How much difference does Balanced K make?

[Mark 63]

I love the sound and playability of my '77 Series I (long scale, point), but the weight and neck reach combine to challenge my ability to stand up and play. At just under 11 lbs (5 kg), the weight (mass) seems average for Alembic.

If one compared a Balanced K Signature to a Series Point that weighed approximately the same, the Signature would hang much better and a low F minor arpeggio would be closer to hand. Would that difference translate significantly to long-term comfort?

I recently bought a 5-string Elrick, which is 9 lbs. It hangs beautifully and I can stand up through a 3-hr group practice. But even though it sounds lovely, it's not in the same galaxy as the sonic greatness of my Alembic. Maybe I should have sold another guitar and taken a run at Trevor Lindsay's MK Deluxe instead. These Alembics ruin us for other basses.

[jwright9]

I have one if you are interested. Same as Trevors. Will make you a great deal.

[StephenR]

If you really want the Series sound and tone the Signature will get you most of the way there but it won't be the same. Series electronics have their own sound. I have never heard or played an Elrick but have a personal preference for any Alembic electronics, whether you would be happy with the sound of the Signature vs Series would be your call.  The Balance K will eliminate any neck dive but the instruments are still heavy, especially the Cocobolo ones, and along with a different reach for your left hand you will need to get used to having your right hand in a different place than on your Series, everything will feel a bit "pushed toward the rear".

Where do you live? If you have a way to play one of the Balance K instruments before plunking down a lot of cash I suggest you do so.

[jacko]

Where do you live Mark? If you're anywhere near Glasgow or Edinburgh you're welcome to try mine. CocoBolo front and back and 5 strings but I really don't notice the weight even playing a straight through 2 hour set. The signature electronics give me every tone combination I could ever want (tried a series 1 and couldn't tell any difference) and the playing position is spot on for me.

Graeme   

[Mark 63]

Thanks for these replies. I live in Connecticut, USA. So I’ll keep my eyes open for an opportunity to try an MK signature Balanced K.

[s_wood]

Mark:

I own a couple of Series basses with Standard and Europa bodies, and an MK Signature Balance K.  I know what you mean about the standard body Series bass.. that F on teh E string is a bit of a stretch sometimes. But both the Europa and Balance K bodies are ergonomically perfect!  They both balance very well, and the neck rests at a more typical position.  Personally, I go back and forth about whether the Europa or Balance K is more beautiful...   As to the tone difference between Series and Signature electronics, well there is a difference, for sure. It's not huge, but it's there. The only thing that sounds like an Alembic Series bass is an Alembic Series bass.  But to my ears the closest you can get to the Series tone in another bass is with the Mark King Sig electronics, especially if you use a Fat Boy pickup in the bridge position.  (You can find lots of posts about the Fat Boys on the Club.  Some people think a Fat Boy in both positions is a tad too bass-heavy and after trying that setup myself I agree.)   Best of all worlds, of course, is a Series bass with either a Europa or Balance K body - which Alembic will happily build for you for merely "pennies a day."