SR800 or Sire (V-/M-)

I’ve owned an SR885 since 1992 and it’s still a great instrument.

That said, Sire has been producing some pretty top-notch instruments.

I read that you’re already familiar with Ibanez 800 series. If you have an opportunity, maybe you can try a few Sire models.

 

I've owned an Ibanez SR800, a Sire V3 and a Sire M3 (both Sire basses were First generation)

The Ibanez is a PJ bass with active pickups (Lo-Z or AFR) and active preamp - great bass with the thin Ibanez SR neck. Quality is top notch on this as it was among one of their best basses at the time. This wasn't made with any budget considerations or constraints so.....
The Sire basses have wider necks, heavier, the quality of these are very good especially given the price, they were made with the idea of making the best bass for the price range and well, imo they delivered. In my personal experience, I do preferred the Sire V3 jazz bass over the M series - wasn't as impressed with the humbucker pickups for some reason as their jazz configuration.
I think you would be good either way but marginally, I'd pick the SR800 because while the Sire basses are great, even terrific "budget" basses of today, the Ibanez SR800 just reeks of quality (it was the precursor the prestige quality basses), is a PJ, the thinner neck and lighter weight are big pluses.

 

I'd take the Ibanez over the Sire.

 

+1 to all of the points above

 

I had a 94' Ibanez SR800 in a Kaymen Green.
Well built, sounded awesome, and fun to play.

I went into a guitar shop and they have a deep blue one there. If I was in need of another 4, I would be buying it in a heartbeat.