GAP (Gear Aquisition Planning)

[ZenBasses]

I'd definitely be giving Jon Shuker a ring.

But for that money I'd also consider an Overwater.. There is quite a lot of movement on them recently in the sales area.. And they are great basses.

[machinehead]

[quote name='Ticktock' timestamp='1374348525' post='2147990']
Frank, Bassdirect is not at all "just down the road". Unfortunately.
Shopping choice here not so great for my projected budget. Though ok for about half that.
Dawson's have a branch or two here and I'll probably head there in a couple weeks when the schools are back, get the shop all to myself etc.
Uncle Psychosis- indeed, comments here and a couple days reflection lead me to consider much testing of likes and dislikes and maybe make a purchase if I play something and don't want to put it down. Time will tell.
Ordering a custom and not being happy down the line with it doesn't bear thinking about.
[/quote]

You probably know this already but finding a shop that stalks decent bass guitars around N Ireland offers very slim pickings.

Bairds have a few, as do Dawsons. Matchetts usually have a few more expensive ones like Musicman and Warwick and US Fenders but you'll have to try all the shops to get any range at all.

Happy hunting.

Frank.