I took it out for the first full slate of gigs with the new activators just this past weekend. Friday night it saw a medium-sized bar/restaurant gig, then had 2 sets at a music festival on Saturday afternoon with a big stage for about 1000 people, then a more intimate setting that same evening with an acoustic duo. In each venue, it was very easy to dial in the tone I prefer with the filter at about 45% open, and Q-switch in the middle or bottom position alternately.
Ummm... balance is fine for me, but I can see how it would be a little awkward for some, as it is a little neck-heavy. Even playing for 3 hours a day, it's required no more than a strap adjustment for me, so I have just designated a good heavy leather one specific to this bass.
This Persuader is quickly becoming my go-to bass... (or at least one of them) as I expected it would. Most often, I play a Turner Electroline 535 PMM, or Renaissance 5's. (piezo briges) It's not a better/worse thing, or even a decision... it's just that this bass has a totally different voice altogether. I always carry two basses anyway, and the distant cousin Turner bass seems to get along well. =)
And yes, the experience of restoring this bass, though costly, was both rewarding and educational. Like they say though, it was totally worth it!
