Part of the reason for buying it back as well is due to the fact that I'm going to sell the Wal. I realize that this is a Ric forum and I'm sure that most of you know that I am a loyal fan of Rickenbacker basses (even with the occasional issues) but I must confess that my Wal is by far the best sounding bass (and best range of wonderful/useable tones) that I've ever owned and it plays like a dream....especially for a 5-er. Unfortunately it appears as though I may remain without a band for longer than I thought and I just can't justify hanging on to this expensive of a bass for home noodling alone....I bought it to have a 5-er to cover all of my live playing needs on it's own. So it'll, painfully, go on the block soon.
So back on topic. Plans for the Laredo include a filter based preamp (Wal/Alembic-like in function) for some tonal variation and just to be a little different. I originally was going to go with the eq-based U-retro by John East but decided instead after reading many reviews to go with the ACG EA-02 in either the 3 control or 5 control model (made with John East BTW). http://www.bestbassgear.com/acg-eq-02-two-pu.htm Unsure of which knob layout will look best so I'm waiting until I get the Laredo back to try some layouts before I order. I realize I'll have to enlarge the control cavity, make a new cover and open up the toggle hole and drill two new holes if I go with the 5 control. The 3 control unit will look no different than the VVT layout but I'd prefer the passive mode available with the 5.
I'm looking forward to getting this thing back and getting into some new tone trouble with the mods.
Now, about that Wal...
Then you will have no reservations about selling the Wal?