Oh! I got the model names mixed up. I really like my Korean-made DeArmond Starfire... it's pretty far from stock electronically but the neck and body are untouched and it's a really good bass. I bet the new ones will be even better.
On another random bass topic... I'm pretty close to pulling the trigger on one of these:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/bass/pal ... 0431415387
I'm decent enough at upright to do a basic Garcia/Kahn type show but would like to get more into it, learn thumb position, etc. I have a pretty nice carved Czech upright that my father in law either gave or long-term loaned to me (I'm not really sure which) but it's so inconsistent and needs some serious repairs. It's like trying to learn to drive with one of your car's wheels halfway falling off. If tomorrow night's acoustic duo gig goes well, I'm ordering it on Thursday.