Seriously. I have one and have been looking for another as a backup if I ever gig it, and they are scarce and expensive these days! Of all the short scales that I currently own, this one really is the most comfortable on my shoulder for long periods of time. Mine also has fantastic low action that makes it so easy to play long sets. The only physical drawback is that it only has 18 frets. And if anything happened to it, it would be difficult and expensive to replace.
However- with just a couple mods and a good set up, my Mustang p/j’s are *almost* as comfortable (for me) to play. There is a slightly longer reach than the Modern Player SS, but the Mustang p/j’s are plentiful and not too expensive. Just getting rid of the neck dive with ultralight tuners and a high mass bridge helps the balance (and comfort) a lot... though modding it is an added expense to keep in mind. And actually, I think the Mustang p/j’s sound a bit better than the Modern Player SS; just comparing the stock pickups.
Before jumping back to 4 strings for a potential band, I had been playing my 5 string Birdsong Hy5 (fantastic bass!)... so the Mustang fretboard feels narrower to me. But coming from an Ibanez, like the OP is, it could feel chunky as others have described. I’d say for sure spend some time playing one before buying. I also have a new (to me) Gretsch Jr Jet 2202. That neck feels chunkier than the Mustang p/j. But the reach is very slightly shorter. As far as comfort goes, so much depends on the individual player! Be aware, OP, that some Gretsch Jr Jets can be on the heavy side, too. Just pick up a few and/or have the seller weigh it for you if you’re considering one.
And... if the short scale bug bites you... IMO it really is worth thinking about Birdsong eventually!
