LeftyBassist.com

OK, I’ve heard great things about Lakland basses, but have never tried one, so I have no first-hand experience, so allow me to play devil’s advocate. How does one justify the price? I mean, it’s just a jazz bass, isn’t it? how good or high-end does a jazz bass need to be? granted, even Fender’s American professional series has creeped way up in price now, IMO. But with so many different kinds of jazz basses out there, boutique Js and Ps have always felt like slapping lipstick on a pig to me. Thoughts?

I think these cost about 4k new. Don't ask me why
Like Tom mentioned as he owned one, the necks on these are like toothpicks. I tend to like thicker necks better but I actually like mine a lot.
The finish with matching headstock and birdseye maple dot inlays is flawless for a 21yo bass, string thru, they used Fralins, Hipshot.

I get your point about lipstick on a Pig and agree $4K for new is crazy but to get this bass at this price is nice! These basses play amazing and it's comparable to Fender Customer Shop rather than Fender US (off the shelf).

I can't speak to the JO models but my lakland 55-94 is in my top 3 basses. Absolutely killer, especially in the studio. If I were still playing in a meaningful way I would jump on one of these laklands.

I don't consider a Jazz bass a pig.

If the J or the P is your ideal config, it's nice to own a superbly-crafted one, imo.

The JO I used to own is still one of the finest basses I ever owned and one I still sometimes miss.

Almost bought this a few months ago even though my need for another bass is zero.

I've owned a Lakland JO from the same era and still miss it sometimes. So tempting.

Surprise - belonged to Chris Chew.

Serial is 267. Superficially, has some dings and weighs 10 lbs (despite what Chris says in this video). Only mod is a D-tuner. But the price is right on this one, Bob.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRV4uGcM1DY

Let me know if you want to see some detailed pics. Or just email Brian - seems like a good guy to work with.