i dont think the WC Fields quote fits the box bass, i think the value is shown by the editor of Bass Player magazine June 2007 on page 15 and Elderly Music Store... the resonating body of the cardboard box bass has a sound that undenably matches ANY upright bass made at any cost. The combination of resonance and air within a body is what creates sound, and the included transducer matches any transducer at any cost... please understand that the box bass is not a replacement for expensive woods and fine luthier craftsmanship, but rather it's a novelty that's fun to see, hear, and play.
It's crazy but true.

I have 230+ Ebay purchasers that gave positive feedback describing the box bass. ((then again, maybe Barry Finn was talking about the upright bassists that pay $thousands?)) ***smiles***