that pedal and circle k's would put him closer than that.
circle k strings are the brightest sounding strings i've used, and
i used to use fat beams on all my basses.
I've never wanted to pay for Circle K's and my local shop has always sponsored us w huge string/stick/head discounts, so I have to ask you this. Have you ever played the ProSteels? If ck strings are brighter than that I may have to pony up the cash.
And as much as a b3k would help him, I'd personally rather see him push a tube amp wih a rat pedal. He'll learn more about bass & gear that way.