I've had experiences where what's already been described occurred, and also indifferent responses as well. My guess is some people just like what they're used to, and anything new will be viewed as suspect. The expense of an Alembic (or other high end instrument) precludes most players from acquiring one (unless they're independently wealthy, a very successful professional, or save for years), so most guys/gals buy what they can afford and like and use what they have.
In my case, I own two Alembics, two Gibsons, two Fenders, a Rickenbacker, a Musicman, a Pedulla, and an Ovation Acoustic Bass. Every time I've played my Alembics, the reaction has always been positive. I've also received compliments on my other basses too, so I guess reactions run the gamut. However, where I live now, most other musicians (mostly blues guitarists and drummers) don't want the bass player to stand out - they want him/her in the background, not out front or even in the middle. The electronics and tonal variations possible with an Alembic guarantee that an Alembic owner will be heard (not to mention seen!). It's sometimes frustrating at times that the only people who appreciate my Alembics are other bass players.
For my part, I'll continue to use my Alembics. I'm not a professional musician, and I don't need the money potential gigs might provide to survive. In other words, I don't have to accede to the wishes of other musicians if I choose not to - to each his own and all that. Don't get me wrong, I'm pretty flexible when it comes to my sound, and will make changes for the good of the group if that's what's needed. But if the other guys in the band don't like the Alembic sound(s), and I want to use my Alembics, I always have the option of moving on. I don't tell them what to play. They won't tell me either. Besides, there's always another band/musician/group out there looking for a bass player. I've spent too much money on my Alembics to leave them in the case just because someone else's idea of a bass sound is a one-trick pony Fender Precision plugged into an SVT. Besides, as the saying goes, if you can afford a Cadillac, why not drive one?
Anyway, my two cents,
Alan