1st Time Alembic Buyer Questions

[threality]

I am hoping to buy a bass that is shown on the Alembic Store web page...
 
My first two questions are:
Can I order the road case for a pre-existing bass that already has a case with it? And if so, can the original case be sent back for credit towards the new case?
 
Second, which strings would be recommended for a 36 extra long scale neck, and what gauge is the bridge and nut typically set up for?
 
Any input would be great...I have been trying to get in touch with someone from Alembic for some time now, but have never heard directly back from anyone yet...
 
Thanks...

[bassjigga]

I know they have custom built road cases before. I imagine in order not to pay for both, you would have to wait and have them ship the bass with the road case. If you got the original one I don't think you'd be able to send it back for credit because it would be considered used.  
 
Can't answer the string question.

[bsee]

The Alembic store usually displays instruments that are in stock at various dealers, not for you to order direct from the factory.  Look at the listing and it will tell you who you need to contact if you're interested in it.  Those questions you have should be directed to that dealer who can tell you what they can do for you.  
 
My guesses are as follows:
 
No, you can't get credit for the case from Alembic.  You may get credit from the dealer who can then keep the case for a bass ordered to replace the one sold to you, but that's a negotiation item.  Especially for a 36 scale instrument, the case may be ordered to fit it and not work for other instruments of different build specs.  Ordering a road case should be no problem, though.
 
Strings?  Probably a regular CX-3 set.  It is medium gauge: .045 - .065 - .080 - .105 - .128 for the five string set.
 
Looking at the bass you must be talking about, the contact info is:
 
B and B Music
205 S. Dual Hwy
Camden, DE 19934
(302) 697 2155  
 
After all, there's only one 36 bass on the list...

[mica]

So when Jeff was registering for the Club this morning, I was answering his email about strings. Right when I hit send for the message, I answered the phone and spoke with him. Funny how things work out!
 
The strings on that bass were actually supplied by the dealer. It's been a while, but I think they were Ken Smith brand. B&B specializes in extra long scale Alembics - even their 4-string is a 35 inch scale - and they always supply the strings. Our CX-3 strings will not fit on a 36 scale bass.  
 
As suspected, I can't take this case back for credit since it was made for the only bass with that body shape we've made so far. I suggest that even if you think you want a roadcase for everyday use, you will want to keep the regular hardshell case. Those roadcases are very heavy. One option I suggested is to make the roadcase to fit the hardshell case. Then you won't have to schlep around a might ATA case once you're at your destination.