I've had my Jaco (VJ96) over a year, bought 2nd hand through this forum, I prefer it over the Squier at similar prices. The playability is top score, I have it setup as good as any much more expensive bass & it plays perfectly. I much prefer the real rosewood fingerboard over the 'paper & resin' of the Squier, I have polished mine with lemon oil & beeswax, looks & feels good.
All hardware is Wilkinson, quality components, the company has a good record for these parts, no problems at all & no need to upgrade anything, the pick ups give a strong output & have a wide range of tone with plenty of mwaaaah! Currently using GHS Black Nylon Tapewound strings, it's a delight to play. When I got it, still had the original roundwound strings & appeared to have been played quite a lot with hardly any marking to the rosewood.
For a budget range bass I rate it as excellent value for money & would recommend it. It doesn't have the glossy shiny finish like a Squier, fits in with the road worn feel & looks, it's a player - not a looker
I don't have any personal experience with the Squier so I won't knock it, I know many love them.
HTH,
Cheerz, John