Author Topic: Fatboy P/U & Electronic Modifications (Read 75 times)

5stringho · « **on:** December 02, 2006, 10:36:48 AM »

I have a single Fatboy P/U on my Excel 5, and I'm wondering if there are any modifications that can be done to make the tonal pallete of the Bass even more versatile? With just the treble and bass knobs being tweaked, I can coax a wide array of sounds, but I'm wondering if it's possible to split coils, run series or parallel switches, etc. Any info would be appreciated.

lg71 · « **Reply #1 on:** December 02, 2006, 11:24:09 AM »

First, you cannot split coils, but you can always ad a second PU if you carve/route for it...

Your next best options, as far a Alembic electronic is concerned:

Upgrade to a Filter + Q-switch (I would do that if I were you)

Then, further, I read about the East meet West circuit aka EMW
where in fact you use both, the Bass/Treble boost/cut as well as a Filter + Q-switch, but for that, you will have to have it done by Alembic, because it is not a straight forward plug'n play job.

But the Filter + Q-switch, you can order it, and plug it yourself in 5 minutes.

Let me know what you think...

BTW: Ask Chris aka Bumhucker what he thinks about it, because he did the exact same mod and he told me that he is happy with it.
In fact, I bought his Bass/Treble boost/cut left over...

5stringho · « **Reply #2 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:12:11 PM »

Thanx, LG. I'll definately do the Filter and Q-Switch, and I'll see what Mica has to say about the EMW circuit. If it's not prohibitively expensive, that sounds like the way I'd really like to go. Sonic versatility. And I don't see a Series 1 or 2 in my future, so I'll do what I can with the one I've got!!! Thanks again, Mike....

keith_h · « **Reply #3 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:34:27 PM »

Michael,
I whole heartedly endorse the EMW package. I have it on my fretless Orion. The range of tone is excellent. I also have a 5 string Orion with the Essence electronics and Q switch. I like it quite a bit but between the two I have to say the EMW is my favorite. Just keep in mind the EMW will require 5 holes for the controls and one for the Q switch and cavity space might be an issue. The best thing to do is contact Alembic directly to discuss what you would like to do.

Keith

lg71 · « **Reply #4 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:35:30 PM »

My pleasure Mike,

You won't regret it, most people who did the Mod never looked back.
I have both, and I can tell you that given the choice, I'd go Filter + Q-switch anytime.

Just an advice, I'd go for the 3 positions switch (0/+6/+9db), instead of the 2 positions (0/+8db I think...), the price difference is small enough.
BUT, as you only have 1 PU, you could take it further, and have a double switch (two switches), like The_8_king_strings did I think, so you can get even more options...

I'd like to hear your feedback once you get it done.

lg71 · « **Reply #5 on:** December 07, 2006, 04:54:27 PM »

Hey, good old Keith, I just realized that you might be able to help me. That would be great!
It's a coincidence somehow, as you can see, I like to help or advice too, and like anyone else I can always appreciate the same in return.
At this minute, at might have nothing to offer that could interest you, but who knows...
http://club.alembic.com/Images/393/34054.html?1165527465
So, we have got things in common (apart that at 16 I wasn't at school anymore ), I might end up with a EMW circuit like you

5stringho · « **Reply #6 on:** December 10, 2006, 02:06:45 PM »

Keith'

Thanks for the help and the personal insight with the mod I'm considering. Think I'm gonna go with the EMW w/ 2 Q switches. That should give me quite a bit of versatility without the bull of adding another pickup or something. My Excel looks clean and mean, and I really didn't want to rout out another P/U. Thanks again, Mike