I was going to say the CL are the top of the crop, but I do agree there is no top with EBMM basses, they are all top quality. My preference is in the vintage direction so I favor the CLs and love the 2 band EQ. I have a 05 Buttercream LE 3-band that is fantastic too. Althoug I have a 79 MM SR-4 that I just can't find anything better so the CL comes close and the rest of the SR-4s I have owned are a close second. My preferences are based on the 80s-90s alt Pop rock sound I need, and YMMV. I traded a 30th anniv SR-4 for my 79 and sad but happy. The 30th was awesome, but the 79 fits my pop rock tone requirements better.
I have never played a MM bass that I did not think was outstanding on the quality front, and there has never been a bad one in my hands. Some fit the tone range I strive for, but may not even come close to meeting the needs of others. If the CL or early SR sound groove is your thing. The CL is top of the line (if you can't hook up with a early MM bass). Very close IMHO.
Reb
I have never played a MM bass that I did not think was outstanding on the quality front, and there has never been a bad one in my hands. Some fit the tone range I strive for, but may not even come close to meeting the needs of others. If the CL or early SR sound groove is your thing. The CL is top of the line (if you can't hook up with a early MM bass). Very close IMHO.
Reb
