What makes THIS bass sound so good? Zon import standard / Electronics ? Body ?

[jibreel]

Played a Zon Standard 4 string import bass yesterday.

Man, it sounded GREAT?? So clear from the lowest notes to the highest. Very nice electronics.

Here is the Zon link: http://zonguitars.com/zonguitars/imports/
I played the 4 string on the right.

Is it the electronics? Having tried many of the high end pickups, I have not tried SD.

Is it the maple body? Not trying to start the tonewood battle.

I know, totally subjective etc etc. If anybody has any comments, specifically SD electronics or maple body effects it would be appreciated.

Anyway, if this had been fretless [ they won't make import fretless basses ] I would have bought it.

Here are some quotes from a thread Scubduba started.

Originally Posted by scubaduba

I've had more time now to enjoy the Zon. Up front I'll say these things are very, very nice. The neck just seems rock solid. Build quality seems excellent. I have no issues with any of the build. Body is fairly small and fits nicely both sitting down and when strapped on.

As for tone, I'd say this is one of the most "transparent" instruments I've owned if there is such a thing. What I mean is that the electronics don't seem to alter the sound. Boosting bass or treble for example doesn't produce outright boom or hiss. Its like the true sound of the instrument is just being opened more on the high or low side respectively. The pickup pan is very sensitive. Small movements make a ton of difference. I actually like having the balance panned slightly towards the neck for a nice smooth and articulate sound. Gets burpy fast when rolled backward. So far I am very impressed. You wouldn't know this isn't some super high end instrument. The fretboard is impeccable. There's not a rough edge anywhere.

Haven't played it in a live setting yet.

Originally Posted by tombowlus

I have played two of the import models, and they are exceptional basses for the money! A more detailed review will be forthcoming...

[mmbongo]

I've never played a Zon that didn't sound phenomenal. I've never played one of their imports though, I always figured the graphite neck was the major piece of the puzzle.

[pablomigraine]

Wondering if THESE are made in the same factory? Look very similar. Strangely, everyone was very down on these before anyone had played them as where everyone was really pumped about the ZON before having played them.... only difference is Name-Brand pickups....

[scubaduba]

Not the same. Try both and you'll probably agree there is a huge difference.