He heh, it's not that it's a huge neck, it's that it's a small body.
the body is only 11" at its widest. Wide bass bodies seem to be the thing these days, so I wanted to try to go the other direction with it, and still create a really modern feeling design.
And as far as neck dive, the body core is hard ash, and is quite heavy. That should help with the neck dive issue, but I guess we'll find out!
personally, I love the small body and shape you have there.
in my utterly unprofessional opinion as a builder, but professional opinion as a musician, you have a real winner there.
I also loved your original design as well, regardless of the upper access.
That open head design is great, after seeing yours I'd love to give that a shot on my first bass.
(I'm also glad you're keeping them 4 string)
Can't wait to see them finished.
chris