I just saw someone use a bass instrument called a "marimboola" or "marimbula" -- not sure of the spelling, but I think I got the pronunciation right -- and I'd like more info about it.

It's shorter than a stand-up bass because it has no neck. It has wooden thumb/finger keys by the sound hole instead of strings (so it's probably easier on the fingertips.

Anyone familiar with them?

The lady I talked to said hers cost about $800.   Can they be had for much less than that without sacrificing quality a lot?