So, I finally went into one of the local shops who have all kinds of less common equipment, and I got the chance to try a G&L L-2000 bass, and a bunch of amps. The G&L had a nice feel, but I didn't care for the controls at all.
First up was the Genz-Benz Shuttle 3.0 with the 8-inch speaker. I couldn't believe how small and lightweight this combo was, and how good it sounded, but it just didn't have that much *oomph*.
Next up was a Shuttle 6.0 with a 12-inch speaker. This had plenty of power for my needs, and I appreciated the improved low end from the larger driver. I didn't find much need to twiddle knobs, but he EQ was quite useful. I did come to the conclusion that there is something in the tone of neodymium drivers that just doesn't sit right with me. Kind of hard to peg, but it's a consistent experience with a number of different vendors.
Then I spied in the corner a Glockenklang Soul head and two Space Deluxe 1x12" cabs.
OMFG!!!!! 
This is the tone and the headroom I've always dreamed of! Wait! No! This exceeded what I thought possible in a rig!
Now, I made the mistake of looking at the price tag for this
used equipment: $1200 for the head, $500 for each cab.
There's just no way I can justify shucking out that kind of cash, but now I feel cursed in having found that sound! What do you do in such as situation?
