just to answer the original question however....
Cort bass guitars are IMHO outstanding value for money, especially when buying 2nd hand.
Best 5er i ever had under 1K was a Cort A5 custom SP, and i believe they are made in the same factory as Ibanez.
this one actually...http://www.bassdirect.co.uk/bass_guitar_specialists/Cort_A5_Custom_SP_SH.htm
*that's the exact bass! i checked the serial number! not that i needed to, as that top is very unique! the person i sold it too must have traded it in.