Did you try it with the master volume pulled up too?
Yep. It gives you two options. Bridge + neck or all three. I kinda liked the bridge and neck, but found that I really liked the middle and neck pups the best as I'm a thumping bass guy! I am also pretty happy with the stock strings. I've been leaving stock strings on more recently and finding they aren't all that bad to play. While I used to be a flats only kinda player, I'm finding the brightness of rounds pleasing. And, not all that hard on my fingers which are pretty tough these days.
From my perspective, this bass is a great addition to the Fender line. Great electronics, a short scale, nice fit and finish, NOT a p or j variation, good weight without being too heavy or neck heavy, nice styling, good pricing. I guess you could say I think it's a winner and keeper.