+1 for the IBANEZ SR300 series (305 in my case) and the YAMAHA BB cheapos (can't remember the model, maybe also a 300).
the pickups were their weak side....
Now all my basses cost in the £400-500 range, and what I appreciate of them is quality electronics, comfortable necks and that they make me want to pick them up and play (2nd hand Status's and a Musicman SUB5). The graphite neck also means it never goes out of tune.
I think that from 500 up, you just pay for amazing finishes, exotic woods and the inherent satisfaction of having a rare bass. This probably nobody will notice except for one or two drooling bassplayers in the crowd.
[quote name='Toddy' post='474436' date='Apr 28 2009, 06:07 PM'][url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbS226u_f4Q"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbS226u_f4Q[/url]
Check Nathan Williams,,,, £200 Cort Bass a loop an no effects... Blew me away at the London Guitar Show...
Cant seem to find a dealer tho![/quote]