If there's one thing this test and this thread has taught me to do, it's experiment.
I'm learning that your playing technique can alter the sound of strings significantly.
I have a bad habit of letting the heel of my plucking hand come to rest against the body, which alters the angle at which I attack the strings. Not only does it tend to deaden the sound, it also slows me down mechanically. If I get back up in good playing position, I get good contact with the pads of my fingertips and the sound is so much fuller. That good position also allows me to travel up and down the playing area, which is also a haven of sound. The sonic differences between playing towards the bridge and playing close to the neck is remarkable.
Some of my bad habits are exacerbated when using "grabby" strings, like GHS Precision Flats. The more acute my attack angle, the grabbier the string becomes, which slows me down and leaves me in awful position for the next note. I know most of this stuff is old hat to most of you folks, but these discoveries are full-blooded revelations to me.
I'm actually thinking of a temporary training aid that helps keep the heel of my hand propped up in good position - like a huge thumbrest with a raised block...just to help alleviate bad habits and aid in keeping my hand/wrist/elbow in good form. I'm also suspecting that if I practice more, these bad habits will disappear.
Again, this thread is filled with outstanding information, suggestions and banter. Bass playing, although it's a hobby to some and a career to others still has to be fun...or you should find another hobby or career.
Steve