Author Topic: Spyder Byte (Read 217 times)

5a_quilt_top · « **on:** July 02, 2012, 12:49:35 PM »

I probably (definitely) need my head examined, but I was so impressed with the Stanley Clarke Signature I received two weeks ago (can't put it down), I decided to get another Alembic much quicker than anticipated.

I originally thought a Series I or II would be my next move, but I did a little more research and decided to go in a completely different direction.

Sooo...

Spyder 44/50 arrived on Friday and was given a thorough workout this past weekend.

This is a BIG bass with a big neck. It weighs 12 lbs (50 lbs. in the case) and the case is half again as big as a normal bass case - it barely fits in the back seat of my Jeep Wrangler. I'm a big guy (6'-4 / 210 lbs.) with long arms and I can barely reach the tuning keys when it's strapped on.

But the impressive thing is it's perfectly balanced and because of this, it doesn't feel that heavy when I'm playing it standing - but I am using a wide strap to distribute the weight.

The sound is massive, even at low volumes. Huge, clear piano-like tone with virtually infinite sustain anywhere on the neck (without the aid of compression). But it is also unexpectedly capable of great delicacy and nuance. Notes lightly-plucked above the 12th fret ring with bell-like clarity at low volume.

In addition, it has stereo capability. Lighting up two amps simultaneously with this beast both intensifies the tone and allows for greater control over it.

If anyone else here owns or uses a Spyder, I'd be interested in sharing your experiences.

senmen · « **Reply #1 on:** July 02, 2012, 01:01:51 PM »

Hi 5a,
congrats to a great bass!
I did own two Spyders, a 4string and an 8string. They were gorgeous....
Unfortunately I don't have them anymore.....
Greetz
Oliver (Spyderman)

David Houck · « **Reply #2 on:** July 02, 2012, 01:08:12 PM »

Congrats David! I played a few years back; they are beautiful basses.

5a_quilt_top · « **Reply #3 on:** July 02, 2012, 01:24:17 PM »

Hey Oliver - I did read several of your past posts when I was researching the Spyder and your enthusiasm contributed to my decision.

8-string Spyder...yikes. I can only imagine how huge that sounds.

Playing that neck must be unreal.

You must posses a grip of iron!

5a_quilt_top · « **Reply #4 on:** July 02, 2012, 01:32:10 PM »

Dave -

Thanks - great pic, BTW.

I see the required wide strap has been employed!

senmen · « **Reply #5 on:** July 03, 2012, 02:38:02 AM »

Hey 5a,
well the 8 was very easy to play and it was real fun.
BTW do you have the V or the cone headstock on no. 44?
Oliver (Spyderman)

5a_quilt_top · « **Reply #6 on:** July 03, 2012, 08:28:53 AM »

V headstock on #44.

FWIW: deciding between V or cone was harder than I expected because they both look great.

I had the opportunity to get either and the V Spyder won because it was a little less $$$ and I thought it looked more distinctive.

Just finished playing it again this am and struck an open A which sustained for over 30 seconds before I accidentally touched it - unbelievable.

pace · « **Reply #7 on:** July 03, 2012, 03:39:45 PM »

I didn't realize there were this many Spyders produced.... When I first visited the mothership in 2004, I want to say they were in the high 20s, and assumed all the Entwistle fans put in their orders by then.... The maple I chose at the time for my custom build actually came from the Spyder stock....