cheers for the feedback everyone.
Little_Fella - i'l see what I can do with the stereo imaging of the bass tonight.
you've got it spot on as far as far the monitoring goes. im using hifi speakers which aren't on a stable platform as im only in temporary accomodation at the moment. im moving soon and will be buying some studio monitors and some other hardware. I might mount a solid piece of kitchen worktop to the wall to act as a desk and to use as a solid bass for my new monitors. hopefully i'l see a marked improvement in my music. cheers for the tips - very helpful.