Spoiler 5 volume

[dslapster64]

So I have a 1989 Spoiler 5, and the volume is surprisingly low. Is there a way that I can increase the overall volume? I already have the that individual pick up settings on full, and have raised up the pickups a little, which did help. I would love to get a little more beef on the tone. I know the cavity space is quite small, but I was just wondering if anyone has any suggestions. I even am willing to put  signature electronics in there if it will fit. What do you all think? . Love the bass but  just a little weaker than my other Alembics .

[gearhed289]

I had that problem with two Distillates, which have similar electronics to a Spoiler but with added bass and treble boost/cut switches. There is a mod that can be done that increases output. If you are somewhat experienced and brave, you can DIY, but you may want to send the guts to the Mothership to have it done. Here's a link explaining it -https://club.alembic.com/index.php?topic=5165.15
Perhaps Mica can chime in and confirm whether or not this applies to Spoilers as well. Best of luck!

[dslapster64]

Thank you so much. I really hope that this can be something that I can fix. Because the volume is so very low that there has to be something wrong with the guts itself. I hope Mica gets a chance to see this and chimes in as well.

[Artgeckko]

Hello dslapster64-
just chiming in...
Curious, has the volume always been low on that particular bass?
Do you hear a noticeable change when you adjust trim pots?
Neck and bridge pickup are equally low?

[dslapster64]

Hello Artgekko,
Yes, the Bass has always been a little lower in volume, and the trim pots do work because I have pushed them both up to the top and it is still quite low even though the volume did increase. It just seems like something is not quite right, but I cannot put my finger on it.

[dslapster64]

I wonder if they do have a bass and treble control/switch that I can add to the Spoiler?

[edwardofhuncote]

I don't think you can add onto the older Spoiler or Distillate circuits, as they are board-mounted. I'm happy to be corrected.

*I'm going to back up and issue the caveat, it probably can be done, just not easily.

Just to clarify; your Spoiler 5... it's lower output is low compared to your Series bass? I would expect this. I've never had a Spoiler only a Persuader 5 variation of one, and it's output is just short of scorch. It is less than my Series bass  though. I had an older Distillate that was comparatively anemic, but I simply ran the input gain on whatever preamp or amp I was using hotter.

[mica]

We can mod the Spoiler circuit to have louder output than original. Can you post an image of the circuit you have? There's several versions.

The bass and treble switches can be added to most Spoilers - but check for where they will mount on the bass. It can be a tight fit.