What I found rather limiting on the standard Spoiler is that it has a pick-up switch, rather than a panpot. The both on position is nicely mid-scooped, but with a panpot there's lots more variation in funky goodness on either side. You can dismount the electronics and send them to the mothership for the modification, and it really won't cost you an arm and a leg.
 
While you're at it, I would recommend replacing the two-position Q switch (0/8 dB) with a three-way 0/3/6 dB. With the filter (tone control) fully open, the switch will add an addictive sparkle to the attack part of each note. (The standard 8 dB option sounded a bit too harsh to my ears.)

Thanks adriaan , I like that suggestion . That sounds like truly valuable information. I am going do that if I get a Spoiler.

Hi,
 
Couple more questions for the experts.  Do these use the 1/4 or 1/8 spline for the pots?
 
Also, how easy it to replace the switch.  The one on this bass is heavily tarnished.
 
Cheers, Lee

An alternative view.  How harsh the 8db setting sounds can depend on your rig and how you have it set up, your strings, your particular bass, your fingers, your ears, and what kind of sound you're trying to create.  For instance, I typically have mine set at 15db; but then, that's just me and all of the factors I mentioned above.  So while 6db works as a maximum setting for Adriaan, it might not necessarily be the best choice as a maximum for everyone.  A popular choice for a three position switch is 0/6/9, which is the standard setup for Series I electronics.

My guess is 1/8, but don't order until you're sure :-)
 
I also see the benefits of the 3 way, my choice is 0-6-8 dB though,  
I love the sound of 8 dB, but love to experiment with lower settings (especially on the bridge pickup) for the reason Adriaan mentioned: (The standard 8 dB option sounded a bit too harsh to my ears.)
 
The switch replacement involves soldering I think?

Hi,
 
Here is a pic of the spline.
 

 
Can anyone with the same era bass confirm whether this is 1/8 or 1/4?
 
Cheers, Lee

Well I have an 81 Distillate and it is 1/8 ; looks like yours in the pic.

Hi Dave ,
                 Thanks for providing that ' Control Reference Standard this now REALLY sets the  topic in perspective. These matters always have such variables .I learned  something about series 1 electronics.

That's a no brainer, 1/8 indeed ;-)

Lee:
 
(If you take a ruler and hold it next to the shaft, it will measure out to be either 1/8 or 1/4 in diameter.  If it measures 1/8 it is a 1/8 shaft.  If it measures 1/4, it is a 1/4 shaft.)
 
Never mind, I misunderstood and thought you had already purchased the bass.
 
Bill, tgo
 
(Message edited by lbpesq on May 25, 2009)

Lawyers...  
 
 

Hi,
 
Thanks for the advice.  It does indeed look like a 1/8, but I am not able to measure the shaft, as I don't yet own the bass
 
If I win the bass, I'll double check with the owner before I order.
 
Cheers, Lee

The shaft appears to be about half the diameter of the 1/4 phone jack...
 
 
Mike

Behold the 1/4 shaft:
 

Yes , I used the 1/4 inch phone jack on the Spoiler as a visual guide as well to determine that it was an 1/8 inch pot .