Steve Ratchen has always been unconventional. As the bassist/keyboardist and principle songwriter for the band Alchemy X, Ratchen has been creating music a little left of center for over two decades. Both the critically acclaimed “A Delicate Balance” (1999) and “11:59:59 (2003) prominently feature Ratchen’s unorthodox writing and playing. Compared to the likes of Geddy Lee, Jon Myung and Chris Squire, he’s never been content just “laying foundation”. His melodic riffing, chording and counterpoint have often been called “lead bass” by reviewers. A left-handed player who uses right-handed guitars and basses, Steve chose Conklin a decade ago and hasn’t looked elsewhere since.

     “I’ve said it many times before, but it bears repeating: The Conklin GT-7 is simply the finest instrument I’ve ever had the pleasure of owning. Playing a right-handed instrument upside-down presents many logistical difficulties, and in the past the consistent pressure of my arm has caused all kinds of problems with the active electronics of other basses.

     I’ve had my current GT-7 for 10 years, recorded 2 Alchemy X albums (with #3 being finished as I write this) and another for the band Vyndykator and have NEVER had an issue with intonation, warping or electronics. The Bartolini pick-ups and locking jack are the best I’ve encountered, and really allow me to concentrate on playing rather than worrying about mechanical issues. Bill Conklin is one of the most personable guys you could meet, and more to the point, a terrific luthier. You only have to hold a Conklin bass or guitar to understand the tremendous care put into its craftsmanship. While it’s always fun to try out other basses like the proverbial kid in a candy store, when it comes to recording or playing live, I’m completely sold on the Groove Tools series.”