[quote name='BigRedX' post='1214652' date='Apr 29 2011, 10:17 AM']Some questions for the Spector users here - probably cetera.
I'm GASing for a 5-string T-Bird style bass and would be considering a Lull T-Bass except I'm not completely convinced by the Fender-style non-angled headstock or the bolt-on neck.
So the Spector Rex bass has caught my attention...
However having just spent a confusing half hour looking through all the different options on the [url="http://www.spectorbass.com/"]Spector site[/url], it appears that the Rex is only available in 5-string as part of the MIK Professional Series. The USA series Rex is 4-string only.
Then I noticed the [url="http://www.spectorbass.com/usa/neck-thru/forte_5x.html"]Forte 5X[/url] in the USA series. Very nice and much more T-Bird shaped than the Rex.
So how much better (and more expensive) are the USA models? I can find prices for the MIK Rex 5 easily enough, but the USA series appears to be made to order only. TBH I prefer the look of the Holoflash finish, but the headstock of the USA Forte is far more elegant (I think the MIK headstock is a bit too "Warwick paddle" for my tastes). From a quality PoV bear in mind that while I have plenty of cheaper basses that I enjoy playing, the ones I keep coming back to are my Gus G3s and Overwater Originals.
So go for the bling and improved upper neck access of the MIK Rex 5 or the quality and elegance of the USA Forte 5X?
Or are there more options that I've either missed or have been discontinued but available second hand?[/quote]
This is almost impossible to answer.... but for value for money the MIK Rex basses are an excellent purchase. If they aren't quite traditional enough for you then check out Bass Central or similar for a deal on the US made Forte range (though these are stripped down i.e. without crown inlays etc...
If Spector did a Legend 5X Classic you may have found the bass you want.... might be worth e-mailing them to see if they have any plans to do so? [url="http://www.spectorbass.com/professional/classic4x.html"]Spector Legend 4X Classic[/url]
Then, of course, there is the holy grail - the new NS2X range of USA Thunderbird shaped basses.... [url="http://http://www.spectorbass.com/usa/neck-thru/ns-2.html"]Spector NS2X[/url] - again not sure if they do these as 5-string versions but, if they do, expect to pay in the region of £4K for one of the beauties....
It's all down to your budget and your personal requirements re: traditional looks etc really, but PJ at Spector will be more than willing to advise should you consider ordering. Good luck in your quest!