I would kind of agree with Lycanthropy in that it is entirely a subjective thing, and each actual instrument even if they're the same model differs from another, however it is good to learn from the experience of others.

Interestingly enough, my very first bass was an Ibanez GSR200, possibly the one that was recomended. From my experience I would say it is the perfect first bass. It is easy to use/play/get to know and, perhaps most importantly of all, it will last you very well.You needn't trade it in for anything as soon as you start gigging, I still own mine and it actually has a very, very good recorded tone. Albeit some of the hardware is a bit shoddy, and it doesn't play as well as a top instrument, it isn't that versatile, but for metal it gives a very good account of itself.

So for anyone who's looking for a first bass, that's my tip.