i am beginning to look for another alembic an i have been seeing older series I basses going for around 3-4K and i am wondering if it is better to get a used bass w/ anniversary or signature electronics OR pick up one of the older series basses.  the main thing i don't know is the noise issue-i know there is an upgrade that fixes RF issues with older basses-but i couldn't swing that. is it really a big issue in your experience?  is it worse than playing  say a jazz bass with single coils?  or would i be better off getting a SC or MK bass with similar filter setups?  i love the idea of separate filters for each pickup.  i have never played either type of bass because i live in the middle of a cornfield!

If you could find a old series bass go for it the electronics up-grade would'nt hurt.....my bass is 1972 (35yrs old) and there's no noise issue with it (yet) BUT anything vintage/series is more than worth it!.....there was recently a 1972 alembic guitar on ebay going for $37,000. I dont know if it sold or not though.

I have a signature equipped Rogue- unbelievably sweet.  I've never played a Series bass and an older Series bass is at the top of my wish list, but if you can find a good deal on a signature or anniversary bass you won't be disappointed.

From what I understand, whether or not you need the electronics upgrade has a lot to do with where you live.  I believe it costs about $1500.  That said, my '76 Series I guitar hasn't had the upgrade.  I live in a dense, modern urban area (S.F. Bay Area) and I've had no problems yet with RF interference.  I suspect the problem may also be instrument specific too.  Some need it, some don't.
 
Bill, tgo

And it depends on the venue.  I get some buzz at one of the clubs we regularly play at when I'm standing near the amp.

Dave:
 
In the immortal words of the classic vaudeville skit:
 
THEN DON'T DO THAT!   hehehehe
 
Bill, tgo

LOL!

thanks for the input guys!  i am still looking.  are  there any shops in L.A. that may have an alembic?

Get a Series. Mine's an 80, and the PF6 electronics are very quiet. Make sure you get a good one, and you'll be fine.
I also have a Clarke deluxe so I have a reference between the two.