Author Topic: Adding a Q switch to an Essence  (Read 907 times)

kimmo

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« on: May 10, 2012, 08:44:39 AM »
So - I have been reading a lot about the q switch, and if I have understood what I've read, the q filter on my Essence is always on. Adding the switch will enable me to take away the boost at the top frequency, thereby getting less attack from the strings, right? I think this would benefit some of my playing.  
 
So - where can I get one? I tried emailing Alembic, but have had no answer. I guess they are really busy, which is good. Busy builders thrive, resulting in more great instruments.  
 
I can't find an ordering option for the q switch, and would like to know how to get one. I have a very qualified tech where I live, that can do the work, but would like to use original parts.
 
The Essence has the most wonderful sounds I've heard and has cured my longing for another graphite necked bass, but being able to reduce the attack would be great.  
 
Thanks!
 
Kim

jbybj

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #1 on: May 10, 2012, 09:28:05 AM »
I've always gotten what I needed by calling. Of course, I'm in the same time zone as Santa Rosa, so it's not too difficult for me, but if you can be awake during their business hours, call them.

mica

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #2 on: May 10, 2012, 12:24:29 PM »
Hi Kim,
 
I've checked all my incoming emails, including the Helpdesk, and I don't have a match for your email address in your profile in my filters or inbox. Weird.  
 
Anyway, you need a switch and a capacitor and instructions. It's actually pretty easy. I'll add the AE-2 Upgrade Kit to the Alembic online store later today and post a link here. That will probably be the easiest way for you to order.  
 
Glad to hear you are enjoying your Essence, I'm rather fond of mine too.

tmoney61092

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #3 on: May 10, 2012, 08:43:02 PM »
i'm also interested in this upgrade for the Persuader I'll be getting next week :D
 
~Taylor

kimmo

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #4 on: May 10, 2012, 11:19:18 PM »
I'll get the kit once it is available in the store. Thank you very much for your help!
 
Kim
 
(Message edited by kimmo on May 10, 2012)

mica

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #5 on: May 11, 2012, 11:01:55 AM »
I couldn't find this assembly last night when I had planned to take the picture, so Tony gave one to my this morning. You can find the part in the store here:
http://alembic.stores.yahoo.net/qforac.html

mario_farufyno

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #6 on: May 11, 2012, 11:34:59 AM »
Cool, and what about a 3 position switch option, Mica?
Not just a bass, this is an Alembic!

kimmo

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #7 on: May 15, 2012, 07:57:17 AM »
What is the middle position for?

jazzyvee

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #8 on: May 15, 2012, 09:03:07 AM »
With a 3 position switch there would be off and two top frequency positions. I'm not sure what the dB boost settings would be.
 
Jazzyvee
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jazzyvee

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #9 on: May 15, 2012, 09:04:46 AM »
With a 3 position switch there would be off and two different dB gain settings for the remaining positions applied to the cut-off frequency set by the filter. I'm not are what those db settings would be though.
 
Jazzyvee
The sound of Alembic is medicine for the soul!
http://www.alembic.com/info/fc_ktwins.html

adriaan

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #10 on: May 15, 2012, 09:41:53 AM »
I think the regular 3-position is off/6/9 dB. The one on my Spoiler is off/3/6 dB, and it was added at the Mothership - can't tell you if it would be as simple a DIY job like adding a 2-position switch.
 
I usually have it off or at 3 dB, which is rich enough to my ears. But then I don't have to cut through wall-to-wall Marshall stacks . . .

tmoney61092

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #11 on: May 15, 2012, 10:35:38 PM »
well luckily for me I only have 1 Marshall stack to compete with :p I'd still be interested in seeing if it could be a DIY job and how much it'd be for the 3 position, still highly considering the 2 way anyways
 
~Taylor

kimmo

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #12 on: May 15, 2012, 11:44:22 PM »
I think I'll be happy with the one listed in the store, so I'll go with that.
 
Kim

mica

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #13 on: May 16, 2012, 12:41:23 PM »
I added the 3-position option to the order page.

jazzyvee

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Adding a Q switch to an Essence
« Reply #14 on: May 16, 2012, 01:16:53 PM »
Will that switch work with signature electronics Mica?
 
Jazzyvee
The sound of Alembic is medicine for the soul!
http://www.alembic.com/info/fc_ktwins.html