Author Topic: Refin/Oval inlay installed question? (Read 262 times)

echo008 · « **on:** July 01, 2006, 01:21:12 PM »

Hi Guys, I just recently purchased this awesome 5 String Essence (Flame Maple/Ash) I am very happy to be back here on the boards as I have not had an Alembic in quite awhile!!! After I get this baby all polished and setup I wanted to inquire what the cost would be for a refin (Blueburst) not that it needs it right now but for the future I am considering having work done on this one. As well what is the cost to have Abalone Ovals installed? is that even an option on completed basses? is this something you guys would do? Thanks! Great to be back I cant wait to have my New/Old Essence.

- Tom

bsee · « **Reply #1 on:** July 01, 2006, 02:11:59 PM »

Hi Tom-

I don't know for sure, but I have the vague recollection from previous threads that the frets would have to be pulled to do the inlay job. If this is true, it would be possible but more expensive than simply adding the inlays. Of course, you'd have brand new perfect frets when the job was done.

I suspect the overall cost for both jobs would approach, if not slightly exceed, the current market value of the bass.

echo008 · « **Reply #2 on:** July 01, 2006, 02:21:09 PM »

HI Bob,
I see ... and it does make sense I guess. Although that wasint what I really wanted to hear
I dont even have the bass yet, I dont anticpate doing anything right away anyway. But I would like to get a solid idea as to the cost.

How did the light/hard case work out for you and your new Bass, did you take delivery yet?
- Tom

bsee · « **Reply #3 on:** July 01, 2006, 03:18:00 PM »

The new custom is going to arrive within a month. I have been using the case on my other bass and it has been very good, though they could have done a few things better in the design. In particular, the way they have the pockets set up could be more useful. That said, it's much more convenient and durable than the factory hard case. 50/50 whether I use it on the new custom though. Maximum protection will probably be my #1 priority there over convenience.

As is the case with just about every instrument, upgrades are rarely cost effective. The exception is that special instrument that you plan to keep forever.

-bob

echo008 · « **Reply #4 on:** July 01, 2006, 03:58:09 PM »

Im glad you are liking the case, it is nicely made, even though it could use more compartment space.

This will be my first Essence so Ill see how I take to it. I cant imagine not liking it. My next one will be custom, finally. totally tailored for me. But I would like to find out about adding some nice touches to this one as well, depending on price (of course) Ill see if its really worth it.

Your bass truly looks amazing, Im glad it turned like you wanted it, I love the laminates and the Bee!....Congrats man! its truly beautiful.

- Tom

bsee · « **Reply #5 on:** July 01, 2006, 04:29:55 PM »

Thanks, Tom. Mica and I went back and forth about half a dozen times to design that inlay. In addition to all of her other skills, she was a great creative partner and executrix on this piece of art.

Playability and tone reports are positive as well, so I'm really looking forward to getting it in my hands sometime around the end of the month.

echo008 · « **Reply #6 on:** July 05, 2006, 11:57:32 AM »

Just wanted to bump this to the top to see is Mica or Val will peek in... Still curious about cost of upgrades?
? Refin (with oceanburst)
? Adding a Q Switch
? Possible install of Abalone Ovals

Thanks
- Tom