When it comes to bass guitars, there are few instruments that can match the unique sound and innovative design of the Alembic bass. From its humble beginnings in the early 1970s to its status as one of the most sought-after basses in the world today, the Alembic has carved out a special place in the hearts of musicians and collectors alike.
The story of the Alembic bass begins in the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1960s. It was a time of great social upheaval, with a vibrant counterculture that embraced new ideas and experimentation. In this fertile environment, a group of musicians and audio engineers began to experiment with new ways of amplifying and recording music, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in terms of sound quality and clarity.
Among these innovators were Ron and Susan Wickersham, who had founded Alembic Inc. in 1969 as a custom audio electronics company. They quickly gained a reputation for creating high-quality audio equipment for musicians, including guitar pickups and preamps that were far ahead of their time.
It was not long before the Wickershams turned their attention to building a better bass guitar. Working closely with jazz bassist Jack Casady of Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, they began to experiment with new materials and designs that would allow for greater sustain and tonal clarity. They developed a unique construction technique that involved laminating multiple layers of exotic woods, such as maple and purpleheart, to create a thin, lightweight body with a dense, rich tone.
The first Alembic bass was completed in 1972, and it was an instant sensation. With its sleek, futuristic design and unparalleled sound quality, the Alembic quickly gained a following among musicians who were looking for something new and different. The company soon expanded its lineup to include a range of basses and guitars, each one handmade and customized to the specific needs of the player.
Over the years, Alembic basses have been played by some of the most iconic bassists in the world, including Stanley Clarke, Phil Lesh of the Grateful Dead, and John Entwistle of The Who. These musicians were drawn to the Alembic’s unique tone and versatility, which allowed them to create a wide range of sounds and textures that were simply not possible with other instruments.
One of the key factors in the success of the Alembic bass has been the company’s commitment to innovation and experimentation. Over the years, the Wickershams and their team of skilled craftsmen have continued to push the boundaries of what is possible in terms of bass guitar design and construction. They have incorporated new materials, such as graphite and carbon fiber, into their designs, and have developed new pickup configurations and electronics that allow for even greater tonal flexibility.
Despite the fact that the Alembic bass is a relatively niche instrument, it has maintained a devoted following among bass players and collectors for over four decades. Its unique sound and innovative design continue to inspire musicians to this day, and its place in the pantheon of great bass guitars is secure.
The story of the Alembic bass is a testament to the power of innovation and experimentation in the world of music. From its humble beginnings as a custom electronics company to its status as one of the most respected and coveted basses in the world, the Alembic has truly carved out a special place in the hearts of musicians and collectors alike. If you have not yet had the chance to experience the unique sound and feel of an Alembic bass, I highly recommend that you do so – you will not be disappointed.