Thanks very much everyone. I'm always up for a new challenge   Though I will never rise to trip's use of this inspiring instrument, sincere efforts will be made.
I had a stickbass years ago but it required the abdomen of a teenager to play comfortably. With this, that won't be an issue!
Btw the store was Rock and roll vintage and synth in Chicago. Heath was the man there. They have a lot of funky pieces.

Well ups changed the delivery window on me 4 times from 10 am to 7:30 pm. I had to leave at 6:15 for a function. So now it's Saturday 4:30-7:30 pm. Another message says Monday.
I am at the mercy of the machine. The frustration comes when you look at the tracking map and when it's 3  blocks away and decides to go another route. Sooooooo close.

The Machine is a heartless creature.   
Certain the beast of an 8 string will be happy in your hands!

I may have gone after the truck, if it was three blocks from my house! You're a better man than I am Dan. Hopefully it makes a surprise visit, before Monday. Best of luck with your new beast!

Regards,
Pete

Well , it did arrive at about 6:40 etc. tuned it up, replaced the batteries and machine screws for the control plate.  Can't imagine why there were wood screws in there.
Great tone and sustain. This animal is going to take quite a bit of time to become comfortable with. The left and right hands don't always work together on the string choice real estate. After working with this I'm going to fly around on the SCBB!