To some extent I would say yes it is. Not saying that that's why one would buy one, although someone certainly could if they felt the need to feel above others from a financial standpoint. The reality is though, to attain a Smith you have to be able to afford it, whether its by saving for years every nickel and dime you earn until you have enough to purchase it or whether you have the cash to buy it out right a Smith has a certain price point. That price point is seen by others as sort of a statement. "hey i can afford this bass" or "hey i'm good enough to play this bass", whether true or not perception is 100% reality to some people.
All that said, I love my Smith and I certainly feel proud to play it too!
