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Bridge Upgrade Question

Here's the thing. You said you want to progressively make your bass "play better". If your current bridge is stable and functioning, a new bridge will not make it "play better". A new bridge will hold the strings in the exact position they are now. That's it.

Better to start looking at things like the nut: is it optimized? (Being Epiphone it likely could use a touch up). A perfect nut is a revelation to playability! The frets: are they due for service ? (level and dress by a GOOD, renowned luthier or a PLEK) Well done frets are a revelation to playability!

What many here are saying is that throwing money at the bridge won't get results like nut and frets will. IMO, it would be the last thing on the list for playability as long as it isn't slopping around.

If it is sloppy, that's another matter.
 
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96tbird, thank you for your honest and unbiased insight. When you put it that way, it makes sense. Perhaps I will look into a new nut. The frets are seemingly in good shape and don't seem to manufacture any buzzing or effect playability for me. I think the nut is what I'll shift my focus to. Thanks again!
 
The nut may only need to be filed. Import basses are notorious for mediocre nut setup. I think that Toby has a graphite/nylon nut. They are fine. Bone or brass are the premium if you replace it. Have a good tech look at it for you. He'll give you the rundown on choices.