So, you had a '63 Jazz, then changed the body and the fingerboard in '78? Isn't that a bit like that bit in Only Fools and Horses with Triggers broom?
Anyway, personally when it comes to 'tone', I prefer to let the bass do the talking. Yes, I have a particulat playing style and there are certain runs and certain note patterns I like to use, but tone-wise, I let the bass osrt it out for me. The Fender's very bass heavy and is good for chugging rock and when I mute it, it's fairly decent at a classice motown-y sound. The Washburn though is active and is remarkably articulate with many tonal possibilities. If i'm slap happy, I'll cut the bass and boost the middle. If I'm playing along to Rush, I'll cut the bass altogether! If I'm playing along to Korn, I'll max the bass and treble and cut the middle.
It all depends on what you feel at the time. I couldnt bear if I played using the same sound for the rest of my life!
Truckstop