Author Topic: Alembic ELAN (Read 152 times)

just · « **on:** January 04, 2005, 01:13:40 AM »

Hello,

I'm about to buy an Alembic Elan for 1250 Euro. It has two volume knobs and a lowpass filter. But there's no q-switch present. Is it possible to add a q-switch to the electronica? Is this bass worth 1250 Euro, considering some damage/openings in the finish.

Just

dnburgess · « **Reply #1 on:** January 04, 2005, 01:37:36 AM »

An aftermarket Q switch is available for the Essence, which also has a single filter control - so, hopefully, the mod. is also possible on your Elan.

Regarding value, you should have the bass checked by a luthier who knows his stuff. If it plays well, sounds good and the luthier says there are no structural issues (e.g. neck problems) and he/she can rectify the cosmetic issues at low cost - it will be good value for money.

David B.

1stbass · « **Reply #2 on:** January 04, 2005, 04:20:32 AM »

I agree with David. if the neck checks out, any minor stuff can be fixed. One day maybe even a factor refinish.
That is a very pretty Elan, very nice top wood.
If it is OK go for it.
BOL.

Doug

just · « **Reply #3 on:** January 04, 2005, 05:30:18 AM »

Thanks for your reactions. I've already played the bass and didn't notice any problems. Is there anything I should really check out about the neck. I don't have very much bass-knowledge, but I know it playes and sounds really nice.

Just

P.S. I've send a mail to Alembic with my question about the q-switch. I'll post the outcome.

dgcarbu · « **Reply #4 on:** January 04, 2005, 07:07:46 AM »

Hi Just,

What does the previous owner have to say about the cosmetic/physical history of the bass?, was it ever dropped off a guitar stand? Was it left exposed to the elements? Maybe Mica at Alembic can run the serial number to see if it has been in for repair. What will it cost to fix the minor problems? Depending on the outcome of the answers, they can be used to negotiate the price. Good luck, I hope all works out for you.

Darrell

bsee · « **Reply #5 on:** January 04, 2005, 07:45:40 AM »

Financially, most cosmetic repairs are a waste. It's pretty expensive to get a refinish job done.

For the Q switch, the old price is $55, but I am not sure how that will be affected by the pending increase. It could be $5-10 if you don't get it ordered today. That is a ready-to-install kit, and I believe that it can be added to any bass with a filter.

the_mule · « **Reply #6 on:** January 04, 2005, 01:00:17 PM »

Ha die Just, welkom bij de Alembic Club!

Several members might have already recognised the picture and/or the Elan itself from the Showcase thread I made: http://club.alembic.com/Images/411/12215.html?1093681522. Before any misunderstandings go out and live a life of their own, this bass isn't stolen or anything. I'm still the proud owner and it was me who advised Just to pay the Club a visit after he came to testdrive the Elan yesterday evening. Hopefully he realised that I'm a member too! Off course I'll respectfully stay away from the discussion regarding the Elan, it may feel a little strange, but I'm certainly OK with it. It's a beautiful instrument and I hope it will find a nice new home and owner. And as Just is already a member now... ;-)

FYI: the info request thread with the Elan's birth certificate from the 'A-files': http://club.alembic.com/Images/393/12027.html?1093500849

Wilfred