I also have been wanting one of these for a while. Yes, it was a little pricey for me especially with that thumb rest added. I also was not too fond of the finish. It was also a bad time. I'm kinda broke. The medium scale spoke to me though.
I dig this type of stuff from back then, Hyaks, Oasis, etc.... I am still searching for a short or medium scale Hyak with no scroll. Probably does not exist.
Tony, let us know how the bass is. I would like a full report!
Michael