Best alembic for slap/funk?

[Paco del Guacho (paco)]

I don't have the opportunity to play all of the different Alembic models locally (I actually haven't played one since I left NYC, where you can see nearly every model in a given day on 48th St.) and I am wondering if people can tell which model they think is the best for slap style play.  I would assume that the Mark King signature is a good bet given his style of play.  
 
I am also wondering if any of the cheaper models are good choices (since I have a limited budget), like the Epic (which I know Flea plays) or the Spoiler/Persuader (I would guess that the Persuader is a better choice since the Spoiler doesn't seem to have much space between the neck and the pickup).  
 
Any thoughts?  Thanks.

[mica]

The set neck models are great for slap - they naturally have a more pronounced midrange focus, craved by most slappers. It's not impossible to get similar sounds from the neck throoughs, but it isn't as automatic as the set necks.  
 
The space between the neck pickup and the end of the fingerboard has changed over time. The earliest basses didn't even have a truss rod cover. Of course, nobody slapped back in 1972 either. Now that playing styles have changed, the neck pickup has gradually moved back towards the bridge to allow more room for slapping, plus has the benefit of making it a little less bassy sounding, which can be a bit boomy when slapping.
 
You can change the placement of the neck pickup on any model for no additional charge - just specifiy the distance between the front edge of the neck pickup and the end of the fingerboard. This is Alembic, and nearly every specificaion can be changed to suit your needs.

[Jonathan Johnstone (stoney)]

Paco,
If you have a limited budget, the Epic is the way to go. I have a few custom jobs but bought an Epic off the rack because I really liked the way it responded to slapping. Like Mica said, it is really more automatic than the neck through models. They are less expensive but are 100% Alembic in tone rang and quality.
Good Luck,
Stoney

[Alfredo (kayo)]

Can you more experienced Alembicians school me on the deal with the neck through vs set-neck?  I am not very luthier savvy, have only recently started taking more interest, and would like some understanding about what the differnces are (neck through is self-explanatory, as is bolt-on).  What is a set-neck?  How do I know if my bass is set neck?
 
Thanks!

[graeme jackson (jacko)]

I have an Epic 5 string which is great for slapping, even on the low B. It's also good for playing fingerstyle and the tone controls can give you almost any sound you want. Best Bass I've ever owned ;-)

[Matt Bulmer (prime)]

Alfredo,
 
A set neck instrument has a neck built much the same as a bolt on but instead of being bolted into the body it is glued in.  
 
As for set-necks for slap? I've always slapped with the midrange cut and the treble and bass boosted. I think an instrument with greater midrange presence would not be to my liking for slapping. I DEFINATELY like the neck-through models though.

[Rami Sourour (rami)]

The Excel is the GREATEST slap bass in the world - period.  Ironicly, it is also the LEAST expensive Alembic.  It has a natural punch and growl that is without equal, and believe me, I've played ALOT of basses!  The Excel always delivers.  Simple, straight forward, and so, so awesome.  Once again, thank you Mica for designing it.  You helped me find MY sound!

[Paul Ellsworth (elzie)]

I have to agree with Rami  The Excel is great for every reason he mentioned. I guess it can be deceiving being the least expensive of the Alembic line. It also has a nice look to it.