This is a hard bass to find and I see a LOT more of the 8-string version than I do of the 4-string ones. The 8-string necks really blow because of the extra string tension; I have never played an 8-string Studio that I actually liked. This one is almost a polar opposite. It's really nice to play but be warned, the bass weighs around 11 lbs so it may not be everyone's cup of tea. It has the good pickups, just like the early Musician basses except without the pole pieces. Active electronics and the big feature here is a 5-way rotary Varitone switch that gives this bass all kinds of voices. The bass has been oversprayed in spots but it was a natural finish anyway. Once I work on the finish a bit you will NOT be able to tell the difference. Let's put it this way, it's no big deal. BEsides, I've got the original Studio case for this one which is totally unique.