Well I did it this week and ordered a Palatino. I debated buying one for a year but this winter is really been tough on my crushed discs. With 2 practices a week and both in basements the full sized basses are not getting it for me. I have read all the threads and other articles on the Palatino and I'm sure it won't rivel my King Studio Master or even the Ole Swing Master I have but I am sure I can get the sound I want out if it with a little time and some $$$. I do my own work and have build stringed instruments for 25 years. I will post when I have it the way I like it. The only cosmetic thing I am going to do right off the bat is refinish it to blond. I don't like the finish they did for it. Anyway this beats the price of a new Eminence (not the sound) for now at least but I'm sure I will get one in the next few years