The SR405E steps up from the entry-level SRs with a quilt maple top over a mahogany body that looks absolutely stunning in Dragon Eye Burst. The visual appeal is matched by genuine sonic improvement -- the 5-piece maple/rosewood neck adds stability and a touch of brightness, while the humbucking pickups and active 3-band EQ deliver a wide palette of usable tones.

This is a 5-string bass aimed at intermediate players who want to sound polished without spending flagship money. The slim SR neck keeps fast passages comfortable, the balanced body sits perfectly on a strap, and the electronics handle everything from round jazz warmth to cutting modern rock tone. The Dragon Eye Burst finish has a depth that photographs do not fully capture -- it really comes alive in person.