Allo
   Wegen picks are the DB's . expensive? Well...aye, but well worth it(IMO) Try Golden Gate if you can get em..   Sorta pseudo tortoise and only a quid..very mellow... Tortis Mondo good   Very expensive. summat like a tenner apiece I think...

I agree totally re. silk purse etc (Sorry mate!)

I think you may be wasting time and effort with your Fender - there's no magic button here, I'm afraid.

          Good luck though ... Spot   :-)