I have an Essence exactly like this one, same color, etc. This bass looks like one of a batch Alembic made for Guitar Center in the early 90s. Originally, these Essences were painted pink (yes, pink; Mica told me that's what GC wanted). When few warranty cards came back for them, Alembic contacted GC and asked about them. Apparently, the pink color wasn't such a good idea. They were then sent back to Alembic, and repainted red as you see here.
The Essence I have was in Iraq with me from 2005-2006.
To my knowledge, none of these basses have sustain blocks (mine doesn't, anyway). You might want to contact Mica about it.
Alan
