My first acoustic (non-standup) bass was a Washburn B20 (or some Model number) which was okay plugged in but was too quiet acoustically and balanced poorly on the lap or strap. Fast action with flatwounds though.
My second was a Godin fretless four string which was even quieter acoustically than the Washburn but sounded great plugged in and balanced beautifully on the lap and strap. Incredibly fast action with nylon coated Fender tapewound strings (9120s). This axe was my regular gigging bass for several years in The Unknown Legends (a Neil Young tribute band) and Homespun (a celtic band) not to mention misc other outfits. Unfortunately I retired the Godin after a couple of stage accidents. I am considering another, likely a five string.
Others I've tried and liked are the Martin and Guild, and various one-off handmades. The funkiest award is shared by a bass banjo (make unknown but Gold Tone makes one now) and a Regal resonator bass. All fretted.
My experience is they all need amplification to some degree or another. Therefore a solid body is still a viable choice. I prefer Fender styles, fretless, and flatwounds. My idea is that they all should sound like a respectful nod to the bass fiddle.