dude....look at the price differences though...i mean:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/fg=122/g=bass/search/detail/base_pid/515201/c_lv=1/
and slap the word "america" on it:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/fg=122/g=bass/search/detail/base_pid/511390/c_lv=1/
is
"Graphite re-enforced necks
Bi-flex 2 way truss rod
Die Cast tuners
Bridge that allows string-thru-body or top load stringing
Better pickups
Better electronics (potentiometers)
Much better fretwork
Better grade of wood for the body and neck
Comes with a hardshell case
Straplocks"
that really worth double the MIM/MIJ/whatever the first one is!?!?!????????
i need an answer quick it would either save my life or force me to wait and work another year or two