Josh, I'd offer a couple suggestions as well:
As Mica often points out, these don't sound like any of the other artisan basses, as inevitably virtually all of the other makers use Bartolinis or EMGs, and it's interesting to see how similar they all sound, despite how different they can look.
Alembics are very pricey new, as they just aren't built cheaply, and are built one at a time. But, there are always some floating around used that can be had for way less than new if you're watching your budget. There's always a turnover in the market of guys that bought one, said it 'don't sound like my Fender!', and are trying to get out of it so they can buy a MusicMan or Sadowsky. I LOVE it when I can find one of those guys! They do have their own tone, and they're not for everybody, but then what is?
Most modern amps have way enough EQ to cancel out any worries about 'enough bass' in the short or medium scales, if that size bass is a better fit for you. The tone is a bit different, but you will not lack for deep end, and you may not even hear that slight difference.
And they're built by the best people in the world. I bought a used Spoiler to begin with, and from the first time I found this forum, or anytime I've called and spoken to Mary and Susan and Mica, I've always been treated like I'd spent a million dollars with them. They really care about their axes and there's nowhere else where you will be supported and have silly questions answered like Alembic. I can't say enough about them, or the way they've always treated me.
J o e y
