Author Topic: Custom Order (Read 185 times)

olieoliver · « **on:** March 06, 2006, 10:16:10 AM »

I am seriously thinking of ordering a custom Alembic and would like some input on body styles. Tanndard Omega, Triple Omega, and balance K Omega are the three I am considering.
Any input would be appreciated.

lidon2001 · « **Reply #1 on:** March 06, 2006, 05:02:10 PM »

Hi Olie,

I got this advice from Valentino. Consider a custom body shape. Nothing quite cooler than having a unique Alembic, and by looking at Valentino's featured custom, you can get an idea of where he is coming from. Of course, a whole new body takes much time and R&D, but simpler mods can be made. My next bass is an Essence with a BalK top horn. Also, check out Bob's custom Rogue in the Rogue Showcase which has another simple mod that makes a striking change when finished. Of course, you might have a hard time talking RW into another half superfilter once you see it, but who knows...

Just something to consider among the myriad of choices.

T

olieoliver · « **Reply #2 on:** March 06, 2006, 05:22:30 PM »

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind. The MK I got on ebay has an extended upper horn, which I am told is a custom feature, and balances the bass real nice. It is heavy though. Thats why I was leaning toward the Triple Omega but maybe with and extended upper horn would be cool. The balance K body looks like it my be lighter too.
I love the Quilted maple look too. There is a photo of one that I saw here somewhere that had an incredible 3D look to it.

bigredbass · « **Reply #3 on:** March 12, 2006, 12:28:17 AM »

I have a long-scale, Standard Omega five. I live with it being a bit neck heavy as even Ron can't overcome geometry: The strap point on the upper horn lines up the D on the G-string above the first octave. This is for me the classic ALEMBIC shape, so I've learned how to live with it, had to have that look. And mine is not heavy in overall weight. You've just got to have that strap point closer to the octave (or at it) to balance easily.

If that sounds like it could be an issue for you, another shape might be better. I am 6'1, wear a 44 long jacket, and it's as far as I'd want to reach for first position.

The weight is a function of the shape + the woods involved. Naturally a big body with mostly dense, heavy woods, is gonna be more of a handful than a smaller body in the same or lighter woods.

But believe me, Susan and Mica and Val have the 'custom tailoring' down to a SCIENCE, and remember . . . they see and build them every day, so I would REALLY give weight (. . . unintended pun, ed.) to their insights.

As much as I admire all the dark wood masterpieces they build, I like the maple tops.
Mine has a quilt top (over mahogany) that I really like, and wish they got more calls for Tiger-stripe/flame maple, would like to see more.

J o e y

bsee · « **Reply #4 on:** March 12, 2006, 08:13:23 AM »

What are you looking at for scale length and number of strings? More strings means a heavier neck and calls for a longer upper horn to balance. Balance K would be my choice these days just on looks, although I would probably go for the shape of Valentino's latest bass before I would go for a triple omega, but that's just me.

The weight can be controlled with your choice of woods and by hollowing out the body some. If you have a discussion with Valentino, you should be able to figure out what is best for you. There are also some good dealers out there, but I am not sure they get too deep into those sorts of customizations.

Good luck
-bob