Before you complain about your bass: try a basic setup from G&L

[Chef]

Mods can we sticky this maybe?
Seems like I hear lots of new bass owners gripe about how their new axe doesn't play/sound as well as they'd hope for. This goes for everyone, not just G&L...but, G&L are kind enough to keep thier basic factory setup procedure right there in their FAQ, and it's right here for you viewing and printing pleasure;
http://www.glguitars.com/faq/GLmanual.pdf

The basics apply to all brands, and geetars too...enjoy;

alan

[cb56]

I couldn't agree more. G&L puts all the specs on their website and in their owner's manuals. IMO G&L's are the easiest instruments to set up. Every part on them is user friendly. If a hack like me can do a consistant setup on a G&L, anybody can. It's well worth the effort to buy the tools and gain the knowledge and experience. Last time I had a music store do a set up (decades ago) it cost me $25. I'm sure it's more now.
Tools I use are: a set of allen wrenches, a set of small screwdrivers. A capo, for holding down strings at 1st fret. automotive sparkplug gapper for measuring relief. Precision ruler. Mine goes to 1/32 of an inch but you can find them that go to 1/64 if you're that picky.

[DavePlaysBass]

I use the Fender Gearhead specs stickied in the Setup area on all my basses. Has done the G&Ls well.

Dave