I don't think this is the case. Look at all the club threads for Fodera, F Bass, Sadowsky, Nordy, Alleva Coppollo, etc. I've been posting in these threads for a long time and I've found that most people who play high end basses don't really get involved in these threads. The only reason I even post sometimes is the hope that at least one person might give them a try with an open mind. I think some have changed their minds...or at least tried a 'boutique' bass.
Most of these threads start with "I have never played a boutique bass, but....." That isn't always the case, but it happens a lot.
I really don't have time to argue about bass choice on the internet, because, frankly, I don't have to justify my bass choice to anyone.
I've heard all the arguments pro and con. I just don't let anyone else affect what I play. I know what I like, and that is enough reason to play what I play.
Probably because they are confident and happy in their choice. Also, they have discovered what many know to be true: A fine instrument makes for an exceptional playing experience. I think it is only here on TB that you get the "I played a Fodera and it sucked" type comments. In the real world, those who can afford one are generally happy, no, ecstatic with their purchase.
In regards to your second comment i bolded, I feel it is my duty as an experienced bassist to pass on my knowledge to people. I know there are some real experts on this forum, but I suspect that the vast majority of posters here are not. if I had a student, asking my opinion on what type of bass to get...I know exactly what answer to give based on their playing needs. You are great with tools and like to tinker and experiment? Ok, get an SX. You are a total beginner not sure if you intend to stick with it? Ok, get an SX or Squire. You intend to play blues in a rough biker bar? Ok, get an SX. You want to play smooth jazz or urban gospel? Aim for a Carvin, Cirrus, Spector and one day upgrade to something even better...Fodera, Smith, Sei, Zon, Lakland, Sadowsky, etc....
My personal experience is that hi-end basses absolutely deliver. And in all performance areas, not just cosmetic. They are built my experts who really care about what they do and for the most part, are not in it for the money but for the love of the craft...and that generally translates to a very well made product that does exactly what you think it will do: Shine.
I have said it before, with these hi-end basses there is generally no setting that sounds bad. You don't have to work to get a great tone. They are the type of instruments that rarely need any set-up or upgrades. They are "life time" instruments. Most of them sound so good, with such an eveness of string-to-string tone that you end up practicing and trying techniques you never would with lesser instruments. In short, these are instruments that inspire you.
The bargain brands don't have these same qualities to me. They are strictly workhorses. That may be good for some, but not for me. (and obviously not for a majority of pros either)
But of course, everything I have just said will be eradicated by one teenaged poster with 2 years experience who says "fedoras suck"....or, by those posters who don't care about "exceptional" tone and craftmanship. Good for them, but do they really need to come onto forums like this and tell everyone how bad or how useless boutique basses are? And then when someone like me strongly disagrees, I am subjected to amateur psycho-analysis and rude comments as a result? fair is fair, guys.
