I agree with everything Oliver said. That's some serious weather-checking on the finish, definitely not stock tuners but probably ok, and the bass pickup's Q switch has been replaced. Everything (like that brass rear plate
) indicates that this bass has been played - a lot - so the condition of the frets would be something to look into.
If it were me and I felt I had to own this bass, the first thing it would do is go back to Alembic for a complete overhaul and refinish. It is lovely looking wood but the bass needs attention on many fronts.
I also agree with Oliver's point regarding risk. Alembics, being hand made often from a variety of different woods (and even variations of the same wood) are all individually unique and include distinct variations, intended or not. Similar to Steinway pianos. Concert pianists will often want to choose their favorite 9' Steinway concert grand from several because they vary and different pianos appeal to different player's tastes.
So buying and Alembic without having the opportunity to try it is a risk because you really don't know what it's like until you get your hands on it and plug it in. It WILL be a great instrument, but will it be the one for you?
YamatoJJ, this is why we were trying to encourage you to take the leap with that unusual Stanley Signature you found. You've spent some time playing that bass and you love it. That might still be your best way into Alembic World, in my opinion.
Jimmy J
