Author Topic: Newbie needing advice. (Read 160 times)

hornunit · « **on:** December 20, 2005, 11:00:30 AM »

Hi, I'm looking to find and purchase a small scale Alembic. Can anyone give me advice as to which models to check out and which to avoid. Is there anything I should be aware of about buying a small scale bass?

David Houck · « **Reply #1 on:** December 20, 2005, 01:50:36 PM »

Hi Stephen; welcome to the group!

Alembic doesn't make or hasn't made anything that isn't of the highest quality. So, without knowing any more about what you are looking for, I can only say that there are no models that need be avoided.

jazzyvee · « **Reply #2 on:** January 03, 2006, 03:53:51 AM »

I agree with Dave on that, although it is worth noting that some of the short scale models do not balance as well as the long scale ones.

I have an SC Deluxe signature in the Small standard body shape that does suffer heavily from neck dive. To be honest, now I have got used to the neck dive and automatically compensate for it in my playing. It is a bit discerning when you first start playing it.

So I'd be mindful of that when chosing body shapes especially if you are going for more than 4 strings on a short scale.
A good wide strap also helps.
Jazzyvee

mica · « **Reply #3 on:** January 03, 2006, 01:12:45 PM »

Just about every bass you see with this shape will be short scale:

As you can see, there isn't much of an upper horn. This shape barely balances, usually at about 2:00-2:30 on a strap. Holding it up higher so that your right upper arm helps brace it works for some players. Also using a strap with a suede lining will help it stick in place.

Of course, you can order a short scale length on any body shape. If you require a higher balancing instrument, you can select a different shape to pair with the short scale.