For the most part, not to me anymore. My main basses are less than £1800 and I paid way less for them years ago. They sound every bit as good, if not better, than basses I've owned that cost three times more. A Sire V7 5 with maple board and ash body is on my shopping list over the Summer as well, if I can find one that isn't too heavy. I'm looking for a particular kind of character too, which means I'll be trying before I buy rather than taking a leap of faith.