Looking for lightweight (under 9 lbs.) Alembic Essence

[mtjam]

Trying to give my aching back a break by looking for a lightweight Essence. Would prefer some trade plus cash deal. I have a 78 Rick 4001, a neck-through Musicman Stingray, a Musicman Sterling, and a National Beatle bass to offer. Let me know if you have an Essence cluttering up your closet that you would like to part with. Would prefer an in-person deal within an hour or two of Maryland. Thanks for looking!

[edwardofhuncote]

I'll keep an eye out Rob, but in the meantime I can recommend this product, firsthand:

http://www.hoverharness.com/

Not sure of your specific condition, but I certainly know about aches... and got the Titanium to show for it. Rich's Harness definitely does work... it's a little bit awkward at first, not feeling that weight, but you get used to it. I've also discovered you can still wear a strap with the Hover Harness system, for extra stability.

[mica]

I know you were looking for a trade, but the lightest weight Essences have a Mahogany neck like the one at Will Gunn's shop. You can verify with Will, but I think this one clocks in at just around 7 pounds.

[mtjam]

Thanks for the advice, Mica and Greg. My back has been pretty jacked up after my recent gigs. Mica, I love that mahogany-necked zebra wood Essence at Will’s shop. However, that’s most likely beyond my means right now. It is probably the perfect bass for me! Greg, I have tried one of those harness straps before (not the one you suggested), and I found it to be very awkward. I have bulging, degenerative discs, and I have really struggled lately making it through gigs even playing basses weighing 9 lbs. or less. I recently bought an old National Beatle Bass; the weight is nice but it makes me play in a very awkward position, which exacerbated the problem.

I’ll keep my eyes open. The pain I’ve felt at gigs and the days after has me wondering g if I can continue playing. Maybe I’ll talk with Will. Have a great weekend!

[growlypants]

DO NOT stop playing.  There are actual stands around, that hold your bass in a playing position, apart from you entirely... maybe that's what you eventually will check out.  I certainly hope so!

[rv_bass]

And there is nothing wrong with playing sitting down, I do it all the time!