Is it worth upgrading a Carlo Robelli?

[Townsider]

So I have a Carlo Robelli 5 string (I know, I know) and the electronic section is breaking down. Loose pots, busted pickup connections, terrible tone. While I chalk this up to being a Robelli, I'm feeling a catch 22 of replacing the parts and updating the hardware,(a potential $300+ solution) or buying a new rig for myself, and keeping or donating the robelli to a student. I know I won't get near what I need if I sell it, especially in it's current state. I do like the body and neck of the robelli, but really want to overhaul if I keep it. I play every week and out at least once a month and Carlo just ain't cutting it anymore. Oy! Just venting, but advice is always appreciated.

 

[TNCreature]

Donate. Buy a new $300 used bass.

 

[Townsider]

I feel like I already know the answer, but also love to consult the oracles.

 

[Slater]

It may be worth repairing, just to keep it functional, but probably not worth upgrading.

 

[Townsider]

Well Im not the biggest fan of the tone on the CR currently. So I was thinking that $300 spent on an electronics/ hardware upgrade could get me better tone than a $300 bass after seeing what's in that price range online.

 

[Matt Liebenau]

If you like it $300 or more then mod it. If not, get something else. If you do mod it, just remember, a $150 bass with $300 worth of mods is.... a $150 bass so try to keep things reversible or be sure you're not worried about resale.

 

[SBassman]

Is there something otherwise special about the bass? A design that you don't see elsewhere? Hollowbody? Super light? Great feeling neck? Something unique? Or is it just another P or J clone. If there is something special, I think it would be worth upgrading. If not, I think it would be best to sell it or give it away and start fresh.

 

[J. Wes]

If you like the way it looks and feels to play, with some mods and work, you can make it sound however you want. Don’t let the name on the headstock scare you off! If resale value is the name of your game, then don’t bother.

 

[Townsider]

Oh I found a solution. I ended up ordering a 2016 Sire V7 Alder/Rosewood for myself. And I'll use the Robelli to learn how to work on my own rig, mostly because I know it won't sell for much, especially in it's current state so I'll just frankenbass it over time. I really had no plans to sell it anyway. I just play often enough I didn't want to wait to fix it or risk messing something up.
Win/Win. I am so stoked S7 should be here next week! Weehoo!