I have an old weird 5 string that I think would sound a lot better with Alembic pickups than the current EMGs. I just got a proper bridge on it and a good setup, so it's playing well, it just doesn't feel like the sound it's creating is fully making it out of the output jack.


Here's a shot from the early 90s. I'm playing my David King 5, accompanied by a friend on the bass in question.

Here are some on the Reverb Site:https://reverb.com/item/4649278-alembic-jz-bt-activator-pickups-preamp
I haven't seen anything more used than these for a long time but they do come up on ebay occasionally.

However at that price new ones from the Alembic store would be a better option if your budget wants to stretch that far: http://alembic.stores.yahoo.net/jzbtacpic.html

Quote from: jazzyvee on July 11, 2017, 03:08:02 AM
Here are some on the Reverb Site:https://reverb.com/item/4649278-alembic-jz-bt-activator-pickups-preamp
I haven't seen anything more used than these for a long time but they do come up on ebay occasionally.

However at that price new ones from the Alembic store would be a better option if your budget wants to stretch that far: http://alembic.stores.yahoo.net/jzbtacpic.html

Yeah, I saw those. Way above my budget. I'm dealing with some medical expenses these days, so new isn't an option and it's not something I need right away. Eventually, the right set will come along....

Sorry to hear about your gig woes....

Edwin, hope there is nothing serious going on requiring medical attention.

A lot of the used Alembic instruments and electronics offered on Reverb or ebay seem to be listed at a "best case scenario for the seller" price and just sit there. If I come across any pickups I will let you know. Probably going to be a bit more difficult to find used Alembic pickups for a five-string but over time something should turn up.

The newer EMGX pickups are supposed to be really nice, may be worth giving them a listen if you get the opportunity. I like the custom EMG pickups that came in my G Gould bass, they have a certain voice and punch in the mids that my Alembic pickups don't have. Good rock pickups that cut through well and still maintain lots of low end but I still prefer Alembic electronics which I find to be warmer. Good luck with the search.

Here's a set on Reverb

https://reverb.com/item/6044804-alembic-jazz-bass-20-years-old

Thanks! I'll keep an eye on those.