I'm a semi pro player in the cover circuit for 30 years, and my main bass is down (IbanezSR 885) and the backup developed a crack in the head stock so i needed something quickly - and with this pandemic.. well..... so this was my first online purchase of any instrument - I've always been a "play first, then buy" kinda guy - i have played this model in a B&M store, but as we all know, instruments vary. Well I could not have been more pleased with the purchase - one quibble - the finish looks more green than gray to me, but that's what happens with burst finishes.. they are all slightly different . Still a beautiful bass, and the fit and finish was awesome for an entry/intermediate. The fret ends were smooth with no snags, frets were even and neck bow was perfect... Kudo's to the set up guys- it twas perfect! intonated and ready to play. I tuned it and went to a gig.... and i am in love ! Its not feature packed- Id rather a pickup blend knob and the bass boost is handy but I'd rather have full bass treble and mid /sweep boost and cut - also the electronics are not as crisp as my EMG's with midrange sweep - but a little tweaking and its there. And considering my EMG pickup and preamp package cost more than this whole bass.. well. No comparison. also Kudos to zZounds for making this new experience a great one. Pros/semi pros.. beginners.. this bass was worth twice what its listed for. Beautiful finish, unexpectedly well finished and sounds great! (PS a 5 on ease of use, as it went… read more from box to gig without a hitch)

Sound
Crisp, midrangey with a growl when you want - and the bass boost expandes the sound nicely. Comfortable to play, fairly lightweight for a long scale full sized bass- 4 hours in the outdoor heat and no fatigue.

Features
The spalted maple is a great plus on this beginner/intermediate bass. Controls work smoothly and silently - the pots seem to be quality pots. My preference is to have a blender and at least bass and treble boost.. but for the price - its just awesome!

Ease of Use
Great playability - might need a set up tweak when it breaks in, but out of the box it needed nothing to be playable.

Value
Great value for the price.

Manufacturer Support
I've been a fan of Ibanez basses for a long time - I wish i could say that the manufacturer support was superior - but i have no clue, as Ive never needed to contact them. Good quality, reliable instruments, easy to play and comfortable - they really are built for the working musician.

The Wow Factor
Great looks, easy to play, easy to wear for long gigs.

Musical Background:
Semi Pro - recording and the the live cover circuit for 35 years as a guitarist, bass player and vocalist

Musical Style:
Country, Bluegrass, Rock, Classic Rock, Pop, Party Rock - anything'/everything read less