BassBod

I agree the Thomastiks are great sounding strings - the only ones I've found without a nasty "edge" to the sound. But (and its a BIG but) they are a pain to use at first - the gauges are unusually light (think Mark King..) and on top of that they are very flexible, so you will probably have to change bridge and nut (and probably truss rod) settings to make them playable. Also, acoustically they are soft - the lack of "clank" does make it a warmer sound but at the expense of acoustic impact - not an issue on a Turner bass but a consideration if you're planning to play unplugged. BB

The ebony board is a good sign - I think a set of strings (to your taste) and a bit of a set up should get you on track. Maybe get a pickup fitted at the same time? Remember that ply basses were also designed to be more durable, not just cheaper to make. Have fun BB

I've got a an old Czech ply - it really depends on what's wrong with it, and how much you're prepared to invest. Broken bits (endpin, nut, tuners?) aren't too pricey, and fixes can be included in a pro set up. New pro-fitted bridge is a good idea, again not expensive and you can also include a pickup installation. I'd look at this type of work as giving the bass a fair chance to sound its best. A few changes can really make a big difference. Where I would stop is major structural work (taking the top off, neck off..) or replacing the fingerboard. The bass was constructed to a certain level, so you have to always bear that in mind. On mine I've fitted a new adjustable bridge, changed a dodgy endpin and stripped the peeling fingerboard finish. It sounds ok (with Innovation strings) for old school thumpy stuff. But it's never going to give the complex woody tones that a "better" solid top bass could. That would cost me a lot more - and I play EUB most of the time, so its never going to make sense to invest that much in an acoustic bass.

One other thing - sounds obvious, if you get the bass set up think about putting adjuster wheels into the bridge. This enables you to change string height (ie start low then move it up by small amounts over a few months, then back down if it's too high for comfort). The real purists will say they mess up the sound, but when you're getting started it can be a big help. Enjoy... BB

Now that's a bit of a subject - do a search here (?) and on Talkbass, then look at Bob Gollihur's site - his summaries and prices are the best I've seen. Any idea what's on your bass? Also, what sort of sound are you looking for? Favourite players? Double bass strings vary more in construction, sound and feel than bass guitar strings, and of course cost more so you'll want to think about this one... I'd suggest Thomastick Spirocores or D'Addario "hybrids" as a good start, unless you're really wanting to use a bow lots. BB

Now that looks very nice - so what's deal...sound feel...what p/ups....(I could go on) BB

But you wouldn't fancy shipping one to Australia....... BB

I've used the Picato's - didn't think they were that bad. Just a very traditional flat. In fact, I really like the roundwound nickel sets...esp for the ££. BB

Most basses are 3/4 size - a full size (4/4) has a huge body, (think wardrobe). They are harder to move around, more likely to feedback....but do tend to have a big acoustic voice. I've only ever seen/played two or three. BB