I know this thread is old, but I just have to weigh in on this:
I got a chance to sit down at Godlyke and play a lot of basses, and although there was one I didn't love(Disciple, bolt on 5) for the most part I think the basses are killer. Kevin is a very hands -on guy and is constantly tweaking the details on these basses ie: neck dimensions, pickup and electronics combos, etc.)
The 5 string set neck Deity was a finer instrument than many I've played, and at it's price point was an absolute steal. Kind of a Lakland vibe but with a richer sound and envelope and just silly playability, like Fodera low action and smoothness. If you are looking at Laklands and don't at least check out one of these you may be making a mistake.
Sure, they're made in Japan, but they're HAND made in Japan: no computer cutting and routing. And they are designed here-right in New Jersey. Call Kevin B. and he'll pick up the phone and answer any of your questions.
I'm not an endorser, just a big fan of these basses.
And you should see the 8 and 10 string basses they make....
Peace