Didn't quite know where to put this thread so its here. I recall past discussions of this topic and even found theoretical threads in my search.
I'm setting up a Stereo rig for my Series 1. Currently an F-2B to the ELF Processor then to the Stewart Power amps. I have just purchased a second F-1X so I can do an A / B comparison of the preamps. The new component is the ELF M-1 processor set up for stereo. There is an SF-2 here too but I will leave it out at this time. There's lots of good info on the Alembic website regarding the characteristics of these preamps but I hope to actually "hear" the differences.
If any of you have experience A / B 'ing these pre's, you opinions would be most welcome. Thank's RV for the reasonably priced F-1X. This is my second purchase from a fellow club member and I hope to do more in the future.
Here ya' go Gary... one of our Club Members [Picure] made a nice recorded comparison between the two units using his Series 1.5 bass.
https://club.alembicguitars.com/index.php?topic=25102.0 (https://club.alembicguitars.com/index.php?topic=25102.0)
Thanks for the link Greg. I somehow knew you would have that in your noggin'. ;D It's a great place to start. But I think this test was done in mono, not stereo.Years ago I had to send in my F-2B to the mothership. Microphonic problems. I don't recall the details but Ron fixed it so I at least know my F-2B is factory spec. The 2nd F-X1 will be in the mail shortly and it looks like the serial # is close to my F-X1 in the rack. I'll pop both of these open to inspect the tubes to see if they match. I bought my F-X1, F-2B & SF2 used so unsure if stock.The F-2B has an additional unlabeled output.....I'm sending that signal to the tuner.
I mostly remember it because that particular bass is just a couple numbers away from my other Series bass (and your doubleneck, for that matter... ) of course his is on the other side of the world from me. Mine is only on the other side of the continental U.S. 😄 If he sees your thread, Jack [Picure] may chime in here.
I'm interested in what your findings are... I have two F-1X units, and an F-2B, but I prefer to use the F-1X's separately in mono applications for live gigs. My F-2B lives in the living room rig, racked up with a DS-5R and SF-2. I've got it set up so I can enjoy my old Series I in true stereo, but can quickly switch it to mono for the non-Series basses.
The stereo experiment is mainly for the Series 1 but the two Spyders can also run in Stereo. I'm a bit curious how the 8-string sounds. 8) ;D
QuoteThe stereo experiment is mainly for the Series 1 but the two Spyders can also run in Stereo. I'm a bit curious how the 8-string sounds. 8) ;D
well you should definitely try that out imho. i know a guy who made me some stereo TRS to 5-pin adaptors. you need something like the top one. 8)
oops forgot the attachmnet
Well, I have an original Rick-O-Sound breakout box for the Spyders.
RV's F-1X arrived in bubble wrap yesterday. Was this gem ever used? It looks brand new! As soon as I find a power cord for it I'll rack it up.
Gary, glad it arrived safely. Sorry about the power cord, I forgot to put it in the box. I will get that in the mail to you tomorrow. Thanks.
Gary, I just sent it priority mail, you should receive it on Saturday. Thanks! Rob
It's arriving TODAY (Friday) That's like overnighting it! Thanks.
Rob doesn't mess around. 😎
QuoteRob doesn't mess around. 😎
+1 on that
Yes. He's gone up and above! I'm sure after 50 years of packratting gear, I have a spare power cord. However, when resurrecting my SF-2 last year....i couldn't find the power supply. Luckily the FAQ section on the Alembic Club directed me to a generic supply from Amazon.
Well..... here it is... The Two Towers!
Left - Bridge Pickup - 2x12 ELF + TA12. 12" + horn
Right - Neck Pickup - 1x18 ELF + TA15. 15" + horn
I should probably reverse the neck tower to get that 18" sub off the floor.
Now.....where are my AI Roadies! ;D
That is a serious bass rig you have there to run those alembics through.
Are you set up there for a gig where I guess you are not going through the FOH.
No. No public performances in the future. Most PA's can handle this. This is just for experimentation at home. The power amps were bought new..... the rest was bought over 30 years of blowout prices for cabs & cables. The cabs were dirt cheap! No one wants these heavy old cabs anymore. The ELF processor, which claims to go down to 8Hz, is not recommended for bass guitar....the manual recommends a cutoff at 30Hz.
Quote from: garyhead on September 03, 2026, 05:26:53 PMThe ELF processor, which claims to go down to 8Hz, is not recommended for bass guitar....the manual recommends a cutoff at 30Hz.
Well, that's no fun!
Peter
I'm surprised all those glasses and the cabinet are all in one piece. Have you had any shatter?
I should have a copy of that rig in my case, for anyone claiming my amp is overkill...