http://cgi.ebay.com/Alembic-Epic-5-string-bass_W0QQitemZ7349076291QQcategoryZ4713QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Oh man!  I just bought an Alembic Spoiler 4 string and now I really want a 5 string too (Is buying Alembic's addictive?)...  This guy only ships in the USA.  There's another one in the UK.  http://cgi.benl.ebay.be/Alembic-Epic-Bass-Guitar_W0QQitemZ7349118403QQcategoryZ4713QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohosting
The price is higher but still ok, no?
How does the sound of an Epic compare to a Spoiler?  Is it something completely different?  I really like the clear, bright but punchy sound of the Spoiler and I'm looking for the same thing in a 5-string.
 
(Message edited by GuineaPig on September 08, 2005)

Tom.  
I can't answer the comparison question although with the Spoiler being neck through it will sustain alot. However, what I can say is if you're after a clear, punchy sound you can't go wrong with the Epic. I think most of the other Epic owners on here will agree that it's a superb bass for just about any application but being set-neck, the mids and highs are really accentuated (not to the detriment of the lows I hasten to add). I've found that I can get a really full slap sound and a nice aggressive throaty growl, just by changing my fingering technique. I've had mine since 1996 and I still love it. I'm currently using DR fat beams 'marcus Miller' signature 45 - 125 strings. Again, these really help the bass sing out. Hope this is helpful.
 
Graeme

In addition to what Graeme said about the difference between set necks and though necks, the other major difference between an Epic and a Spoiler is the electronics.  The Spoiler is Volume, Pickup Selector, Filter, Q.  The Epic is Volume, Pan, Bass, Treble.

Thank you both for your answers.  I did some further research on the web and found some very good reviews on the Epic.  This bass could be what I'm looking for.  I asked the seller for some extra info.  I have doubts about the pricetag though...  Seems like a lot of people paid less for used Epic's.