Skybone

Having flitted back and forth between inexpensive/expensive/inexpensive/expensive instruments for many years, I can honestly say that I'm enjoying playing my Ric more than I ever did playing anything else. Though saying that, I'm in total agreement that there is absolutely nothing wrong with inexpensive instruments these days, and many are happy to gig with them.

Borrowed one to record an album back in the 90's, great sounding amps & cabs.

I would say that if you are thinking of keeping the MB3 as your main preamp pedal, then why go for the HX Stomp? Surely it's a wee bit overkill, when you could just get the HX FX instead, and run it through the loop of the MB3.

Prison Sex - Tool

If you're at a loose end in Thurso on the 1st June, you could come and see our singer in multiple bands at Mr C's. Oh, and we're playing as well.

There were a couple of retailers of older basses who used to show pictures of a vernier gauge on the neck & 12th frets on older Rics, it might be worthwhile having a look for these resources (Andy Baxter Bass was a good one). Quite sad, but I did a bit of research about neck dimensions for 70's Ric's to compare with the RickenFaker's I had at that time, but unfortunately, I can't find it.

I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass - Nick Lowe

Highway to Hell - AC/DC obvs

Sommewhere Only We Know - Keane

I know that the LT would be complete and utter overkill for what I need, but I still want one! Though it's been overtaken by a desire for a Stomp XL. Overkill again, but... Enjoy!

Turning Japanese - The Vapors

Can't believe this guy hasn't featured yet:

3 Minute Hero - The Selector

I'd agree with @BigRedX Sounds like a bit of a steal TBH.

Night Prowler - AC/DC

Ditto. Never had an issue with any of the Schaller's I've fitted to instruments over the last 25 years.

I think my only advice would be to play them if you can, before parting with any money, and simply buy the one you like best. If the 4003 was built before 2006, it won't have the "Vintage" circuit, which removes a cap from the circuit which makes it sound like a 4001. Though TBH, I prefer the "modern" sound. It would be tempting to go for the '77 over the 4003, if the price is right, but it really is up to you trying them out.

Fever Dream - Happy Flowers

All I Want for Christmas is a Dukla Prague Away Kit - Half Man, Half Biscuit

I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters

Nice. Enjoy.

Master of Puppets - Metallica

Saw a good one the other night, Mark Knopfler & Brian Johnston interviewing Sam Fender.

Children of the Grave - Slack Babbath

This. I miss all of the intentionally bonkers entries, though the unintentionally bonkers ones make up for it.