Author Topic: Excel or Rogue (Read 159 times)

shingor64 · « **on:** December 16, 2009, 10:51:05 PM »

Hi, I'm wondering between a Rogue and a Essence with Excel body shape for a new order.

I have already have an Epic, but feel the lower position is pretty far while I play standing.

I'm not concerning highest range approach, but lower position accessibility is crucial because I am a short person.

Does anyone compare Rogue to Excel with strap? How about sitting position also? I prefer 34 scale, just a body shape.

Thanks.

briant · « **Reply #1 on:** December 17, 2009, 12:31:42 AM »

You mention an Essence but don't seem interested in that body shape. I believe you should consider that body shape given you are a short person. The Essence is very easy to play. Reach is not an issue. I love mine.

That said my Rogue has fabulous balance/reach and it is 35 scale. A 34 scale would be even better for your situation.

I find the positioning of either bass is the same sitting or standing.

sonicus · « **Reply #2 on:** December 17, 2009, 01:47:59 AM »

If there were a 34 4 string Essence up for grabs in Francisco/Oakland or close to my neck of the woods
for the right price I would consider grabbing it.

mario_farufyno · « **Reply #3 on:** December 17, 2009, 06:34:36 AM »

I'm 1.70m (sorry, lazy to do the convertion) but never got any trouble reaching the lowest frets on my Rogue (sitting or standing). It seems this is more of a question on how you set your Strap than the Bodyshape it self, though. Anyway you know that you can always ask for a longer upper horn if you're going to order a custom Bass.

Never heard any complaint about a Rogue fret access, but - to be honest - I've never played an Excel to make a fair comparision. I love my Rogue's body but my current personal choice would be the Essence shape (really love that petite body!). But taste is so personal, don't you think?

The big difference between Essence and Rogue's eletronics is the Q switch, but it is a fine tool I've been using a lot. I use at least 4 different tones each show (according to each arrangement's needs) and it is essential to quick and drastic changes on its mids. I would stick to it if affordable.

bassilisk · « **Reply #4 on:** December 17, 2009, 06:42:06 AM »

I've never tried an Essence so I have a stilted opinion. I got a 34 Rogue several months ago and it is without a doubt one of the most comfortable and ergonomic shapes I've ever had.
Reach is a non-issue with every note accessible and it just hugs me back while wearing it. It feels like it was made for me.

shingor64 · « **Reply #5 on:** December 17, 2009, 07:14:09 AM »

Thanks for your kind responses.

The problem is that there are very few opportunities to see Alembics here in Japan.
I have only touched Balance K, standard point, small standard, Epic, and Excel so far.
I've never seen Rogue or Essence in real.

I like Excel so much that I would order a neck through Excel.
However, I start thinking about Rogue that might be better.

OK I will think again among them including Essence.

By the way, I apologize some language inconvenience. Thank you.

briant · « **Reply #6 on:** December 17, 2009, 11:35:22 PM »

Iwao-san, your English is vastly superior to my Japanese. Don't worry about it. :-)

The more I play my Essence the more I fall in love with it as my favorite Alembic bass. It is small, lightweight, and very easy to play. Plus it sounds absolutely fabulous. The controls are simple but get the job done. For a live performance bass I really am starting to believe it can't be beat. The only thing I miss on mine is the fret marker lights on top of the neck. I know that may sound strange but once you get used to seeing them lit up the more you just want it all the time.

jacko · « **Reply #7 on:** December 18, 2009, 03:44:08 AM »

Shinichiro, I have a balance K and a rogue and with a bit of adjustment on the straps, I can get them hanging at more or less the same position.

Graeme

crobbins · « **Reply #8 on:** December 18, 2009, 06:56:50 AM »

This is the Rogue I would get.

crobbins · « **Reply #9 on:** December 18, 2009, 06:57:22 AM »

Double post. wtf

(Message edited by CRobbins on December 18, 2009)

David Houck · « **Reply #10 on:** December 18, 2009, 08:37:13 AM »

Another option. There are two standard Essence bodies; the five and six string come standard with a longer upper horn, and this body can be ordered for a four string. If you order Essence electronics, adding a Q switch does not add much to cost; in fact adding a three position Q switch is quite reasonable. Neck through Excels are also very cool.

apdavis · « **Reply #11 on:** December 18, 2009, 01:17:33 PM »

I have a medium scale Excel. The middle range tones stand out on it more than my other neck through bases. If you are looking more for that tighter smile EQ tone you might look to using another body material than ash and a neck through construction, or an ebony laminate instead of just the walnut and maple striping for your neck.
For position issues it wears great high or low.