Great post! (Almost) saved me the bother of replying...😄
Just one more brand to chuck into the mix - G&L! For your budget you could probably get a used USA model, but to be honest I'm not sure it's necessary. The Tribute series M2500 and L2500 are fantastic basses, not just "for the money" but at any price point. With a budget of around a grand you might also be lucky enough to find a used ACG - beautiful handmade British (Scottish to be exact) instruments with mouth-watering spec levels.
Neil bought my ACG. He paid extremely quickly (indeed, a week before he got the bass!) and was a pleasure to deal with at every stage.
He's a lovely fella and it was good to meet him (at a service station on the M6!).
Enjoy the bass and take care 😎
I like the look of this, but I'm a bit clueless when it comes to the various incarnations of Stingrays... 🤔
Does this model sound like a "real" 'Ray? Does it have the characteristic chunky neck? 💜
It seems to offer phenomenal value for money, but is there a catch?
After a bit more research, it would seem that this bridge is slightly adjustable. This version is set at 18+/-1.5mm. However, the same model is available with 19mm (or even 21mm!) spacing. I guess it would be a straight swap. If you picked one up second hand and sold the existing bridge, it would only cost a few quid...
https://hipshotproducts.com/products/5-string-a-style-bass-bridge?variant=31567451400
You're welcome 😎😆
Simon sold me a set of Wizard Hammers. Very easy Comms and a very smooth deal. They arrived quickly, well packaged, and addressed with some of the nicest handwriting you will ever see! 😎
It's set at 18mm, but the bridge is adjustable so could allow it to go slightly wider. I wouldn't though, because it feels perfect for me as it is, and I prefer a wide spacing. It feels very like my four string Fenders, and I have sausage fingers! 😆