Glad to see that we Bass players have some support! Les, I am very happy to recomend the Fender Acustic/Electric Bass that I have been playing for the last three years. I cost me about £350 retail new in the UK, and though it is not the best made of instruments in terms of sheer craftsmanship, it is a robust and servicable instrument and easily found or ordered by most music stores. Most importantly, it is loud enough to be heard in most small to medium sized sessions without amplification. At the end of the day, what price quality if no one can hear it?
Try looking at some of the other Bass guitar threads for other recomendations, The Hohner/Guild and Martin/Taylor offerings seem to be the other options that attract support from regular players but they all have cost or availability problems in the UK which is why I found the Fender the best compromise. Be warned, however, that your fingers will take a hammering as these instruments have to be played HARD to produce a big sound.