Author Topic: Anyone know model? (Read 181 times)

exclusibass · « **on:** May 14, 2011, 06:38:44 AM »

I'm new to the Alembic world. I've been playing bass for 30 years and have always wanted an Alembic and I think I'm going to take the plunge. This is a picture of one I'm looking at. Could anyone tell me what model this may be? Is it a Mark King series? Also, does anyone know an approximate ball park range for this series? I understand that varies a lot by condition, just didn't want to get ripped off too badly.

adriaan · « **Reply #1 on:** May 14, 2011, 06:58:53 AM »

Hi John, welcome to the Club!

That's a very nice looking bass there. It is the Mark King (or Large Body) model, but in the 3/4 size variation and with an omega cut-out. Three neck laminates (purpleheart by the looks of it) is an upgrade for a 4-string.

Top wood is difficult to say given the distance and the lighting: quite probably walnut, but could even be quarter-sawn zebrawood.

Electronics are clearly Signature. The series moniker is for the top-of-the-line instruments, with high end electronics and an external power supply.

Looks a lot like a 32 medium scale.

pace · « **Reply #2 on:** May 14, 2011, 08:05:59 AM »

Welcome John!

The 3/4 MK has to be one of my favorite body shapes. As Adriaan pointed out, the bass has Signature electronics. The only question would be whether it is a Signature Standard or Signature Deluxe, only difference being a rear laminate. Guessing by the neck recipe, I'd say it's a Deluxe, but since practically every Alembic is made to order, you never know!!!!

exclusibass · « **Reply #3 on:** May 14, 2011, 09:10:08 AM »

Wow!!, I'm amazed at how well you guys know your Alembics. Thanks so much for the info. I hope to be a proud owner soon.

skyboltone · « **Reply #4 on:** May 14, 2011, 10:07:43 AM »

That wouldn't be quarter sawn would it? I would call that rift sawn or flat sawn. I'm open to correction. In fact the word sawn now has me worried; sawed? (let's see here, action begun and ended in the past would be past participle. Turns out both are correct according to Miriam though Webster may disagree) I worry too much eh? Beautiful bass.

Dan

(Message edited by skyboltone on May 14, 2011)

adriaan · « **Reply #5 on:** May 14, 2011, 11:36:00 AM »

Oh dear, yes - Dan you're quite right: it would be flat-sawn.

keith_h · « **Reply #6 on:** May 14, 2011, 11:51:31 AM »

Tulip wood top?

Keith

mikedm · « **Reply #7 on:** May 14, 2011, 12:46:28 PM »

Olie O's has two 3/4 scaled body basses and I gotta say both are extremely comfortable to play.

My vote is for tulip wood. Nice top whatever it may be.

seventhsunbass · « **Reply #8 on:** May 15, 2011, 03:17:23 AM »

Welcome, John, from a fellow engineer though not elect. You will find, as I have, a wealth of info from the users here and quite possibily the kindest folks in any forum on the web. I believe this is the one for sale @ the Guitar Center in Santa Clara, California listed as: USED ALEMBIC CUSTOM BASS W/ TULIPWOOD TOP, no? If so, kuddos to Keith. I was looking for one there as well but stumbled on a Rogue in TX that struck my fancy. Enjoy.

gtrguy · « **Reply #9 on:** May 19, 2011, 07:12:11 PM »

You might be able to get a nice series one used for less than they (GC) want.