I noticed no real difference in balance since having the pole removed. The bass is in such good condition that I'm personally a bit reluctant to sell it and that's why I haven't re-listed since getting the pole taken off. However, I'm looking at acquiring a 5 or 6 and my spouse has informed me that our place is not big enough for me, my Signature Custom, SC, Distillate, EB-3, and another bass. I initially argued that at 3,300 square feet the house was plenty big but based on her response I don't think that's what she had in mind.