My point wasn't that the other guy at the bar with a Fender will notice it or not, but that the elitist part comes from thinking that you *need* something different or above and beyond a Fender P or J bass. The fact that he is starting with a 'limited run of 12' speaks volumes for the marketing strategy.
I'm sorry if I'm coming off as negative, but this product is total vaporware right now. Until we see/hear/play the finished version, everything is speculation. I don't see what's wrong with asking tough questions about a product. If you want this bass and you have yet to see/hear/play it, you are likely wanting it for a reason that has less to do with the bass and more to do with brand, name association, etc.
So far the only reasons I've heard that someone would want this over a real Fender is 1) color choice and 2) the neck profile. Both people who have played the J haven't liked the neck so far, hopefully he will get it right. In terms of color choice, if he is offering infinite choices for body/pickguard with matching headstock after this first initial run of 12 at the same price I will be impressed.
Some people put credence in the reputation built up by someone with years in the industry. There could be a thousand reasons why someone chooses to try or learn more about these, from the options to the neck shape to the price point, etc. I really don't get your point- it sounds like you are saying if you want a P or a J you should just get a Fender or else you are just trying to be different. You really aren't making a compelling point here except that maybe you are the one that wants to distinguish himself and stand out from the pack by asking the 'hard' questions
I respect Dan and have no doubt he will produce a viable alternative to Fender and other passive Fender style bass models.
I'm only interested intellectually because I'm happy with my vintage Fenders and cheapo Tokai copies.