I was very happy upon receiving this bass, after seeing countless reviews online and pictures I thought it's going to be great. Don't get me wrong it is a good instrument, but bad QC, ugly veneer finish and wobbly knobs take away all the greatness this bass might have. I think there are serious issues with Sire, because they advertise the products in a way and they look nothing like it. Maybe it was in the first series that they used a good flamed maple top, but the one I received looks deplorable, not even AA or A in my book. Second, the electronics, which are a big selling point for this bass, are shady, knobs feel loose and the plastic does not convince me. Of course I got mine full of fingerprints and a bit dirty, IDK what to say.
The Positives:
-Sounds big - very versatile and passive mode is just as good as active ( it works in passive even without the battery)
-Comfortable neck.
-Good weight
-Ergonomic
-Eye catcher if you get one with a proper flame top.
-Sturdy easy to adjust bridge
Overall, I will buy the bass again when it is available, and I will return with an update but for now, Sire has let me down with these silly inconsistencies. If you don't have a proper flame top just paint it black or white like the M2 and call it a day. This bass could have been great and it is a potential BTB killer. I gave it 3 stars because it sits somewhat in the middle but a proper model would be a 5 star no doubt. Hopefully 2025 production will be better.