This is not the kind of bass you use for bowing solos in front of a philharmonic orchestra, but that was never the purpose of this bass.
I started out with one of these and it held up for several years of rockabilly abuse without letting me down. I trashed it around on stage, stood on it, pimped it with stickers and paint, had it scratced and played it outdoors. Lots of fun!
It has a weaker sound than more expensive basses, sure, and the tonal quality isn't that exciting either. But for a beginner, this is something to get you started, just make sure it is properly adjusted (go for the "Jazz" setup, unless you're strong as the incredible hulk) and if you feel the need for something more expensive after a couple of years, you can still keep this one for experiments or combat gigs out in the street!