Essence needs help. Restore or customize?

[BassFishing1]

Hi All,

I’m new to the club.  I just bought a beat up Essence 4 string online (92K7148).  For some reason I am just drawn to basses that need help.  Previous owner removed the original pickups and electronics and rerouted it for an AXY pickup and a Spoiler pickup (not sure if those two are even compatible together).  They also removed the finish off the body and lost the nut height adjustment screws.

On the plus side the neck is straight and still has the original finish.  The way the bass sits now should I pay to restore  this bass or just have fun with it (I’m already into it for about $1000).  I may have overpaid, but it’s still a cool bass.  Plays nice unplugged.  Thought about adding some Aguilar pickups and electronics and just painting the body.  Maybe add a pickguard.  If the two Alembic pickups aren’t compatible together, maybe I just use one in the bridge position and try to get the alembic electronics to run it.

Let me know what you think.

Thanks!

[adriaan]

Hi Robb, welcome to the Club!

A pickup from a Spoiler would be an AXY, so that would make a matching pair. The MXYs that were originally on this 92 Essence are essentially the same pickup, just that AXYs have an oversized shell.

The drill pattern may be different between MXY and AXY, and of course there should be threaded inserts for the pickup screws. I notice the neck pickup is tentatively mounted with three screws sticking out the top - there should one pair diagonally under the flange, the other two over. See https://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=215.0 for the screw sizes.

[soflbass]

It appears, from the picture, that the bridge routing was also enlarged, but offset from center. That will require removal of the inserts, Dowling of the holes, re-drilling of new holes, and new inserts. If you put an AXY pickup in the bridge position, it will leave a gap on one side. Looks like a fun project. Personally, I would add the Alembic electronics back into the bass and add a q switch.

Have fun!

[BassFishing1]

Thanks for the info!  Mica did confirm the pickups would be compatible as well, and gave me a quote on new electronics.  I’m going to go that route and get this back into original shape (with bigger pickups of course).  Thanks again!

[David Houck]

Keep us updated on your project.

Depending on your budget, in addition to the new electronics, you might want to consider sending the bass to Alembic and have them refinish it as well; and if you do, I would recommend having them satin-finish the neck for a smooth fast feel.

[sonicus]

BassFishsing1

              I my self as well am drawn to unfinished projects and the such , I have repaired some my self or have had the good fortune and the kindness from Alembic  and other highly skilled craftspeople to assist with my efforts and sometimes with very custom requests  to finish them for me
The Alembic Essence Bass has a place in my heart , as I am an owner as well of 4 String & 6 string models . In my opinion the Alembic Pickups and Electronics would be best suited for this instrument . I get nothing but Compliments from  sound techs at live and studio gigs regarding the sonic attributes of my Alembic instruments .   Happy restoration ! & congratulations !

[edwardofhuncote]

I first came here almost 7 years ago with a similar story. With Mica's help, my bass got restored, and I was treated like I bought it new. Changed my life and perception of how basses should sound. Welcome to the Alembic Club. 

[pauldo]

Threads like this should come with a warning...
Graphic Content. 

Robb, you have come to a good place for guidance.
Can’t wait to see the “after” pics.

[mario_farufyno]

One vote for customize, turn it into a Essence Signature!

[edwin]

Another vote for customize! Keep us posted on the progress. I think it's a great opportunity.

[BassFishing1]

Thanks for all the parts Mica and Mary!  Got this bass fully assembled and it sounds great!  Body still needs a refinish, but not that important to me.  It’s a players bass.  Perfect as is!

[gtrguy]

Looking good!

[soflbass]

Nice! Happy playing.
Now you can decide what to do with the finish.

[mario_farufyno]

Happy to see it back on track, congrats.

[gearhed289]

Sudden change of heart?
https://reverb.com/item/40654207-1992-alembic-essence-4-bass-project-usa