I bought this Squier Bass guitar from Musician's Friend simply because it was on sale and I was intrigued to try a 5 string p bass. At the price point I got this bass at (rhymes with toofiddy) I feel this is a solid well constructed instrument. I did receive one with a 2 inch long finish crack in the neck pocket which was returned for another which was without a blemish. The frets are not sharp; something that is often associated with lower end bass guitars and the semi wide fret board feels natural when playing. The pots and knobs feel/look as though they are as good as any on a MIM fender.

This being said, the only real downfall to this bass is the weak pickup. Another reviewer referred to the pickup as being "hot", let me just say that it is neither hot nor is it loud by any stretch of the imagination. I was actually unable to trigger the effect on my envelope filter due to the signal being so weak. This was remedied with my boss EQ pedal. Perhaps moving the pickup closer will resolve this somewhat, but I am doubtful as the height is about perfect as is. The bridge is your typical cheap retro or "vintage" style and although cheap is certainly sufficient at this price point. I was able to obtain rather low action and not experience any buzzing to speak of. If you are looking for a 5 string p bass and do not want to shell out big money for an American made instrument, then this Squier Bass will fit the bill nicely.

On a final note, the Olympic White color with the tortoise shell pick guard is quite attractive in person, the sunburst allows one to see the multiple pieces of mismatched wood.