Starters Alternators was recorded by Steve Albini at Electrical Audio in Chicago between 14 and 20 June 1998 and was The Ex's first release on Touch and Go. Katrin on drums and vocals, Terrie and Andy on guitars, Luc on bass and G.W. Sok on vocals: eleven songs of choppy, interlocking guitars and stark drum patterns, from Frenzy and Let's Panic Later to the Hungarian Nem Úgy Van Most. Issued only on CD in 1998, it is now on vinyl for the first time.

Reviews at the time: "The Ex frame provocative, passionately declaimed lyrics with lacerating, choppy guitar riffs and stark drum patterns. Albini's recording captures the latter with raw, unfiltered clarity. This is The Ex's most unified and coherent record in years, and an excellent introduction to their singular and uncompromising sound." "This is a wonderful record for adventurous listeners. Let The Ex jump start your weary ears."

LP, first vinyl edition, with an 8-page full-colour booklet. Cover photos by John Corbett.