Back to 2016 Gibsons for a moment. Three 2016 model Gibson solidbody guitar models have been spotted already in at least a couple of different Guitar Centers: LP Standard, LP Studio and SG Standard. They have 2016 on the GC sales tag and "2016 Model" and 16xxx... serial numbers stamped on the back of the headstocks. They appear to be back to old pre-2014 specs and old prices. For example, LP Standard @ $2799 as opposed to the 2015 model @ $3759 with case (before the recent reductions). No headstock scrawl, no zero fret nut, no GForce.
There's hope. If the basses don't return in 2016, at least the prices ought to be more reasonable when they do.