I bought a value bass and holy crap it's great

After the Renaissance of guitars about 12 to 15 years ago, bass is getting a similar treatment now - just looking at how many models Ibanez sells for under $1000 (and Ibanez is one of the best for value/dollar ratio) will tell you that.

On the other hand, beyond playability and personal preference, what can bass makers do to make them individual? I haven't played much over the years, but I'm considered getting one and start going through lessons - looking at the Ibanez SR500 as a bass line, but also Fender Mexi and Music Man.

I mean, I'm never going to be a great guitar player, so why not try bass?

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Also need to really want to be one with a drummer.

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I started off as a drummer, many moons ago.

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I play lead guitar and it is so cool at a show and we have a jam going and turning around seeing the bass and drums having as much or more fun than I am. Locked in.

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We really are dialed into each other. Me and my drummer have our own language of "looks" that tells me to slow down or speed up and tells him to do the same thing. We rarely even know what the rest of the band is doing because we have one fricking job to do and we do it. When the drummer and the bass player don't gel you have a serious issue in your band.

And the other thing about my guitar playing - I tend to do better (not great, mind you, just better) with finger style than flatpicking, particularly intricate rhythm or lead parts. Now, I can play a few things, but after putt putting for years on six-string, I'm ready to broaden - not abandon guitar playing, but maybe try something else.

Then there is Luther Dickinson who can fingerpick acoustic and electric enough to whip anyone's arse

Then play bass and drums too.

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dumbest instrument ever and I'm just barely able to conquer it

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What it does is profound in those 4 strings. Essential for a band. Takes some strength and callouses for sure. A pretty awesome ear to make the right lines.

To me a lot sounds and feels like crap without bass.

bought an Ernie Ball Sterling SUB bass because I liked the sound and versatility. I haven't gigged with my $1000+ fender in over 3 months. The question is should I upgrade to the Ernie Ball Stingray 4? I could probably pick one up at around $1600 used

Considering you've gigged successfully for three months with the big boy Stingray's little brother, why upgrade and why now? Not trying to encourage or discourage, just curious.

Also, if you haven't played the real deal Stingrays, some can be pretty heavy in weight. Worth considering if your gigs are 3+ hours standing up and if you're a small-frame guy and/or one with shoulder or back issues.