Compare this with a Fender P-bass which is close to 13 lbs and your shoulder will really feel the difference.

The neck is also quite trim, 1.5 inches at the nut. It's unbelievably fast and the action is wonderful. The finish on the back of the neck is oiled (not varnished) so it never sticks.

The body is beautifully rounded and quite comfortable. Another factor in its size is that the Gotoh bridge is mounted all the way down at the end of the body, which makes the whole bass a little shorter. Very easy to reach the low notes. This is important if you're shorter than average.

The Gotoh tuners are gold as is the bridge. The entire look is one of understated elegance.

The active electronics allow almost any sound/style you could want. We've had slap-happy friends play it with a great funk sound. (We lean more toward the rich full upright bass type of setting) The solid mahogany body adds a richness to the sound that defies its size.

The build quality is superb, the bolt-on neck is one of the most precise fits I've ever seen. Our only complaint is that to change the 9V battery requires removing the cover plate on the back, (four screws) which screw into wood. This is not something you want to do during a gig. Right now we just make sure there's a new battery installed before a performance.

We've asked our local luthier to install one of those snap-open battery compartments made by Carvin. (they cost $8.50) and have to be routed in but that should solve our only complaint.

These basses also come in a painted ash version. I've played one (a bright transparent yellow) and it was very nice. The custom woods however look as good as any custom bass you'll find.

This bass is all business. It looks and plays as good as basses costing twice as much.

If you are looking for a lightweight bass, some others I found are the Peavey Axcellerator Plus which weighs only 6.5 lbs and the Carvins weigh around 7 lbs.

Construction	99%
This is a "lifetime" instrument
Playability	100%
I have never played a sweeter playing bass
Appearance	100%
The bubinga top and gold hardware are gorgeous
Sound	95%
A very wide range.
Value	100%
I think these are underpriced.