I would like to point out that, as the OP, this is the correct answer.
As a side note OP are my first 2 initials and hence my family nickname, so every time I see OP I wonder how people know me.
I think the contrarian in me could actually live with body shape. I am going to that London on the 25th. I hope it is still there. I would love to try one.
And there is your answer. Any power amp which is compact enought to move around as you want will be doing the same as the power section in your MB. A Crest CA9 would be a whole different kettle of fish. But it would be a very different transport experience.
I recently put a dining table and chairs on FB Marketplace. I have had 2 people offering me couriers with cash. It is a £75 set up. I cannot imagine what they think they are going to get in the deal if it is a scam. One wanted them sent 4.5 hours away on a courier. I cannot understand why they are putting the time in on such a deeply unexciting sale.
Fair point. BUT, as you know, they are SO much better. I have been through 3 Bravewoods and put them all against my 66J. They scratched exactly the same itches. If I played 4 strings I would stop right there.
I also have no interest in sustain, but my 36" neckthrough Overwater has monster sustain. Not anything I am fussed about, but the immediacy it speaks with and consistency in that the bass does not eat any of the energy is quite exciting.
£70 towards the next one! Excellent.
Bartolini and Duncan make lovely stuff. Bartolini are voiced specifically. I am sure Mr CW could cover that if you asked him. Pickups are magnets and wire.
He has done several pickups for me. He is always open to tweaking stuff. Making pickups is not rocket science. Stuff from overseas is not inherently better.