a joy for me to look forward to, because there are shots of this bass I had yet seen.
I want to see the back; a full body profile; a full body frontal; a full body Side; closeups on the Crown; a perspective with a person holding it; a caption with other Alembics next to it; nice back-drops to see it's colors and grains; live motion videos with embedded sound...
I might spend a whole weekend taking pictures with this great camera and the Great Toma_Hawk bass.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 08, 2009)
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HAL ______ you are with out question a visual ARTIST of the highest tier !
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Wolf, you are a wonderful blessing.
Man, your ideas are made for this site. I look hugely forward reading your remarks, because I always learn something from you. Right on!
I am looking to concentrate on an acceptable design for the Jester Fret-less Series II bass. I may consider a sliding pickup... This makes complete sense to me.
If you can slide your fingers on a fretless, why not slide the pickups too?
I would love to see an Alembic project of this nature. Wow, this would be something I had never seen before. This project screams to come true.
Yeah, you have a beautiful mind my friend.
As for the Toma_Hawk... this bass is designed to take an ass woopin with socket-in-the-pocket pickups only!
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 08, 2009)
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Thanks Hal. I look forward to the completion of Toma_hawk as well. It looks like that will be quite soon . The Jester might well turn out to be another awesome innovative tour de force as well. What sublime fun it will be to see it come to life .
(Message edited by sonicus on November 08, 2009)
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327 + 1 entries on this thread!
This must tops the record for the number of posts for a FTC.
The Toma_Hawk Experience journal and memoirs...
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altgrendel predicted the same thing on the first page.
It ain't over yet : )
I predict you'll be smiling all the way to Santa Rosa when the day comes to pick up your new custom.
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Haa haa!!!
Elwood, your statement had me cracking up!!!
Man, I almost fell out of my chair dude.
You know why... it's true, and you know it's true!!!
Altgrendel was also right. I couldn't believe it because I seen David's 12 string hit 225 over a 3 year build period.
My new song: I found my Toma_Hawk, in Santa Rosa.
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Hal, now everytime i come into this thread, i instantly get hungry because of the cookie you posted :-D, looks delicious, as well as the Toma_Hawk, congrats
~Taylor Watterson
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This is the good part, don't miss it!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72708.gif)
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Hal I gotta be honest.When I first saw the Tomahawk outline I really wasn't sure!.But thanks to the work of the Santa Rosa alchemists and your boundless enthusiasm and creativity this is one that's really grown on me and I continue to follow it's progress,even though,like tmoney61092,that picture of the cookie makes me hungry!!.
Best wishes,
Simon.
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Simon, that's usually how everything goes with new things.
Most people generally don't like something different until 'that something', becomes something special.
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Well, its Friday (Thank GOD...).
Mica, is it possible to have more of your wonderful pictures of the Toma_Hawk from many areas?
Front, back, side, peg-head, neck full views and with you and or someone in the building?
Please, Mica Please give me a shot of that Alembic juice... I am have a withdraw of wanting to see more...
Hee hee...
Otherwise I'll have to take my frustrations out on beating the heck out my Alembic Shorty... However, Shorty love this treatment...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 13, 2009)
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This is getting good...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72751.gif)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72752.gif)
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Time for me to bounce up out of here... Have a good weekend everybody.
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wait, are you going Alembic to pick her up right now?
~Taylor Watterson
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No, Frankly, I had to go get something on the BBQ grill. My family wanted Chicken burgers last night.
I just hope this bass is ready before the end of 2009 tax year, and preferentially before it becomes an immortal bunt of my wife's jokes that I would have to hear every time I strap the Toma_Hawk on... Who want's to hear this throughout a life time of marriage anyway?
Also, I am planning to have a fret-less Series II bass arsenal addition to my bag of tricks.
Unfortunately, there will not be a FTC for the Jester bass during construction. I don't want to re-live all the excitement of the Toma_Hawk.
So, the option of receiving updates by private emails, is more appropriate to circumspect the potential drama.
As for the Toma_Hawk bass, if I have to wait until after the New Year, I am going to inherit the curses of my wife...
But having the Toma_Hawk before the new year, will bring the Celestial Angeles to sing and forever keep (protect) me from my wife's painful wise cracks
Mica, will the Toma_Hawk be ready before Christmas, or more importantly, before the year end?
It's just a bass, and life goes on either case and there are more important things like family, good health, and being thankful for the things we have.
GOD had truly blessed me with many great things and I wish Alembic continued success always.
May peace be on all, as this FTC heads toward it's end.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 14, 2009)
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Hal,
My only request (for both basses) is that you post pictures of the completed projects.
Umm, in the appropriate forum.
Thanks!
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This is a Special Report...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 15, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72830.jpg)
The Alembic Tomahawk bass will be a Custom Featured bass.
Susan Wickersham -
Now back our your regular programming...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 15, 2009)
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Wow,
congrats, that'll be fun!
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Elwood,
There you go, you sly devil you...
What you're saying is:
Susan and Mica will have their work cut out for themselves, once they start writing about this lolly-pop
But in the end, the Alembic Featured Custom page, on the Toma_Hawk, will be a very special read as all those beautiful jaw doping, mouth drooling things we love.
Thanks Elwood.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 15, 2009)
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I finally got the design of this bass -- ie, it's intended to free up forearm space. I'd like to try it. I was thinking about this while playing my short scale custom -- I'd never thought about it, but I'm definitely resting my forearm on the body, in fact kind of pressing down. I'm not sure what it would feel like w/ no wood there to press down on...
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Hugh, The Toma_Hawk concept was simple for me.
Some basses just looks cool strapped on, but frankly, I want form and function with good looks.
For me, the Toma_Hawk is exactly what I was looking for in a well designed bass which serves my purpose(s). I don't know of anything else comes closer for me, than the Toma_Hawk.
Playing bass with the standard fingering position mode, my arms rest on the top Wing of the Toma_Hawk. Resting my arms on the wing is no different than resting my arms on my Shorty, when playing.
However, when I convert my arm to the positions supporting popping, thumping, slapping, and strumming aka The attack mode -- my arms are not resting. In fact, my arms are no-longer resting on top of the Toma_Hawk's wing. My legs and muscles changes it position, and even my back is no-longer straight. The attack mode requires a major change of my entire body.
At this point, the magic is Toma_Hawk's curvature towards the pointed end. For, as my arm moves away from the wing, my arms glides to the attack mode with little or no resistance with extreme impact and stance for the attack mode of playing.
Yeah, that's The Toma_Hawk in the nutshell.
Only one in the world, just like me.
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I'm like Simon in when I first saw your computer renderings(especially without necks) the body shape looked like some kind of parasite...now that it's in wood, it looks real nice, and I know you're gonna be happy and we all here are happy for you as well...the world is a better place with artisans around, and thankfully there are artisans to help artisans like yourself here...Group hug everyone! tony
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Thanks for the kind words Tony. That was great man.
Right on!
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The Toma_Hawk Cyclopes. What cool looking monster.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72945.jpg)
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Hey Hal,
How about a Fretless Cyclops Toma_Hawk to compliment your custom?
-
I knew that was coming. I knew that question was coming. I have a quick answer to this question...
No.
The Toma_Hawk shape is of a different bread, a different horse all together. A fret-less Toma_hawk would contradict the shape. I can't see wanting this shape for just a fingering bass... (cause... that's all you get, with a fret-less bass anyway.)
Now, let me tell you what the Cyclops is all about...
The Cyclops is a short order, no-nonsense...
Like when I say to somebody: Wait right there, I'll be back -- let me get my stick.
The Cyclops are without the complexities of my Series I Toma_Hawk. The controls on the Toma_Hawk Cyclops, are in many ways, considered a just enough on a bass, and with a suitable rig, like with my new Mesa Boogie rig, would be more than sufficient.
Therefore, if I was to strap on the Toma_Hawk Cyclops, I am in the moment of the music... and Let me just plug in... with the comfort of the Toma_Hawk shape when freestyle Funk or fingering traditionally.
Best of all, the cost to make the Toma_Hawk Cyclops would be considerably less, than a Series bass. It's the shape I want, and need anyway.
Two very powerful human desires.
Never never never a fret-less Toma_Hawk. I'll put a curse on it.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 19, 2009)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72953.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/72954.jpg)
A Brown Cyclops is beautiful too.
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Well excuuuuuuseeee me! The tailpiece makes it look like Cyclops is frowning. Maybe the old moustache style would make him look more elegant.
Brown does look good btw.
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LOL!!!
Yeah, I see what you mean. I also agree with you on the Brown.
My Rig is:
F-1X
F-2B
DS-5R
Mesa Boogie Basis M-2000
(Foot Switches)
More knobs and switches than anybody needs...
compared to simply Two knobs on the Cyclops
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Well, it's Friday...
The Great Bill Cosby said in a interview many years ago...
Before dreams happen, you must first WAKE UP!
I think anyone who's out there who have a dream bass/guitar (or with anything...)should start with a dream, (wake up) then write it down. Don't let it get away. Hold on to the concept for dear-life and challenge your beliefs.
After that -- Take it to the streets and get support from others and add their suggestions (improving it...) Let one, or two years wear on your ideas. If the feelings are still strong or stronger, then you must (for the good of humanity, and your sanity)take it to the next level.
Most importantly, have faith in ideas as to stand before GOD as your witness, then launch a real project and make it happen the best you can.
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Hey!!!
Everybody enjoy in the USA (or if your outside), enjoy Thanksgiving. I will be taking the week with much desired relaxations -- out starting today at 2pm USA San Fransisco Time!
Peace and Love!!!
-
thanks Hal, you too!!!!
~Taylor Watterson
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I am grinning from ear to ear over this thread.
So close, yet so far from completion!
-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73269.jpg)
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A small change, can make a huge difference.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73281.jpg)
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Altgrendel,
Great works mandates the attribute of patience.
Great patiences, attributes a measure of Love.
Waiting for things to materialize, are the divine attribute of believing in Patience and Love.
All things of sacrifice, yield a greater reward.
Hal-
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The Conquest...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73325.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 30, 2009)
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Hahaha, now this one is AWESOME!!!!
I can even see it on the Louvre, hidden in a secret chamber...
Greg
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Hi Greg,
This famous painting, is one of my favorites.
The Toma_Hawk looks so real in this art. It was a fun addition. I am such a fool Jester for this kind of stuff.
Time marches on...
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Good Friends...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73353.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 30, 2009)
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The Winner...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73357.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 30, 2009)
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Hal,
You do realize that you're completely nuts, right?!
But don't worry, we won't alert the authorities...Tony.
-
The Band of Space Gypsies...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73370.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 30, 2009)
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This is just an expression of art. Music is universal, and it touches the heart in colors and art in many ways we identify.
Music can take you to so many worlds of imagination.
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on November 30, 2009)
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I been called worse, and there are people here who would agree. I am not the kind of guy holds in a good laugh, or a good fart. It's good to relieve the pressure.
-
Hal, the pirates picture looks so authentic!
I hope you can play as good as you can work with Photoshop!
Awesome work!
Greg
-
-
Greg,
I believe beautiful art on canvas is for the people who can't hear.
I believe beautiful music in the air, is for people who are visually blind.
Artist must be aware of both conditions, and inspire our hearts.
-
One of Beauty...(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73398.jpg)
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Going Acoustic?
Greg
-
It's December now. Where in the heck did November go?
Wow, time is truly an illusion. It was just yesterday, my 4 year old gave me her works of art from school. You know... the Paper Fruit Bowl, Paper Turkey, and The Native American Paper headband with the one paper feather...
I believe Thanksgiving is the Greatest American Holiday of all time.
-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73419.jpg)Time for something different...
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73422.jpg)
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Present for you Hal, Cheers, Garth
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That's Soooooooo Cooool Garth!
-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73426.jpg)
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Jimmy's wish that came true!!!!
Happy Holiday's and may all your dream come true.
PEACE ON EARTH...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73434.jpg)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73437.jpg) Cheers Hal, This looks a little more natural - Mona demonstrates double-stops.
-
That's very good.
Besides playing my guitars, drawing, and looking at art, is the best stress reliever for me. Another one of my hobbies includes making computer automated objects.
I am presently using very high-end CGI program called Blender for 2-D and 3-D Animation. Fun
stuff.
Practice make perfect.
-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73443.jpg)
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I made some edits...
I gave the bass a more oily look. I was thinking of a delicious red apple.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73457.jpg)
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I wish I had such computer skills... Man, I would be able to visualize every bass I dream of....
You guys are gooooood!
Greg
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Greg,
I had a good long talk with Mica yesterday. According to our discussion, the Toma_Hawk is sprayed, dried, buffed, and repeated daily, and the activities mentioned are continuous on for about one more week. After a very extreme inspection, if the bass is pristine, it gets it's metals...
Mica said everything is looking good, it now just a matter of weeks not months. Knock on wood!
So, I understand you guys are planning an Alembic get-together in Brazil... If this is true, count me in! If GOD is my witness, me and the Toma_Hawk will be joining in on the festivities!
Prior to these kind of travels, once the Toma_Hawk is here with me, it's going to get crazy here in the West-Coast, for this bad boy will be cranked full blast with tons of studio recording work ahead.
-
Tony...
Yes, I am completely nuts. Look at all the pages of this FTC. You're just now discovering this... Where on earth had you been my friend???
Just wait until this bass is in my hands, there will be a dedicated website built for tracking recordings, travels, and people supporting this fascinating design and sound of the Toma_Hawk.
When you like something insanely, or nuts about it... that an attribute of LOVE!
Some people may have to almost lose their lives, before they'd finally wake-up to appreciate just how wonderful it is, to simply drink water from a old beaten-up tin cup.
...the best dam water in the world!
Tell the world, what is beautiful, for it is a sin to keep from others which you know is good.
Think on this...
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 02, 2009)
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Nice work Hal. Really look forward to seeing the featured custom page.
-
This goes out to OAKLAND CALIFORNIA - THE OAKLAND RAIDERS!!!
Wow, that Darth Vader is one evil dude... I think I like Pinocchio's art and colors better...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73466.jpg)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 02, 2009)
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Hal,
I'm so excited... I guess the Toma_Hawk would look wonderful under a Christmas Tree... Actually, under yours...!
And don't worry about the Gathering. I'll let you know when we decide something.
But now, all focus on the Toma_Hawk!!!!
Here it comes!!!!
Greg
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Garth,
The Alembic Featured Custom spot is the cat's meow, or the lions roar depending on your perspective on this bass.
I can't help but laugh because I bet there are some people out there, who can't wait for this FTC to close. I understand this too.
My Father always said:
Friends you loose, but enemies you keep...
Maybe someday, I'll understand what he means.
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Hey Greg, I'll probably hooking on Frank's side of the map in Ohio then DC before heading up your way. This Summer should be insane for music and hopefully I can crash some Alembic gathering parties. What a wonderful family of Alembicans we have here!
After this bass is in my hands, I may have to decompress, and go underground for a few months or years in exile to study this bass
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 02, 2009)
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I was able to hold my breath and get you the back view you requested:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/73500.jpg)
The color is slightly intensified by the flash. I don't usually use a flash, but it's usually needed in the drying room.
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A rare GEM!
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First...
Mica, please don't put yourself in danger of the fumes. NOTHING IS WORTH YOUR HEALTH!
I am going to tell your mother if you do that again
Second...
Mica, the work is magnificent. This bass looks like a huge smile with rosy cheeks (on a face)!
Reality is really setting in, and I am feeling a connection to this bass like nothing I every owned before. Speaking to you was very encouraging and I hope things go well enough to get a call from you before Christmas to pickup this beast that's been sucking my soul; attacking my patience's; toying with my psyche; and placing my future on hold. Soon, I will have my life back from this toil of being so close, but yet still so far. But to be honest, this is fun as heck!
I completely get it when Willy Wonka said:
This suspense is killing me, I hope it lasts.
Alembic.com is already addicting, but nobody told me ordering a bass, intensifies the addiction 10-folds.
Anyway, sorry for the joke of selling my Toma_Hawk. It was a pure hoax. The Toma_Hawk will never be sold, it can only be given away freely to a child. (That's in my Will...)
Mica, I will wait for your call in advance to pay my bill free and clear. So, until that time, this is my last post on this FTC. I look forward to the next pictures when this bass is fully assembled and ready for loading in my Chuck Wagon Express.
May God bless everybody wherever you are.
Peace and Love is the greatest gift of all.
Thank you Mica, and many thanks to the Alembic Team, who has done an outstanding job in making a dream turn real!
P.S. Wolf,
You are one very sharp guy. Man, it's a honor to read your approach on very difficult topics. You, my friend have a beautiful mind with ideas, ways I had never conceived. This FTC with your comments will be read for many enjoyable years ahead. Thank you, and Greg for making this FTC fun.
Now, the hour has come for me to sing a standard...
A one-ana-two...
Fly me to the moon
Let me play among the stars
Let me see what spring is like
On a-Jupiter and Mars...
Ok, that's enough...
Kirk out,
Hal-
Star Date: (posted below...)
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on December 03, 2009)
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last post?
there is a god afterall...........
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Here's the "whole thing" shots that you requested earlier this week:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/74162.jpg)
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/74163.jpg)
It's still not quite ready to rub out, but it's getting close!
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Absolutely magnificent !
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Thanks Hal ! With out you there could not have been an Alembic Bass like the TOMA HAWK ! And with out Alembic Hal would not have the TOMA HAWK! The wheel keeps turning _____________!
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Earthquake coming!!!
Greg
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Very cool. No offense, but your renderings can't compare to the reality. I would be curious to hear what the skeptics of your original design would have to say now.
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This bass exalts Alembic and their excellence on all aspects of building quality basses and guitars.
Memories of me shall surly fade in a days ahead as with other projects I'd become emotionally, spiritually, and financially involved. That's just how projects works out, and I am at complete loving peace with this normal outcome.
The only action I take value; is personally working with such wonderful individuals: Susan, Mica, and Ron. The Alembic organization are absolutely phenomenal, and there couldn't be a Toma_Hawk period, without their consulting and engineering.
Soon, it will all comes down to letting this bass have a say, on the matter...
Peace and Love!
(Message edited by the_jester on December 17, 2009)
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Hal,
So simple, elegant and unique.
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Kevin, you are right. I don't think I would ever see a render from anyone, looking better than the real thing.
In fact, I think it's IMPOSSIBLE to rendered an Alembic drawing, to look better than the real thing.
Thanks for the complements.
Peace and Love
(Message edited by the_jester on December 17, 2009)
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FunkyJazzyJunky,
Thank you man. Much love to you... right on!
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Hal, I tend to agree with Kevin. When I saw your first renderings, I was not quite sure about the shape. Thing is, I do respect that you did step out of the typical Alembic box so to speak. But seeing the latest full images of the Toma_Hawk, it only confirms how design ideas can just come to life when seeing solid form. Have fun, good job!
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Tim,
I am happy this bass had restored a degree of faith. Both you and Kevin made this FTC more valuable, and you are in good company.
BTW, Thomas Lieber also sent his personal and warm remarks to the Toma_Hawk build.
Peace and Love -
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It didn't occur to me how much was carved out for the controls and such until I saw the photos. It's going to be very light. It's basically a semi-hollow bass.
Not quite like a Series 1, but still...
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It's a lean mean funk machine! Hal, the Toma_Hawk looks brilliant.
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It's great to see how this Bass has been growing up uppon our eyes. I can say that it shocked me at first sight, too. But each time I see it, it keeps grabbing me on more and more. First I thought it could ends odd, but now I see all its beautyness. Its look imposes itself more emphaticly than any text you've posted here, Hal (although following your enthusiasm has been really motivating, you know).
Hal, this Bass carries the strengh of your soul. All the best!
(Message edited by mario farufyno on December 19, 2009)
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Thanks Garth, I love your custom too! (I actually wanted it enough, to own.)
Here's my scale of wanting something...
If I look at something more than 3 or more times, means: it's beautiful and I want it someday;
If I glance at something 2-3 times, means: I like it and could/would consider owning it someday;
If I glance 1-2 times, means: it looks cool, but and I could accept it easily, as a gift, but I could never buy it for myself.
If I glance 1 time, means: I would never want it even as a gift.
Peace and Love!
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Hal, I forgot... What is the inlay pattern that the Toma_hawk is going to have?
Greg
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Greg, no inlays for the Toma_Hawk; nor will there be the traditional mother of pearl oval inlays.
This bass will emphasize the beauty of Ebony wood.
Also, no monograms, initials, or personal messages will be created. The shape alone, is my personal signature.
Peace and Love -
(Message edited by the_jester on December 20, 2009)
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Altgrendel,
Here's my 1976 Short Body Series I compared to my Toma_Hawk bass.
Space for both basses are around the same size.
Both backs are beautiful, and very well appointed for the controls. Hopefully, the Toma_Hawk is lighter, I am getting old dude
I can look on the back of a bass, and know it's an Alembic...
Peace and Love -
(Message edited by the_jester on December 20, 2009)
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Nice palette
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My two Alembic chopping boards.
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/74492.jpg)
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Happy NEW YEAR!!!
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/74620.jpg)
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Hey Hal,
I had hope that you would realize your Dream on Christmas Day...
In any event, I know that you will be fulfilled by Alembic in the days to come.
Merry X-mas, from the Brotherhood of the Bass.
m
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Musashi,
Thank you... (for your kind words).
Happy New Year's to you.
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Everything's loaded:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75372.jpg)
Eduardo's is the next Series on dad's bench, then it's your bass' turn. Will keep you posted as to when he's finished and the bass is ready.
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Hal,
I'm literally speechless. This is a stingray, a space ship, a royal scepter, a dream catcher, an alien artifact. I love the configuration of the knobs in relation to the body shape! A tribute to both you and the expertise and artistry of Alembic.
You better get clearance from the FAA, cuz' when you take delivery of this baby you're gonna be on cloud nine!!!
-Sam
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GOD is good!
Mica, the picture says it all... you guys clearly out done yourselves on this one. I know, if this bass looks this good on camera, it must look fascinating with exquisite beauty in person.
I must admit, I was doing fine until I seen this picture. You know you just made it extra hard for me to fall asleep tonight...
But, I'm happy you post the picture anyway. Thank you Mica!
As I said many times, there was never a single question or doubt in my mind on the beauty and utility of this bass. The Toma_Hawk is a clear example of everything I imagined a bass to be, and more.
The whole presentation of the different woods, and colors are all there, and in clear view -- with nothing covered. The quality is in clear view, the quality of the work, is very close to the levels of divinity.
Sam, thank you for your kind words. This is an amazing bass indeed, and a true work of art.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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I don't have to say anything, right Hal?
Cause I'm speechless now...
Greg
(Message edited by gregduboc on January 14, 2010)
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The creation of this instrument brings forth imagery of the ALEMBIC logo in my mind with the hand giving Hal this Bass from the sky. DREAM MATERIAL ! CREATIVE MAGIC!_______ ART!
Congratulations___________________________________
Wolf .
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All we need now are... sound samples from Hal!!
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Those controls are really close together.
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Very cool. Nice to see it completed.
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Here's what people had said my bass looks like...
1. A woman's swim suit
2. The Highway Sign of Route 66
3. A Police badge
4. The outline of the Tasmanian Devil cartoon
5. An Alembic Small Body Smiling
6. A Pit Bull's jaws and ears
7. A Whale Harpoon
8. A baby Gellyfish
9. A baby Octopus
10. Stitch's Space ship (From Lilo and Stitch cartoon)
11. A woman with a nice sweater reclined, and looking at the heavenly moon and stars...
12. A table lamp from the Victorian era
13. A Diamond
14. A Heart
15. A Car with racing stripes
16. Squidworth's head (Sponge Bob's friend)
17. A stingray
18. An Alien's head
19. An Alien Artifact
To me, I just think it looks Beautiful.
P.S.
As a design rule: Any curvy shapes which takes on the characteristics of a beautiful women, a sleek sports car, or an Alien Space Ship can't be bad...
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 16, 2010)
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Greg, as always and since day one, I love your bass too Playah.
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Wolf, sometimes, it's hard to express with words to describe my feelings of the joys of this creation. Sometimes words are not enough...
So, I thank Alembic for allowing customers (like myself) the freedoms to express the joys of having their once-in-a-life-time, expressions of happiness.
The using of 2-D, 3-D, and low-level animation to me, was a harmless act, and if I had offend anyone, please except my humble apologies.
I just want to assure those who were offended, it was out of expressing my overwhelming expressions of sheer joy of the moment, and on high levels of sheer ecstasy combined with discovery, and joyful anticipations.
So, as a caveat to those who taken offense of the art displayed, I didn't find anything graphically offensive.
Alembic has shown great tolerance, and arguably I had read other FTC's were both language and antics I felt was despicable, and of poor taste, and very racy for me, yet I had not called anyone, or uddered an itch of complaints to Alembic authorities.
PS (Just for the record...).
Just for the record, I never used PhotoShop in my life. I use a rendering tool called: Blender for 3-D, and I use a program called: Photo Impact (no longer available...).
J-FYI...
I was not the author of Toma_Hawk-Monalisa art, I loved it so much... I enhanced it
Peace and Love,
Hal -
(Message edited by the_jester on January 15, 2010)
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Mica, I LOVE the Black 5 pin XLR connector plate.
I was thinking chrome XLR connector plate at first, but I prefer the black back plate instead...
So, please (with sugar on top) DON'T remove the black back XLR connector plate.
Everything looks perfect!
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 15, 2010)
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Hal,
I have always enjoyed your creative visual offerings .
It is obvious that you possess BOTH the creative vision and the talent to express your self in such a way. Creative expression is where it's at .( art & music context)
Wolf.
(Message edited by sonicus on January 15, 2010)
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Some people get bent out of shape over the most harmless things. Alembic already has its own moderators, and since they seemingly had no problems with any of your graphical offerings, it would seem to me to be in bad taste for guests of their forum to complain about it. I never took these creations as anything more than an expression of your excitement and anticipation. Just my humble opinion.
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75551.jpg)
My New Desktop Background Art...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75552.jpg)
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Designed by Hal
Built by Alembic
Painted by Van Gogh
I like that Hal, what ever you did makes it look like brush strokes from the hand and technique of Vincent Van Gogh.
( at least to my eyes )
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Hey Wolf,
Photographer by the Legendary Mica.
What's interesting to note: This is the first photograph taken of the Toma_Hawk, fully assembled.
Enlarging the photo to poster size, would be a very grainy picture to frame therefore, I converted the original caption to a water color art format -- which actually looks like an authentic hand painting. I love the gray background patterns behind the bass -- it adds texture and contrasts the bass very nicely. Frankly, the gray mat, looks Alien like.
I already have the 30 X 25 glass frame, which the picture will be very fitting for my music room.
I also love the guitar photos, on the burgundy couch at Alembic HQ.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 19, 2010)
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Hal , that will be great.
Art, Photography , Music & Verse go so well together.
It's a double whammy when your music is performed on a work of Art !
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Wolf,
Once I take possession, I would be able to render full 3-D graphical images of this bass, and integrate (hopefully interesting) sound and motion along with my original recordings.
Creativity is endless.
I am presently working a custom low-maintenance website to house my body of work. So, after I take delivery, I will not be posting anything other than links to things I'd done, or working toward completing. It's something I can see doing for the next 40 years
Oh yeah, Alembic will always have my support, and gratitude.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 19, 2010)
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Been sifting through some pictures, and I found this one of the electronics before they were mounted on the bass:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75642.jpg)
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Hi Mica, do you have any shots of the entire bass with the sum of all it's parts?
A nice picture it would be, if you could have someone stand next to the bass (or yourself) for a memory photo shot.
Peace and Love, (Meaning...)
When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.
-Jimi Hendrix
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 20, 2010)
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Hello Hal,
Congrats on this coming together. Brilliant and IMHO it really came out exactly as you described it.
I'm happy to take the blame on the Mona_Lisa_Hawk and I?m glad that you liked it. For anyone else who was offended by it please feel free to send me your bill for the tissues used to wipe away your tears.
On a serious note, I'm also eagerly awaiting sound samples and a full post-playing review. The bass has a really solid - going to last forever - kind of look about it.
Much to be said of people who have a clear vision and set about achieving it.
Kudos to you mate - well done.
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Hal:
A thought for you: after the conclusion of one of my custom orders I asked Mica to have Ron, Susan herself and others who worked on the bass to sign the inside of the control cover with a Sharpie. That way, the beauty of the instrument wasn't defaced but I had a personal reminder and connection to the people at Alembic who are, of course, the source of the love and commitment to excellence that is the source of all of their goodness. Just sayin'
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Hi Garth,
Thank you for taking your share of the heat .
Although honestly, I'd wished I had been the first to combine both works of art as you did -- but you beat me to it my friend...
What's also interesting, both names (Mona_Lisa and Toma_Hawk) uses (2) words and (8) letters for each object. There's a connection even here... (Who would had guessed this?) Wow, it looks like the spirits are in agreement too.
Frankly, this bass is built with the same mind-set of a Formula 1 Indy car, with least resistance to friction. (In this case, the friction, is my forearm and wrist movements).
The sound of the Toma_Hawk will be what I expect any Alembic bass to project however, with slight variations (as to every Alembic differ in tone). So, since I presently own an Alembic in my lab, my analysis could helpfully make for a fun and easy bed-time read.
I'll create a thread called: Post Toma_Hawk review.
Steve, your story was a wonderful read (Thank you for sharing...). All Alembics are the best basses in the world, and while some people just own them, and others (including myself) like to answer with answers to: why -- Alembics are the best in the world....
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 21, 2010)
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I'll echo the call for sound samples, particularly something that highlights the ability to change playing form from slap to plucking that you designed it for. Best wishes.
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Garth, in the beginning, before the bass was created, both Mica and myself discussed the thickness of this theoretical Toma_Hawk bass. She was making a point pointing towards thinner basses and older basses (like my shorty) are thicker than the newer basses. Technology had vastly improved, and boy, the things they can do now... However, I wanted a thick bass. I didn't want the vastly improved thin bass. I wanted a bass as thick as my 76 shorty body -- which is about 1.73 inches in thickness. I just love the solid feel.
Also, there was someone who said the short horns on a shorties are no good for establishing balance, and shorties necks are prone to be neck heavy.
I owned a classic S1, and yes there are differences, but none of the differences had nothing to do with neck balance; large horns, or small horn. It's a complete myth because shorties are very well balanced and necks are shorter to counter the weight distribution, and in some cases the bodies weigh just as much or the same as omega like S1's.
Technically speaking, short horns are built with a greater emphasis on being built balanced than long horn basses. This makes sense, when short horn strap pin's are not placed on the top horn, but placed on the back of the neck (somewhere around the 21st fret area...).
However, with long horn basses, the emphasis on balance is less of an issue, because the pin's are attached to the ends of the longer horn. Surly from this perspective, you could support a longer scale neck, because it would be like taking a short horn bass, and moving the pin from the 21st fret to the 17th or 16th.
So, having a long horn bass, and attaching the pin to the longer horn beats attaching it within the same area of the neck, and longer horn basses were built to somewhat eliminate the question of balance all-together.
But for me, I love smaller horns because the balance question, can't be ignored and Alembic engineers had already solved this question a long time ago. So, with Shorties, all issues are mindful, and considered.
Peace and love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 22, 2010)
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Finally, the completed project is revealed!
Congratulations are in order!
Very organic looking, I like it. Can't wait to hear how you like it. I'm curious about how the balance turned out.
Please don't forget to post sound clips somewhere.
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Ok, time for me to reveal the secret of this bass...
Remember when I said this bass is more than meets the eyes... well here's the answer...
Look at the controls...
Mica picture is perfect to explain this important point.
Notice the controls in an arrow shape...
The shape will point up at approximately 90 degrees upon moving the neck slightly upward, thus adding uniformity for my hand to make adjustments, and the an arrow shape pointing upward, is esthetically pleasing.
Now you understand the whole secret to the controls.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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Just a true enlargement of Mica's picture... which I am hypnotized on...
I want to believe, this is my last post... on this FTC, but you know how that goes...
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75727.jpg)
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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I'm quite confident that there's SOME sort of 12-Step Program out there that could lend you some relief-giving assistance in conquering this most persistent affliction that has you in it's merciless grip. Meanwhile, be strong & turn it all over to a Higher Power. You have all our prayers & best wishes.
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There's a million ways one can say I LOVE YOU ALEMBIC.
I have one question...
Will, who do you compare your brilliance?
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 22, 2010)
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1. We admit that we are powerless over Photo Shop and that our lives have become unmanageable.
2. We believe that RestoreIT can restore us to sanity.
3. We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of Bill Gates (and/or Steve Jobs) as we understood Him.
4. We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of our hard drive.
5. We admitted to Bill Gates (and/or Steve Jobs), to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our System BIOS.
6. We're entirely ready to have Norton Anti Virus remove all defects of character.
7. We humbly ask Uninstall to remove our shortcomings.
8. We made a list of all persons to whom we have c.c.ed or forwarded chain Emails and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. We make direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would require use of Email.
10. We continue to take personal inventory and when we are wrong promptly delete it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with Bill Gates (and/or Steve Jobs) as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the RAM to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles with all electronic devices.
Amen
-
Such ironies, for any musician to slam the appreciation of visual arts when the majority of musicians (both enthusiast and professionals) associates their music to some form of visual art or concept -- when written plain text, is not enough.
Look all the million of music album covers in the world, and its keeps getting stronger...
Albums from both the past, and present are loaded with concept, and abstract art. Look in music stores, and on the Internet, and there's absolutely no end in sight, regardless of the number of iterations.
So, with my obsession with art, (as you described it in so many heckling ways... ) I actually take it all, as as a complement; and yet I respect what you attempted to imply, but your attempts were dis-respectful.
But you know what, you should try to chill out and don't let things small things easily rattle your chains. Man, you let pictures (which has completely nothing to do with you) cause so much unnecessary tension and stress. This stress is bad for you, and it hardens the arteries which is not good, and adding more gray hair, and wrinkled skin is good for what?
I waited over 20 un-promised, and uncertain years for 2 things to happen (for this insult to happen):
1. The concept idea/art and shape, (which is not a promised discovery...) and
2. The feasibility for Alembic to accept the project (which some projects they do in fact, refuse).
So with both successes, your heckled statements, magnitude of force, equals to a fly's fart.
So, if you don't like the bass, that's cool and I wish you well, as the Sun shines on your face while you reclining kicked back enjoying your most brilliant moments of excellent, but your comments here show more of your troubles, than of attempts to explain and understand mine.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 23, 2010)
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Just messing with you Hal... I didn't have one of those emoticons to put at the end of my post.
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It's no big deal Mike, its cool.
Also for those who would like sound tracks of the Toma_Hawk bass, please (raise you hand) send me your email addresses, and I will send my work directly to you on occasions as a prehear (my new word) not preview... yes, prehear
For those who were already bold enough to dare ask ( ) no need to type twice, because I have you down already.
No doubt, it will be FUNK with hopes to put a smile on your face and of rejoicing mental rhythms.
Also, in contrasting the sound comparisons of both series basses of the 76 S1 Shorty, and the Toma_Hawk 2010 S1, for fun I am not going to tell anyone which bass is which... Since I know you guys know The Alembic sound better than group in the world, (not including the makers)this makes the listening process hopefully fun over watching grass grow.
Eventually, people will know the differences, and at some point, I will confirm the sounds to the actual basses.
Just something worth doing, this Spring, and to be frank, I can't wait to pop my first set of strings on the Toma_Hawk... That's when a bass is played so long and hard, it eventually releases it's full pleasure of FUNK.
...and I plan to bust plenty of strings over the years, with my freaky hands...
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 24, 2010)
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Briant,
Your comments were well taken...
The current knobs on the Toma_Hawk, are the older or Old School control knobs -- similarly used on my 1976 shorty, and the control space on my 76 S1, is not that much of a difference in spacing.
These style of knobs (classic), were are used on some of the original Series basses. The classic knobs are larger, and if I felt they were cumbersome, and not permitting my fingers enough space, I could always get thinner knobs. However, I doubt it very seriously, this would be a problem for me now, or in the future...
One last tid-bit...
When I tweak my bass controls, I mainly touch the upper rims of the controls. However, when I play my electric guitar, my full pinky finger raps and grips around controls sometimes while simultaneously picking. Jimi Hendrix videos helped me learn this technique .
However, I never come close to hubbering around the bass controls as much as I do, with guitars.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 27, 2010)
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Notice the knob spacing are almost, if not the same on both basses...
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 30, 2010)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75952.jpg)
Dedicated to Quincy Jones
Walking (Basses) In Space.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 30, 2010)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/75962.jpg)
Dedicated to Batman and Superman.
However, Spiderman is already in good company with another very well known Alembic member.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on January 31, 2010)
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Returning the favour:
Way to go with this unique model!
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76066.jpg)
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Well, yesterday I learned 2 of the top 5 of my choice favorite bass FTC builds, were completed and heading to their owners.
To: Ed and Rick...
My best regards to you, and your wonderful axes! It was quite a joy watching your basses, while being built, and I hope both of you guys, show your latest action pictures in the future. Just create a thread, and slam them with tons of pictures!
With so much excitement, I am also very happy to know, my Toma_Hawk Bass is now with Ron -- for his final engineering, and calibrations exercises.
It's been a long time coming, and I am getting really excited now...(to say the least.)
Anyway, after Ron's work is complete, the bass get's re-tested until it passes all phases, and at some point, Mary inspects until she approves... and only after she approves, -- I'll get the call.
I have no clue, on how long this is going to take so, I'll just leave my concerns to a higher power, and get on with life's other interesting concerns...
Mica said she would provide more body shots. The back-plates are chrome metal plates. After thinking about wooden plates and how beautiful they would be on this bass, I voted for the metal plates instead.
I had an epiphany for having a stronger desire for metal back-plates VS. wooden ones, but here's why I wanted metal ones...
First, the original concept, included metal plates, and since this is a smaller bass, the metal plates added weight, are a welcoming addition to counter balancing the neck. Secondly, although wooden plates are surly better looking, however they offer very little utility in shielding RF noise, and providing the strengths, for a lasting and more durable bass.
So, the Chrome plates wins... and with all the benefits they provide, it's my Toma_Hawk's original signature recipe, for this FUNK HEAVY METAL MONSTER!
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 03, 2010)
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(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76117.gif)
Then a voice came...
With the power invested in me, Your Toma_Hawk Bass will reign peaceful low notes to all worlds, possess it, but don't let it possess you.
Now, GO!!!!
[Lightning]
WAAAAAAK PAAAAAAAAK POW!
(Message edited by the_jester on February 04, 2010)
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But what if it sounds like an '84 Westone and the action is three inches off the neck?
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What, in reference to the Toma_Hawk bass?
Oh, I get it now...(innocent me) you're cracking jokes... Haa haaa, that was so funny.
Now, I have a question for you... (you might find this funny too...)
Have you ever heard of an Alembic Bass, let alone seen one that are made the way you described?
If so, please do me the honors share this insight with me, I am sure it will be very entertaining as well.
O' well, ...what ever make's you happy.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by the_jester on February 04, 2010)
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It's a joke, man. Calm down.
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Actually, I was joking too.
It's all good.
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Ready for Ron here:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76156.jpg)
and the picture of the peghead you requested:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/76157.jpg)
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I think someone is not going to sleep today!
Congratulation Hal, looking spectacular!
Greg
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Soon, soon, soon.
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THERE IT IS...
THE ULTIMATE HOOD ORNAMENT
What a journey this had been...
Seeing the Alembic logo on my Toma_Hawk bass, is truly heart felt. I honestly had never felt this way about any inanimate object before. This is the big one folks. This is a real treasure for me, to behold and become inspired.
I am just a nobody, with a dream.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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Thanks Greg, and Musashi for the great words.
It will not be too long now...
Peace and Love,
Hal-
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And we have, what, 477 or so posts on this thread?
I suspect I was right.
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This thread will not stop until Mica stops it, or better yet... after I get this bass home safely.
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I hope that's the case.
I'm looking forward to the It's here photos. I just hope that you don't forget to post them in all the excitement.
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Is it only the Series instruments that need to be calibrated by Ron exclusively?
What about the non series ones, do they all need calibrating and if so who does it?
Jazzyvee
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Hi Mica, were the holes drilled?
The picture below was sent to your email.
Hal-
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/71311.jpg)
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Got the word by phone today to change to picture #1 from last Friday.
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Hi Susan/Mica
If I wanted multiple LED colors, is that a major change?
I am thinking one more color... on the the two octaves on the 12th and 24th fret.
Hal-
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Mixing red, green and amber is not a problem. Mixing blue with anything else is a major deal. It's possible, but not with the size constraints on your particular bass.
In our email conversation, I wasn't sure if you were talking about the sterling silver rings around the LEDs. Here's what they look like when the LEDs are off:
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/68939.jpg)
Let me know if you were referring to something else.
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Keep them all Blue Mica.
Thank you,
Hal-
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Does the picture clear everything up on the inlays around the LEDs?
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It sure does. I like this very much.
Thanks again, I am good.
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Hi Hal,
A buddy of mine had blue LED's on his custom Warwick. He said they disappeared on outdoor stages/daytime festivals... Just thought you would want to know.
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Look at the Blue shimmering and twinkling waters on a tropical Island Oasis, against an orange Sun which is setting.
Look from the Astronaut's outer space hubbering windows, and grace the most spectacular and most important color to guide them back home.
I want to see blue when I look down, and when I hold my hear up to the sky.
One last thing... (and I mean no harm...)
The Toma_Hawk is an Alembic with Blue LED's.
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Hi Mica,
Please take note of the string spacing measurements
between the spaces on the bridge.
0.52 inches at each space unit (1,2, and 3) is my desired string spacing for the Toma_Hawk.
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/70470.jpg)
Thank you,
Hal-
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on September 16, 2009)
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The string spacing is determined by the fingerboard dimensions you specified. I checked the order and see the fingerboard is built with 1.6 x 2.15 (nut x 24th fret). This calculates to a bridge spacing of about .57 inches between the strings.
So, if you want the spacing tighter at this point, we'll need to cut the slots of the E and G string farther from the edge of the fingerboard. This space we call the edge allowance and it's measured from the edge of the string to the edge of the fingerboard. The default setting is .15 inches.
To get .52 at the bridge, the edge allowance would have to be increased to about .23 which is fine, many basses have that large of a space and some even larger, we just have to know you want it.
Your drawing indicates the space between the strings at the tailpiece, which will be slightly wider yet than the bridge.
So you'll have to tell me if you want to:
1. leave the string spacing at .57 with the default edge allowance of .15
2. change the string spacing to .52 with the edge allowance of .23
3. something else entirely.
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1. Leave the string spacing at the default value of 1.6 x 2.15 (nut x 24th fret). This calculates to a bridge spacing of about .57 inches between the strings.
Thanks Mica!
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Hi Mica,
As you are surly aware, the battery compartment for the 1976 Short body Series I, is located along the the solid neck through area.
If possible, for the Toma_Hawk, I request to keep the neck through free of any cuts for batteries or any electronics (if possible). I am not sure if we discussed this, but I aware from looking at other basses (Series in particular) you guys don't cut through the neck anymore... Just checking to make sure.
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We discussed this by email, but the battery location has to be on the neck, especially in the abbreviated custom body shape on your bass.
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Yes, I agree.
Battery on the neck is old-school cool
No changes.