Dan Dare

Have they got any more?

That will be a nice cab. I have five PJB 4x5 cabs and love them. How did you "chance upon" 8 or 10 PJB drive units? You will need to increase the cab size over the 6x5 if you intend to add two up-firing drivers.

You are unhappy that your political viewpoint is not represented by the Beeb and then complain about "F&$%@#g politics" ruining everything it touches. A fine irony. I haven't heard any "whining right-on left wing comedy" on the Beeb recently (I say "heard" because I haven't had a telly for 20+ years and only listen to the radio). It's all insufferably cosy, smug and politically middle of the road.

Best to ignore what people say and try stuff for yourself. We're all almost bound to recommend what we have/like and criticise what we don't have/like. The differences between good quality kit are quite small and certainly less than many make them out to be. I'd look for a used 4x10 (or two 2x10s) and an Ashdown (or similar) head if you want to play rock in pubs. For the money you have available, I wouldn't try to go lightweight for the setting you'll be using it in.

The neck is wooden, so the washer need not be metal before enough force can be applied to cause the wood to bend. It may be helpful for it to have some give so you don't do damage if you tighten the nut too enthusiastically.

In the minds of those who play it, yes. They exist on a higher plane of consciousness than the rest of us, you know.

Hofners have pretty narrow necks and tight string spacing. OK if you're a pick player, but I find them difficult to play, being so used to Fender style basses. The Danelectros suggested by Maude would probably better suit someone switching from a conventional instrument.

Is the original top loading or string through body? Assuming the former, you could, if you don't mind drilling an extra hole or two, replace the bridge with something different. As long as you ensure it sits parallel to where the original does and use one with the same string spacing or saddles that adjust laterally, it should work fine.

Have you tried any of them? Beware buying on the strength of reviews or other peoples' opinions.

It does have a slight amount. It shouldn't affect a poly finish, though. Much cheaper than naphtha/lighter fluid.

Those all aluminium necks are not pleasant to hold. They feel very cold. The Kramers, which had wood inserts let into the back of the necks, were much nicer to play. Still, in view of the bargain price...

White spirit? I find it removes the glue residue from stickers.

You could enquire of some of the luthiers suppliers (try Google).

Of course you are, old boy.

Jack's Instrument Services - Manchester guitar setup and repair workshop. Electric, Bass and Acoustic Guitars taken on for upgrades, modifications, set up or repair! - Tel: 07706828122. Very wide range of materials/styles and good work.

It's a pedal. Just got the promo' email.

I agree with Jakester. G&L Tributes are exceptionally good for the money. I'd say the comparison between them and US built models is similar to that between Mexican and US built Fenders.

It could well be the nature of the beast. 100w isn't a massive amount of power for bass, especially in a rock/metal band or similar. If you start experimenting with replacement valves, you may find the power supply can't keep up.

Very happy with my 4" padded Pinegrove. Not cheap, but high quality leather and beautifully made.

Ideally, for that sound, the humbucker should be nearer the neck rather than the bridge. I saw an interview with Billy Sheehan when he described adding the humbucker there to his famous old P bass. Pickups set closer to the bridge tend to emphasise the mid range growl.

Most cabs and most amps are compatible, in that they will work together (within reason, obvs). Whether you like the result is a different matter. You simply have to try things out in order to make an informed decision.

I'm with chris b. I'll happily browse shops and try new stuff out, but unless it's a noticeable improvement over what I have, I keep my money in my pocket.

I think we've pretty well dealt with him. Let's talk about something interesting.

The band itself were excellent. I saw them at a college gig many moons ago (they were supporting The Fall) and they were tight as a ducks 4rse. Couldn't stand the bloke whinging into the mic' at the front of the stage, but the musicians were impressive.

Ah, the old Stradivari technique of removing the finish with a blowlamp.