First impression is good. I really like the neck, with my Jag I kinda felt like I could break off the headstock if I squeezed hard enough. Not with the MM, the neck feels solid at the nut and has a thicker finish on the back. The frets are good too, feel slightly flatter and smaller, which I found I really like. All in all I'd say it has a higher quality feel to it.
This bass is also in perfect shape. No scratches, dings, or construction imperfections that I can find. A real "closet classic." The pickup is a bit uneven, and I can push it down with my finger, but still works. I'll have a looksee when i change the pickguard, since I'm definatly getting a black one. Also I love the painted headstock. I prefer the feel of a rosewood fretboard, but I think maple looks better, especially on a black guitar. What really bothers me with the RW on black are the two different colors of wood (fretboard and headstock) but not an issue with the painted headstock. +1 there.
Now the sound: I'm playing it with the rounds that came on it, but plan on switching to flats. The pickup gives off a kind of hollow sound, but in a good way. I definatly get a kind of surf vibe from it. Kind of a unique sound that I could grow to love.
I think this will become my main bass. Definatly worth the cash. The only flaw I can find is just a tiny biy of neck dive, but I think this bass deserves a leather strap, which will hopefully take care of that.
PS- Her name is Snoppy. The white pickguard makes me think of Snoopy when you see it on a stand.
