OK to start off, i want to say that i wish more than anything else that i could give the instrument a perfect 5/5 in all categories. However, there are some problems that need to be adressed.
Good things first (and they are plenty). This bass looks AMAZING! I love the natural finish, the inlays are a nice change to your classic white inlays. It really is a beautiful bass and it is just so inspiring to pick up and play, and for me that is always the most important.
Sound wise i think it really delivers. Great tone and sustain. I think it can go against competition from higher price ranges with ease.
Combine those with the active electronics and neckthrough construction and you get a solid instrument capable of much more than being a stepping stone for begginers. I would easily take it to a gig, without second thought.
Having said all that, mine came with quite a few toolmarks and scratches. on the fretboard, on the neck and on the body. particularly 2 of the scratches are somewhat large and noticeable, and i am a bit worried that they ll grow with temperature/humidity change. I dont care about the visuals in that aspect, so i dont mind them now, i just dont want to think that i might need to spend more money on a new instrument.
Lastly, the ceramic pickups do absolutely fine, but perhaps for next generation Thomann could go for an eponymous brand and that would lead the already amazing sound that the HBZ-2004 has to skyhigh levels.
No matter what, we can be thankful that we can have instruments so good at such a great price! Thanks Thomann and Harley Benton
