I must admit that I bought this bass because I liked the way it looked and didn't want to spend a lot more for the Gibson model of the same shape.  When I got it, it was prettier than the picture but buzzed a lot, so I took it to my local music shop and they adjusted it for $5 dollars.  Now it plays great and I look good playing it... that's important right?  Anyway, I can't put this thing down now and if I ever get really good at it, I may buy the Gibson after all.  But for now this bass rocks!