I bought this pretty much the day it came out. After wanting a natural Jazz Bass with good specs for a whole while, this seemed like a great option.
Sire Basses have built a simple reputation that speaks volumes: Quality you just could not get at such a price before.
The Bass I got sent sadly did not deliver. While the finish looks great and the pickups shine with a great, fat Jazz Bass tone, the quality control is this bass's downfall and the reason it will be going back.
The first issue (1) is the disturbing amount of fret buzz. The playability is alright (mostly due to the smooth neck), even with the action being usable but not great. Consequently the fret buzz on the A and E string can not be blamed on too low action. Even in standard tuning every note on the low strings just buzzes and dies out. This is honestly very disappointing. I have set up many instruments over the years but this propably is not an easy fix. If I had to guess I would say the problem is bigger with either the neck being warped or, more likely, the nut being badly set up.
The second problem (2) is a very noticable dent in the headstock. This could be due to transport damage but the packaging was in perfectly fine condition so it seems unlikely.
Overall this bass just did not deliver what the brand and price promise. I have had greater Basses and experiences for a lot less.
My next one on the search for a good budget jazz bass will propably be the Shell Pink Harley Benton that has similar specs (even a caramalized neck) and costs not even half as much as this one.
