When discussions come around to the older model Series basses, frequently it will be said that a particular instrument has or has not had the electronics upgrade. What year models of instruments are we talking about that NEED to have the electronics upgraded? About how much is the upgrade? Thanks guys!

You need the upgrade if you're picking up a lot of mobile phone signals, and/or static. This can be worse in some places rather than others, so if you travel around a lot it might be a good precaution.

Adriaan..Thanks. Perhaps you can 'amplify' the answer for me as well. Your response serves me well if I already have a Series bass and detect this phenomenon. I am looking for a Series and am trying to avoid a complication that could be evaded up front, So, Are all Series basses subject to this condition, without regard to year model? Or are there  certain (or approximate) year models that's are prone to this. For example, Series basses made after 1985 are not as apt to pick up the ancillary noise. Or, is it any given bass on any given day (or night) in any possible combination of scenarios? Perhaps no easy answer. Also, does the electronics upgrade make the basses sound differently than they did as originals out of the factory? Where I'm headed with this is a question I am working to answer: Do I pursue getting an older model Series, 1985 or older or look toward a newer model (in order to avoid the unwanted noise)? Thanks for the response....

Hi there! Have you seen this one? Posted by Mica  http://club.alembicguitars.net/Images/16271/16310.html?1107541987
Might be helpfull...
 
Cheers!
F.C.
 
(Message edited by fc_spoiler on July 02, 2006)

for instance my 1972 Bass (old#12) does'nt have any  noise problems it's Very quiet still to this Day.

I've had 2 1977 Series 1 basses.
One needed (& received) the upgrade; the other ( which is my current Series)is quiet as anything with no upgrade.

There is a dated (i.e. the prices would no longer be valid) thread that might be of some help here.

Thanks fellows. That's exactly the information I was looking for. You know, the journey is a big part of the fun so my 'fact finding'  on the Series models really has me thinking...Hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Keavin - My 1972 Alembic is perfectly quiet too!    I wish my '81 Series II was as quiet.

Hey dela217,if your 81 seriesII is making noise, give it a shot whisky Man!

Hips ...hips ...yodelihow ...gif dem twoooo ...hops!
I'd be quiet!
 
PTBO

Sounds like the party started early! Have a happy and Safe Fourth of July everyone!