You need to consult with a good luthier. There are other things beside re-shaping the instrument -- or even shortening the neck -- which can be more affordable and more reversible.
You say you like the sound of your bass but have trouble getting around because of "the shoulders." Maybe increasing the overstand (i.e. the height of the fingerboard off the body, and related angles) would let you keep all of the sound and all of the value of your instrument but make thumb position playing easier.
If there was ever a time to think that stuff through it's while you have your neck loose!
Anyway, check hard before hauling out the Saws-All.
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