Skybone

If it's a variety of sounds, like clean / driven / downright dirty, then something like a Sansamp BDDI Deluxe or VT Deluxe would be ideal. If you need other effects from there, you can add them when you want. On the other hand, if you need core sounds and effects right off, then a multi FX may well be a better option. The Zoom B3n is a relatively inexpensive and easy to programme / play with option if you only use a few effects. However, if you want to add more effects / use amp & cab sims etc. then something like the Line6 POD Go or HX Stomp might be worth a look. On saying that, I've been using a Line6 POD HD500x for the last few years, which you can pick up second hand for about £200-250. You do have to register & buy the add on the HD Bass pack (about £20), but it does sound great IMO. Has all the effects & connectivity that you might need, and still costs less than the Helix variants.

Why would anyone want to fake an Encore? They were never that great instruments in the first place...

That and what @Woodinblack said about "music being valueless". It also seems that genres are more rigidly defined, bands have to "fit into a category", rather than just doing their own thing. Thanks to Myspace & Facebook for distilling what already seemed to be happening in music.

Rags and Bones - Thea Gilmore

You also need to factor in the decimation of Venues that put on Live Music. 20 years or so ago, there were far more venues operating than there are now, and a lot of them actively put on and promoted new & upcoming bands, playing original music. It seems that fewer venues are willing to take the risk of putting on bands, and those that do, want bands that'll play known music (popular covers) in order to get the punters through the door.

Always loved the look of them, never actually seen one "in the flesh".

Never Again - Discharge

Mama Weer All Crazee Now - Slade

Pearl's a Singer - Elkie Brooks

No One Knows - Queens of the Stone Age

Lord of Light - Hawkwind

Killing Yourself to Live - Black Sabbath

Surely, if it's a brand new instrument purchased from a reputable seller, you have the right to return defective products for either a replacement instrument or your money back. It is your legal right to do so after all.

So long as you pair it with a bass cab of the correct impedance, then I can't see a problem. Used to have a 1224mkII, superb sounding amps.

Jack of Shadows - Hawkwind

Back to Life - Soul II Soul

I installed a set of the Gemini Pickups WaveRider's in the walnut Faker (see avatar). Sound great to my ears, and seriously considering putting a set in my 4003.

Pearls Before Swine - Deviated Instinct

Too busy larking about

Justified and Ancient - KLF (link - JAMM - Justified Ancients of MuMu) Or Doctorin' the Tardis - JAMS aka The Timelords

Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys

Diamonds are Forever - Shirley Bassey

Pop Music - M