I think there are fair comments suggesting that $800 or $1500 or $2000 guitar made by master craftsman will perform better. My experience in this matter was around the epi SG and gibson sg. My first decent playing guitar (after deciding to take playing as a serious hobby) was an epi sg. I was thrilled with it - compared to my starter. I loved the way SG feels in my lap (compared to strat, les paul & casino)...so when the time came - I bought a cheaper gibson sg...and man....what a difference....now that I had some idea of appreciating the difference. Often after a practice session with my gibson - I will pick up my epi and play a little. I still like it and would proudly give it away to a serious student (in my circle of family & friends).....OK so today - I picked up this viola (my first bass). All the comments here really helped my make my decision. I'm expecting it to be a little top heavy....to sound good - not as a Hof...but a reasonable bass sound (hummers). I also expect it to look beautiful...and be fun to play...especially as I am a big Beatles fan. Hope this helps.UPDATEThe guitar arrived in 3 days. It was packed by the Epi factory and then UPS pack that. It arrived safe and sound. The construction was flawless - the woodwork in excellent - nice grain that compliments the instrument - front & back. The factory setup was perfect for me - after tuning it was ready. It plays as I expected....I am recording (as a hobby) and don't really need a big cabinet - so I cannot speak to that. But I was able to add a bass track to a loop I have been working on and playing over. Now it really sounds nice. Now I just have to learn not to play the thing like a 6-string....instead to provide a nice backbeat.Ok - so I would say this is the best $299 I have spent in a while. I'm no expert...But for me this guitar is a real treat. Fun to play..sounds good......and looks beautiful.