just an update, i took the bass back to the shop today and the fella was spot on... offered me a repair or my money back, since i had lost faith in the bass i decided to take the money, but then i saw a G&L Tribute sb-2 hanging at the other side of the store... was £449 reduced to £349, then cos i had the inconveinience of having to bring the other bass back to the shop the guy knocked another £20 off.... im very happy with it, and i gotta reccomend it to anyone wanting a fender p style bass...... its just awesome, it has the best neck ive ever played and the finish is second to none, it really is breathtaking, on the strength of this bass from what ive seen of it so far i can deffo say im finished with fender basses, its leagues ahead in quality and sound to any fender i have ever owned, and ive had a few of all types....