Ordered it, waited patiently, got it, Love It! Been recording with it and I am very impressed with what is coming out. Now I know how they get the sound I could never quite find, and that is just direct. I cant wait till I really start playing with the sound possibilities. I cant even imagine what a series 2 would do, well, yes I can. I can tell you that owning Alembic forces me to approach the instrument a bit differently than I would with other instruments I have owned in that my touch is much lighter now. I get more with less effort and much better results. I am a naturally agressive finger player and the Epic handles what I do with ease. I love the neck width and the natural satin finish is very cool, especially on the neck. Truly an Alembic player for life.