Author Topic: Spoiler and Elan (Read 145 times)

FC Bass · « **on:** July 28, 2006, 04:11:52 AM »

Hello all, I wonder why were these beautiful basses were removed from the regular Alembic product line? They are still available as custom options on various models but discontinued as specific models... I wonder why, In my opinion these are the best body shapes Alembic has ever offered. Especially the Elan headstock design, which I find much more appealing then the Europa headstock design (this is a reflection of my personal taste of course...)
Cheers!
F.C.

(Message edited by fc_spoiler on July 28, 2006)

jazzyvee · « **Reply #1 on:** July 28, 2006, 11:05:49 AM »

I'm a big fan of the Elan body shape too and yes the headstock design is great. I do love the Europa shape too.
I don't like the pointy cones shaped headstocks that some alembics have.

This also is a reflection of my personal taste.

bsee · « **Reply #2 on:** July 28, 2006, 12:18:32 PM »

Well, I don't think it really matters. I don't know for sure, but it seems like a significant portion of the Alembic business is in custom instruments. I would be surprised if even half of current production was in stock basses to go sit in store windows. With the average dealer stocking only a handful of basses, how many models can you really keep in regular production?

There is really no model that is truely discontinued since they will build any of them to your requirements. There may be some electronics package from 20 years ago that they wouldn't replicate, but you can order just about anything.

In terms of taste, I prefer the short scale SC basses and the longer scales in the Balance K shape. The fact that we differ in our opinions is why they will still build you whatever you want.

-bob

jazzyvee · « **Reply #3 on:** July 29, 2006, 05:17:49 PM »

That is very true, and in reality if I was in a position to buy a Series I or II bass that was in really good condition at a good price, I doubt if i'd let the body shape dictate. It would be the sound.

My favourite Alembic shape is the short scale SC bass, then Elan/Europa for a long scale, then the Orion bass.

Jazzyvee

gtrguy · « **Reply #4 on:** July 31, 2006, 11:07:08 AM »

Maybe the maple body on the Elan was not fancy enough for a high end bass? And the Europa electronics have a couple more bells and switches than the Elan?
I love the balance of the Elan shape, but I actually like the cone headstock more than the normal Elan one.
I think the neck woods account most for the tone.
Anyway, just my .02 cents worth.
Dave

FC Bass · « **Reply #5 on:** August 02, 2006, 04:07:52 AM »

Nostalgia:

Thanks Marcky for the pictures! (Marcky's profile) (Message edited by fc_spoiler on August 02, 2006)

FC Bass · « **Reply #6 on:** August 02, 2006, 04:15:22 AM »

jazzyvee · « **Reply #7 on:** August 02, 2006, 11:08:00 AM »

I have that catalogue as well. In fact I have two different ones that I got sent to me from Alembic before i got round to buying one.

It's my guitar porn magazine. lol

57basstra · « **Reply #8 on:** August 02, 2006, 06:54:13 PM »

Wow again! thanks....(a bit of internet bass guitar porn!)