How's that Q-switch treatin' ya?

[robinc]

I'm wondering how all of you fine Alembic owners feel about the Q-switch with a few positions vs. a continuously variable one. Do you find the former of the two limiting?
 
 How much do you think it would run me to have the mothership install continuously variable switches in place of the other ones? Thanks,
-Robin

[rob_the_fiend]

From what I understand, they only use the CVQ on series instrument. Maybe You can get them to make one with 1dB steps (0-15dB), total 16 steps.

[keurosix]

Good question!
Robin, what model Alembic bass do you own?
CVQ pot is standard on Series 2. Series 1 has a three position Q switch. Most other models have a two position Q switch (3 position is special order), and some models have a fixed-Q with no switch (ex: Essence). Some models don't have the filter & Q at all. You would have to contact Alembic to see if they can add a CVQ to your specific circuit, and what would be the cost. Space inside the control will also determine if it is possible. I'm not sure if a CVQ can be added to a non-series instrument. I only have experience with switched Q circuits on my basses and the SF2 which has a CVQ (Damping Ratio). I prefer the switches because it limits the possibilities. Sometimes too much control can be hard to manage especially live on stage. However, for studio work I think I can see the advantage of the CVQ for greater flexibility.
Kris

[bassman10096]

I found the CVQ hard to take advantage of on my S2 -- too many options to relate to intuitively (Let's face it - with everything else I have to do on stage, I don't have the patience for subtlety.).  The two position Q's on my Brown Bass are far more useful because they limit me to a finite range of useful options.  Would 3 position switches be better?  The jury's still out on that.

[robinc]

I found the CVQ hard to take advantage of...
 
Yeah, my thoughts exactly. As cool as a CVQ sounds, it seems like it could offer too many choices. I suppose it could be useful in a studio situation, but in that case you would probably have enough time to play with your amp or mess with the boards until you get the sound you want.

[adriaan]

I had my Spoiler electronics modified a couple of years ago. The major thing for me was to have a blend pot instead of the pickup switch, but I also found the standard 8 dB setting far too harsh. Like Robin, I had the idea of a Q switch with 1 dB steps. Mica confirmed that they could make one, but it would have to go on the waiting list for Ron W's bench time. In the end, I decided on a 0/3/6 dB switch.
 
To my ears, the difference between the three settings is subtle but definitely noticeable. If I ever order a custom Alembic the Q switches will probably be for 0/3/6/9 dB. And if there's only a 3-position option, then 3/6/9.

[David Houck]

CVQ is not available for non-series instruments.
 
In past discussions, some members have suggested that less than a 3db difference in positions is a bit insignificant.  I don't have an S2 (yet), so I don't know.  On my S1, I use all three positions (0-6-9) and find them very useful.  It's all very subjective and probably depends to some degree on your particular instrument and rig and the way you use the tone controls on both.

[briant]

I have Series electronics in both my Alembics that have 2-position Q switches.  I use them a lot and don't find myself wanting more.  A CVQ would be a bit overwhelming me thinks - especially when trying to make fast tone changes on stage; which I do quite often.

[jazzyvee]

id' be interested in a 3 position q-switch for my SC Deluxe and Europa. I wonder how much they would cost?
 
Jazzyvee

[jorge_s]

I've nicknamed my SII the Kaleidoscope.  You never get the same combination twice.  It's not that bad actually but on my new guitar I am going with the SI electronics (3 position q switch)to be able to find the sounds quicker.

[David Houck]

Jorge; I would think you could use that beautiful grain as indicators for setting the controls!

[terryc]

Sometimes less is more, I remember Mark King saying that he justs turns everything to max on his Alembics so subtlety was an issue with him when he used his Series II basses back in the late 80's/early 90's.
I find the 2 position Q switch useful to boost the frequency when the guitarist goes into a solo or to give more 'meat' when playing a song which requires more bass.
The Q switch whether variable or fixed must be the most useful tool on Alembic instruments, one which is not on any other makers instruments.
In a nutshell I couldn't do without it!!!

[jorge_s]

I agree.  The Q switch is like a little magic wand.  I've seen where Mica stresses that one can hear the effect of the Q more with the initial attack of the note rather that the sustain.  To my ears this really makes a difference.  When I am in the pocket locked with the drummer just a little movement of the Q is the difference between having that great piano Alembic attack and completely getting lost in the mix.  Finding the sweet spot can be tough because it changes from gig to gig.  Sometimes I think it changes from song to song.  When I find it though, that is when I think to myself: Yes! this is why I have an Alembic.

[robinc]

so only the SI comes standard with a 3 position Q, correct?

[keith_h]

Yes only the S1 comes standard with 3 position Q-switch. However it can be ordered on any bass with a filter and should be an easy retrofit to an existing bass. You can also get the Q-switch set up with boost levels other than the default 9db.  
 
Keith