I brought a Epiphone EB3 bass about 7 years ago for about £300, which was discounted at a trade show. I had the choice of that or a Mexican fender for about 10 quid more.
Now it looks as though you can pick up an Epi for £200!!!! Mexican Fenders go for £450.
I thought the price of things has gone up???? What with the recession!!!! What's Epiphones game?????????