JDM, I agree that having a qualified luthier perform a basic "set up" on your new bass is probably what you should focus on first. If you're not clear on exactly what this should and should not include, let us know and we can probably help you.
For the really intreprid, the link below contains a whole set of threads on specific elements of set up and repair:
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=43376
Then, after your bass is all set up for its best acoustic tone and playability, you might want to consider replacing those pickup thingies.
Two kinds of pickups that don't cost too much and are pretty much "plug & play" that I can recommend are the K&K Bass Max and the Upton Revolution SOLO.
P.S. Bill Bruford eh? Pretty interesting.
For the really intreprid, the link below contains a whole set of threads on specific elements of set up and repair:
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=43376
Then, after your bass is all set up for its best acoustic tone and playability, you might want to consider replacing those pickup thingies.
Two kinds of pickups that don't cost too much and are pretty much "plug & play" that I can recommend are the K&K Bass Max and the Upton Revolution SOLO.
P.S. Bill Bruford eh? Pretty interesting.
