I need some advice!

[gregduboc]

Well, here is the thing. People say that, when you dream it, it becomes reality. So I decided to start planning my custom, for when I have the means.
 
My plan is to have a Exploiter, with a 32 scale.
I still have some doubt about the electronics. Even tough I love the sound of a Series I, I want something more simple, without the 5-pin cable, and with electronics that won't drain the batteries in 20 minutes as it will be intended for live performances, and I like to play wireless.
I'm thinking Signature. Any suggestions?
 
A major point now. The bass has to be very lightweight. I cannot play basses that are heavy live, because I like walking around while playing.  
What wood should I choose for the body? I know the sound changes from wood to wood, but I'm sacrificing tone for playability here. Is maple a good option?
For the top, it will be painted, so appearance is not important.  
For the neck, I was thinking maple with thinner-than-usual ebony laminates (I love the sound, but I hate the weight). Any thoughts on that?
 
Thanks,
 
Greg

[FC Bass]

For a 2 pickup setup, my ultimate set would be: 20th Anniversary with 3-way Q's and mastervolume.
 
Maple gives a very in your face sound, no shortage of highs.
Best sounding bodywood in my humble collection is Koa.
 
You might want to consider a semi hollowed out body, not sure how that will affect the balance though...
 
Good luck!

[lembic76450]

Greg,
I have an Essence that sounds great, I bet with a Q switch would be very interesting, also this is a very simple control set-up. For a little more variation the Rogue/Europa set-up is quite flexable.
Flip's idea of semi hollow might be a the perfect idea.  I seem to remember a semi hollow Essence? being pictured somewhere on the site. I believe it had a single F hole.
I took a quick look around but i could not find it. Anyone remember this?

[keith_h]

I second Flip's suggestion of 20th Anniversary with 3-way Q. This will get you about as close as you can to Series Electronics.  
 
I think a mahogany body with maple top would be a good wood combination without a lot of weight. The maple top will tend to brighten the tone if that is what you are looking for.  
 
Keith

[jazzyvee]

I have an all maple Elan 4 with Europa Electronics which is the lightest of my all basses has a great bright punchy sound. The Europa electronics are very flexible and very easy to manipulate although I think the heavier mahogany body of my Europa bass gives it a less bright but more flexible tone.  
 
The Signature electronics are also very easy to use once you get the hang of it.  
Hmm as for thin Ebony lams, I would presume you'd need a certain density of Ebony in the neck to get the tonal benefit so i wonder if you thinner ones would be worth it.
Jazzyvee

[gregduboc]

Thanks guys.
I will read this over and over.
As for the ebony laminates, I thinking that perhaps, using a single one instead of dividing it in many slices might be the best choice. I guess I'll have to have this discussion with Mica when I'm ready.
Maple does seem to be the wood for the body that will match what I'm looking for. It's light and punchy. And that is what I was looking for.
 
Greg

[pace]

Greg,  
 
Anniversary electronics, or maybe Signature with a couple of mods (bass/treble cut/boosts if you need to quickly shelve each extreme).  
 
As for body woods, I think Swamp Ash might be the lighter of the options, and could make a fair amount of Ebony in the neck less of a strain.

[David Houck]

A single Ebony laminate should be sufficient.
 
I think what Flip was suggesting is also called a chambered body.

[lembic76450]

Greg,
I found that pic of the semi hollow, it must be a Custom.  I had a pic stashed in My Pictures
 

[mario_farufyno]

Wow, that is gorgeous

[gregduboc]

That is quite something!
 
Greg