picking a bass..

[Scott Pope]

Ken, with all due respect, I think it is futile for you, personally, to decide on one bass. You will feel neglected after awhile if you can't take one of your stock out for a joyride occasionally.

I think you derive as much enjoyment out of the study of the diversity of the instruments and working on them as actually playing them.

I say this out of respect, because I'm the same way with electric guitars an basses. Over the years, I not only found it difficult to settle on one "stage" instrument, but I have about as much fun tinkering with them, helping my friends and colleagues get the best tone for them from working on their setups and electronics, and experimentation in general. Even RIC let me post some wiring variations on their factory website that have proven quite popular!!!

Ken, if you were gunning for principal of even a regional symphony, I'd take their advise completely: pick one, get used to its good points, bad points, quirks and ideosyncracies and all, bury yourself in it, and come out the other end of the tunnel ready for any audition anywhere. But you're not. You're having too much fun with your toys. I appreciate that. I'd love to be there myself. I have been in other contexts. I enjoy your discussions and digressions as you post your impressions of various instruments, how they are set up and strung, what gigs you're using them on, etc.

Have fun with your toys!!! Happy Holidays!