New Member, New Bass

[5a_quilt_top]

Greetings!
 
As of yesterday morning, I acquired my first Alembic - a Stanley Clarke Signature Deluxe with quilted maple top & back - so I thought it would be appropriate to share my good fortune with all of you here.
 
I started pursuing this goal about 35 years ago after seeing Phil Lesh, Jack Casady and Stanley playing Alembics in the mid-70's and it feels amazing to finally have one of my own.
 
I celebrated by playing it for the first time last night. The experience was a revelation of sorts as it has caused me to re-think all aspects of my playing from technique to how I approach tone.
 
I play fingerstyle and have used everything from Fender to Rickenbaker to Music Man to PRS. The Alembic is like nothing else I've ever played before - more responsive, more articulate and capable of greater nuance - VERY touch-sensitive.
 
It made me feel simultaneously like a beginner and a player with far greater experience than I currently possess - if that makes any sense.
 
I look forward to corresponding with you and sharing the joy that this amazing instrument has given me.

[jazzyvee]

Welcome  David, my first Alembic was a Stanley Clarke Signature Deluxe bass too and that was a revelation in sound and playability.  
I think you have made a great choice on your alembic entry. Two filters make some great sonic possibilities.
 
We love photo's of new alembics so can I be the first to request/suggest that you , Check out the Showcase - Signature bass section and post some photo's when you get a chance.  
 
 
 
Jazzyvee

[hammer]

Welcome to the club David!  If you are like most of the fine people here, your SC will be your first but not your last Almebic.

[hifiguy]

I know what you mean about the touch-sensitive quality of Alembics, David.  It took me about a year to get over the Fender fingers I acquired in years of playing Jazzes to get the fingering precision needed on an Alembic.  You simply cannot hide anything on an Alembic!

[5a_quilt_top]

hifi - Fender fingers - that's a great description and exactly how it felt. Prior to getting the SC, I'd been working out fairly regularly on a '57 Precision reissue with a huge neck. Lotsa room to hide in all that maple.
 
jazzy - pix coming soon. I thought a long time before making the choice and last night confirmed that it was the right one!
 
hammer - your prediction is accurate. It may take awhile, but there will be a companion to the SC.

[hieronymous]

Congratulations! I began my Alembic journey 10 years ago this year, I also have a Stanley Clarke. Enjoy!