Good brand recommendations.

I need a new bass. I'm tired of my cheap $100 dollar Ibanez Gio. I get really discouraged easy because all I hear is people talk about "entry level" bass guitars. I'm broke as hell. No joke. But, when I save up my money, I want it to go to something nice, you know what I mean?

Anyways, I just wanted to hear people's suggestions and do some research, since that's all I can do right now. I want something strong with a deep growl to it yet alot of clarity. I really like Bartolini pick ups and I've heard good things about EMGs... as far as the actual bass guitar goes, I've always used Ibanez, I like the feel and shape of Ibanez guitars.

Anyways, suggetions would be great.

I've been playing bass for only a few years so I'm still really new and green to some things.