G, I hear what you are saying. The thing is, it's all good. The sound of the bass was fine, but I think the old finish, which was very thick, inhibited the tone. I have really liked all the newer Alembics I've played, so I imagine the tone will change, but it won't be worse, just different and maybe better (hopefully better). Given that it can't be less than excellent means that to me, even if it does change, it will still be great! I'll be sure to let everyone know.
Edwin
PS I was really tempted to go with the oil finish because I love the tone of all my oil finish basses, but Mica pretty much explained how much better the regular finish protects the bass and that the tone shouldn't be that different.