1977 Alembic Series I & 1984 Spoiler For Sale

[David Houck]

Hi Tom, welcome to the board!  Where are there small holes in the back?  I don't see them in the picture above.  To determine scale length, measure from the nut to the 12th fret and then multiply that number times 2.  As I'm assuming you've already figured out, in Alembic terminology, 32 would be medium scale.  As mentioned above, you can reasonably state to GC that you would have to order new hat knobs.

[adriaan]

The small holes in the brass back plate are for making adjustments to signal level and humcancelling for each pickup individually.

[j_gary]

Hi Tom,
 
Sorry I took so long to respond. The old computer picked up a nasty virus which created havoc to my internet access. Had to dump all and start all over. AAARRRGGG!!!
 
She had those holes in the finish when I got her. The bass was untouched during the time I had her. I believe the only non stock items are the control knobs as Dave pointed out. She came without the truss rod cover which back during that time period was not uncommon.  
 
She is a 32, or medium scale. It's a lovely bass, plays, sounds, and feels great. All the electronics were functioning like new, no noise or electronic interference.  I supplied the power supply & case when I traded her in. She is a nice example of an early Series bass.  
 
The price seems a bit high comparatively speaking, but I have not shopped in quite a while. My own opinion is that these early Series basses are a steal at what they sell for. I paid three times that for a 53 P Bass because number one, I'm an idiot, and I've long searched for a first generation plank P Bass due to it's historical significance as the grandfather of the modern electric bass.
 
While I'm ecstatic over finding an original old 53 P the same age as me, these Series basses are a whole different animal. The 53 is great fun on rockabilly & blues but has it's limits. The Series can do it all and more. I have way more basses than brains, but if I had to pick one it would be easy, an Alembic. Considering what a new custom bass build is today, these old gals are a good value.  
 
It also gets you free admission to Alembic family & service. I have yet to purchase a new Alembic but have owned about 10 of various models. Every-time I call Alembic with questions or concerns I'm treated like I own the place.
 
Good luck Tom. Hope all of this wind may have helped.

[tommy]

Thanks Gary, That bass was fantastic. When I played it at the GC I was suddenly surrounded by a small crowd. One man said to me, A musician searches to find his instrument once in a lifetime and this is yours. Well, he was right! I never ever played a bass like that in my life. Both in terms of sound and playability. {Mrs. buttersworth} it was inspiring! but...to my disappointment, It was too huge and heavy for me. Then when I strapped it on it was ridiculous on me because of my short stature. When I sat with it, I had to cheat the instrument back so I could reach the F comfortably. So... I ordered a custom Alembic bass based on a variation of the  'little darlin' guitar  28' scale. :}!!

[j_gary]

Congrats Tom, one of the many advantages of Alembic world is the ability to custom order a bass to your specs. I like the basic concept you are working from. It should be a cool bass.
 
I believe I had the same epiphany upon discovering Alembic. I haven't been the same since my first SC short scale. I have ended up with a number of basses over the years, and yet every time I pick up my Alembic I wonder why I play anything else.
 
I understand the weight issue. Some models are fairly heavy, particularly the Series basses. Probably because of the way I play, I like a solid feeling, heavy bass. I have a tendancy to physically push hard on a bass in an attempt to make up for a lack of skill. As a result, many basses I can fret out during a song. Not an Alembic, solid & planted they are.
 
Good luck and enjoy your Alembic journey. Something tells me it will not be your last.

[otis]

Gary, is the Spoiler still for sale?
 
Thanks;)
 
Frank