i know it's a different playing field, but i bought my first 5 string and bass with active electronics(Traben Array Premium)for $550, note that i had never even played a 5 string or a bass with active EQ, and it was the best decision i ever made and now play it almost exclusively(still give my other basses a whirl ever couple days). now i also strung it with the tuning EADGC(which is currently tuned a half step down, LOVE IT!!!!!) and will probly never go back to BEADG, so it all depends on the risks you want to take.
Mike, how could i not compliment such a beautiful instrument??? ;-)
~Taylor Watterson
(Message edited by tmoney61092 on August 11, 2009)