Alembic
ActiveOverview
Alembic Inc. manufactures high-end electric basses, guitars, and preamps, known for pioneering active electronics and neck-through-body construction.21 The brand focuses on custom instruments using exotic tonewoods like zebrawood and cocobolo, with low production volumes of around 100 units per month, positioning it in the boutique, collectible market.31
History
Alembic was founded in 1969 in San Francisco by Ron Wickersham and Susan Wickersham as a sound consulting firm for bands including the Grateful Dead.34 It transitioned to instrument manufacturing, introducing Series I and II models with PF-5 active electronics by 1971.34 The company moved to Santa Rosa and continues to release new models periodically while maintaining its flagship lines.34
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Series I (flagship bass/guitar) | pinnacle of active electronics and tonewoods | $10,000 - $20,000 |
| Series II (enhanced standard) | refined neck-through design | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Spectrum (distinctive bass/guitar) | versatile cocobolo construction | $16,000 - $18,000 |
| Skylark (lightweight guitar) | zebrawood tone with sustain | $15,000 - $17,500 |
| Orion (modern bass) | expanded model line | $10,000 - $16,000 |
| Epic (high-end guitar) | innovative design principles | $12,000 - $18,000 |
Manufacturing
Instruments are handmade in Santa Rosa, California, with low production of fewer than 100 per month.3 All models feature neck-through construction and are built in-house using exotic woods.13
Notable Products
- Series I - Flagship model with brass hardware and advanced tone-shaping electronics.
- Spectrum - Bass/guitar with distinctive body shape and cocobolo tonewood.
- Skylark - Lightweight guitar using zebrawood for tone and aesthetics.
- Orion - Modern bass in expanded lineup with active electronics.
- Epic - High-end guitar applying classic Alembic innovations.
Reputation
Alembic instruments are respected by professionals and enthusiasts for innovative active electronics, superior sustain from neck-through designs, and use of premium tonewoods.13 Criticisms center on high prices comparable to custom-shop competitors and limited accessibility due to low production.37 Vintage models are highly collectible among musicians.1
Sources (8)
- https://www.ruthlessreviews.com/documentaries/the-art-and-science-behind-alembics-guitar-designs/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alembic_Inc.
- https://guitargavel.substack.com/p/alembic-guitars-and-basses
- https://www.alembicguitars.com/history.html
- https://bluebookofguitarvalues.com/electric-guitars/manufacturers/ALEMBIC
- https://fatbottomguitars.co.uk/blogs/news/the-sonic-alchemists-a-brief-history-of-alembic-guitars-and-basses
- https://markweinguitarlessons.com/forums/threads/an-interesting-article-about-alembic-guitars-and-basses.62922/
- https://equipboard.com/brands/alembic