A couple of points here:
A. Many audio setups (including your typical bass rig) have difficulties reproducing the lowest frequencies involved, in terms of both:
A. efficiency (Level)
B. Distortion (THD + IMD)
Well a 4 avoids having to deal with damping the B and concerns about how it stands up to the other strings. In some circumstances I'd suggest a 3 string bass. But I think Tony Levin beat me to it a few years ago 🤔
Safer in room than an unattended vehicle. Car big enough to keep them out of sight ? Take photograph of them in the room. If practicable lock them to something large eg desk / table.
The anti-static ground connection as used in electronic production environments usually has a high impedance resistor in line (eg 1 Meg Ohm) to avoid high currents but still negate charge build up.
Disclaimer: I am not responsible for the condition of these items 😆
Salvage: Bare Body & Neck from Westone Spectrum ST Bass.
Body is in a bit of a state - finish is cloudy / dents / looks like someone tried to remove the finish by heat then gave up.
Neck is better but still very rough - finish cloudy / marks / dents etc. Fretting is actually still good in terms of fret ends and fitting but frets well worn as you might expect.
VERY MUCH "SPARES OR REPAIR"
See Pics.
I'm thinking £25 each singly or both for £45. Collection from Brighton. Possible delivery in some of Sussex. Please ask if interested.
Could post but thinking cost would be out of proportion. Ask if interested.
Offers welcome if you think overpriced.
Yes. It happens mainly when the "plastic" pickguard has become "shiny" through friction from playing contact . Also noticed when touching / brushing (isolated) pickguard screws. The conductive tape / grounding method works. For a quick temporary fix try wiping pickguard with anti-static wipes rg Tumble Dryer sheets. For a permanent fix - non-pickguard instruments 🤣
The pickguard effect is a thing. Esp when material is worn / shiny. Or you may be charging up yourself ? Patent leather shoes ? Nyion Carpet ? Shiny floors ? etc ...