The benefits of a low action are speed and muscle efficiency; if such performance is not a criteria, a pure tone with no interference from the neck is easier to obtain with higher action. Taken to the extreme, of course, the instrument becomes difficult to play, but 'as low as possible' does not suit everyone's purposes. I play a Hofner Verithin, with 'Trubass' black nylon-coated strings. No slapping or popping (I wouldn't know how...), and melodic playing, or blues- or jazz-style walking bass lines are more my cup of tea (Mmm... Tea..!). I always want a clear tone, no 'dirt', no Fx, just straight into a Hiwatt 200w valve PA amp, that's all. Too low an action would hamper what little ability I have, and speed is certainly not of the essence for me. I'm not a 'pro' player, being asked to play the latest hits; I play whatever I feel inspired to play, and the set-up of the bass gives me that 'inspiration'.