I’ve never had a Squier, until a few days ago. I was looking for a project, to practice working on, changing parts etc, just for my own amusement.
So I found a mid 00s Frank Bello sig PJ Jazz. I have to say I’m pleasantly surprised. Nicely put together, the neck in particular feels really nice with good fretwork. The hardware is ok, no issues, and it sounds decent too.
Ok, I’ve bought it to completely strip and re-build, but it doesn’t really need it, it’s fine as it is.
I don’t know what constitutes entry level anymore, but as my mate above points out, compared to the MIJ crap we had to put up with in the 70s/80s as our first basses, instruments like these are absolutely great.