Sire Marcus Miller M2

However, for all-round versatility and playability, I think that the active/passive option, extra dtring and being fretted (I'm equally comfortable playing either but the attributes of a fretted bass are probably more often useful than fretless), the Sire could survive the chop. If I was to choose something I don't have, maybe it would be a MIA Fender PJ 5er with a Jazz neck or an Alembic Series I or II short scale - just because.

Metal is vast, and like it's been said, you could play anything with anything. Many metal bass players have a P-bass. But if what you're looking for is something modern and agressive, besides what's already been said, I'd recommend a Sire M2. I bought one for that exact purpose, the looks fit perfectly, and it sounds great.

I've played guitar for 40+ years, and have decided to buy a bass to noodle around on. I've settled on the Sire M2, but the V3 is almost identical in terms of features and quality, just a more traditional Jazz bass style. In the UK these are £250, so should fit right into your budget.