[quote name='Lozz196' timestamp='1464643594' post='3061141']
No, being in a band is the most important bit for me, or rather being in a gigging band is, but I still love playing bass. If I weren`t in a band I`d still learn new songs, play along to my faves on youtube etc.
[/quote]
This.
Get your GP to refer you to a spinal specialist unit, not your local neuro/ortho guys. Yes, the ops can be scary, but the quicker you act, the greater the chances of a good outcome.
Spinal Unit at Frenchay, Bristol, was my life saver.
[quote name='AndyTravis' timestamp='1463782058' post='3054110']
I use Hercules and Ultimate stands. Both nitro safe. And I used to sell Gibson's for a living and we used Hercules hangers for them in the shop.
[/quote]
+1, used in a guitar shop!
"I end up over hitting the strings to get the fattest sound I can" - except that's not the way to do it, IME. Turn up the amp, play softer with less dynamic range. All the fatness you could ever want.
In my admittedly small experience with Jaguar bridges, raise the whole bridge would be better. And replacing it and locking off the trem would be even better.