hi guys,
Here is a pic of my 1981 alembic bass serie II, wood work is incredible and I don't know if you can see, but there is red leds on the edge of the neck, of course it's an active bass and it goes with the little blue box at the bottom of the pix, you can also set it in stereo mode (1 PU per side) that's why at alembic forum they appreciate B500b, because this amp is stereo. I use it this way, stereo out : neck PU to first MB1, bridge PU to second MB1. MB1a to left in amp, MB1b to right right in amp. amp out A to 1x15 cab ada bassline, amp out B to 2x10 cab ada bassline.
It is a very specific way to set up gear. I would NOT recommend that to someone who's looking for a good standard bass tone : onboard preamp looks like a 747 dashboard (get lost sometime)
If I can recommend a "Bob's your uncle bass" for you Richard, it would be ;
-normal scale (easy to find strings)
-passive("F@@€€K ! I forgot to replace battery, and it was dead last time !")
-Good classic bass (precision/Jazz Bass... ) because easy to find replacing part (PU, fretless neck if you want to try...) In a lot of diferents brands Seymour Duncan, Bartolini, EMG, Di marzio.............................................etc
And it's just easy to set up in active
Jazz Bass has real thin neck, while precision's is thicker
If you're afraid with string tension, you take lighter strings ; easier to play and when you got Lou Ferrigno's hand, get bigger !
Check squire, as you're happy with your strat, you won't regret a squire Jazz Bass