GreeneKing

Okay here's me at my 1st ever gig, 12 day's before my 55th! Sound checking - sans hat Gig: There's actually a video out there too but I'm not sure you'd be ready for that

It sounds like one heck of a bass. I just think about the fact that previously the extremely versatile 4 EQ was only available in the Bongo, which I personally like, (but many don't) and then they produce this incredible sounding, very versatile and very 'different' package electronically in yet another 'unconventional' shape. I'm normally very tolerant of bass shapes perceived by many as more unconventional. My personal jury is still out on the Big Al. I do know that if it was more Sterling-esque for example I'd be more enthusiastic, perhaps that says it all.

[quote name='Gust0o' post='591875' date='Sep 7 2009, 07:24 AM']Is it really that controversial a shape?[/quote] Going from the response in previous threads, it would appear so. Personally I'm not so sure yet.

Yet again MM seem to be putting a great package into a controversial body shape

Good to hear you're back at the bass malarkey Mike

Hiya Mike, long time no see. How is life?

I just start with my thump on the pickup and then floating anchor it down each string as I play. It seems to work and a change in tone is my hint that I've moved forward. Strangely I learnt to play over the neck pup and for a while found I gravitated there when playing. Now it's the opposite and I keep finding myself going to the burpy end

If you like the way it looks put it on. Play it and if you can play it okay leave it on. Personally I think it looks better with, and it might stop folk using the bass as a chess board

Reading between the lines the fluctuation is a one off, between posting and arriving? If that is the case then maybe the bass has received a good wallop of the sort that won't harm the protected bass itself but something delicate and susceptible inside like wiring or a joint? A bit Deja Vu Chris too with your amp I'd say trust the diagnosis as you don't have much option, agree on a settlement and put it down to experience.

[quote name='skelf' post='590944' date='Sep 5 2009, 07:48 PM']Don't get your hopes up to high for the "proper" pictures to be much better. It is a matter of record that I am crap with a camera.[/quote] You really aren't 'crap' Alan, it's just that some other folk are a bit better and have more time on their hands because they aren't/can't make such beautiful instruments. Don't change anything

I suppose the use of space, dynamics, timing and ghost notes, hammer ons and pull offs are all things to add to flavour the sauce. There's more variations out there methinks than you could ever use. Not to mention slapping (I told you not to mention slapping!). All the best with it, it's a constant learning curve.

[quote name='AM1' post='591028' date='Sep 5 2009, 10:07 PM']Help! All my basslines are starting to sound too similar! How can I break out of the arpeggiated fill style and become more creative?[/quote] Inversions or Modes of any help? I'm getting to a similar place and inversions seem to be a way out at the moment. Fun isn't it, and sooo much better than free time that's overrated imo

Bloody brilliant, looking forward to the phots

That would be marvellous

I'm a bass fan and don't really want to get into a pointless 4 vs more argument. I am aware that as my bass playing improves my ability to pick up and play a 5 has too which is a nice bonus

Whereabouts r u Lozbass? I have an ACG pre or 2 you could try and I'd love to see that Alembic. Peter - in not so sunny Kendal

Solvol Autosol is good but take care not to overdo it as it can remove the chrome over time. A milder alternaltive is toothpaste, and it smells better. Can't hurt to give it a try. Cheap toothpaste (an abrasive) is best. Peter

Been a closet Alembic fan for many years and that is quite something. Much nicer than the Fodera imo

[quote name='lozbass' post='590064' date='Sep 4 2009, 07:38 PM']I'd put it back in its case for a month, then take it out and see what you think when you've had a bit of distance. I've chopped and changed a lot and then ended up back where I started. I've also had a break from basses the tone of which I wasn't too pleased with, then been blown away a few months later. Just an idea, but maybe save the money for now and see how you feel after a short hiatus. If however, you're not happy if you're not spending money (I'm a big offender), then go ahead - you shouldn't really go too far wrong with Nordys and, personally, I'd risk the solder breaks[/quote] That's probably very good advice. The Nordy I put in my Sterling was immense!

If you chipped your nuts on your Status perhaps you're holding it all wrong?