I now have one each of the 4 and 5 string Cort Rithmics. They both sound great to me precisely because they are passive based and not overly 'hot'. I also like how each of them feels in my hands, the playability factor. I have not gigged the 5 yet but have had one trip out with the 4-string.
I have to admit, though, that I don't really know what I am talking about. Every bass I plays sounds like me and it appears that there is **** all I can do about it.