i really really dont like the matching headstocks .... there's an axis sport for sale on the guitar side and if it didnt have a matching headstock id buy it. i cant stand them ... but to each their own
For me, it depends on the color and config of the guitar. For example, I personally think a Petrucci 6 string in white looks great with a matching headstock, but I think I'd favor a natural headstock on the same guitar in black.
With basses, I think that the matching headstock looks good less often than with a guitar. I don't know why this is.. but in most configurations I like the basses better with natural headstocks. Actually, I'll refine this and say that with the basses, I think the Bongo looks good with a matching headstock more often than a Stingray or Sterling.
Lastly, I really dislike the black headstocks on the Limited Edition guitars and the SUB instruments.
I voted "No" for matching headstocks.
I don't like hiding the natural beauty of wood.
Don't ask me why I own a black & sparkle bass,
I prefer the natural & transparent finishes much more!
I noticed that no one had chosen "I could care less". We are one opinionated bunch! Most of the time I don't like the matching headstock, but every once in a while I see a bass (Trans Gold SR5 w/RW fretboard and Tort P/G) that just totally changes my mind.
Having said that, my all time favorite finishes are all natural- I would kill for a 20th Anniversary Bass with quilted maple (the flame is beautious, too)- the finishes on the Anniversary models are my faves.
My fantasy EB bass would be a walnut quilt finish, or a sunburst quilt. Ahhhhh....
Edit: I said sunburst above- meant honeyburst. Sorry, my bad.
Had them all, matching stocks, colored body w/black stocks, natural body w/colored stocks, colored body w/natural stocks, all natural... and my fav... no stocks. I like the way basses look, but it has evolved way beyond that - it is more about how they play and sound. Yeah I lean towards natural stocks, but who cares, the Bongos look and play great (and I've got 2 matching and 1 non matching one to prove it. )