Thanks Phil. I will have a look at the software.
Yes, Ampeg appeals to me, too. My preferred sounds is that late sixties soul sound. I've even just tried the sponge under the strings thing and it sounds great!
I've used the Ampeg bass pack in Amplitube VST over a 20 year period, use an Ampeg amp profile in my Kemper. The latter is my go to for recording/practicing.
That's all you need, without upsetting the neighbors. I'd need a real bass amp for drummer levels though, wouldn't want to go through monitors. But would take my Helix Stomp out and use, with satisfaction.
We're spoiled for choice with recording nowadays, and you don't need to spend loads to get decent results.
I'd consider that Focusrite if I was starting out, they do a slightly more expensive latest version also. Thomann have a decent returns policy.
Sounds like I'm pushing a sale

. Just really passionate about it, coming from the days of 4 track, this modern tech is remarkable. And you don't have to depend on band mates for your musical fix. I'm exploring drum machines at the moment...