A new (to me) Epic.  I've been wanting one of these for over 20 years, and the stars finally aligned.  
 
It's a special edition #32 or 60.  I find the electronics to be touchy, but not in a bad way.  I am used to pounding on my '72 Jazz, so this is like going from a Mustang to a Ferrari.
 
Love it.

Beautiful flame in that Maple~
 
Your initial response to the sensitivity of the electronics is a common one- I know I was shocked at how sloppy I sounded when my Rogue first showed up.  The good thing is that playing on them makes you refine your technique and you'll find that you become a better player because of it.
 
Enjoy!

Ditto on all you guys said.  My Epics made me clean up some sloppy habits and they sound great.
Congrats Wm. and welcome to the board.
Rich

Nice picture of a nice bass!
 
The upgrades on special edition Epics are that the truss rod cover and backplate are brass, oval inlays have been added, and there is a double pinstripe under the top.  Your picture shows how the double pinstripe nicely sets off the top.

Welcome, W. Michael.
 
I have an Epic that looks just like yours, 98W11828. Number 24 of 60, a Guitar Center special edition. It is my first Alembic...
 
I love it! It gets used as much as my other dozen basses combined!
 
Ben

Gentleman,
 
Thanks all for the warm welcome.  I took the bass out to jam this weekend and absolutely became hooked.  I see many years ahead of me and this one.