I've never understood exactly what four 1/16"strips of walnut (less than 1% of the mass of the bass) were supposed to do for tone. It sure hasn't proved itself in the strength department. My Epi Pro IV neck is pretty much the same profile as my '65 and '77 Gibson 'birds and I'd bet the neck is stronger with the maple in the mix. The fit and finish are excellent. Could "Epi USA" pickups cost any less than Gibson USA to make? I can't come up with a good reason. Why spend 3 times as much on a bass with the same pickups and (probably) quality for a Made in USA label?
I agree, this is a strange marketing move, it does cheapen the image of the USA 'Bird. Better to call it a Gibson, charge $1000 and discontinue the current American TBird. Then build a new American one with new pups, bridge, etc and charge $2000 for it.
There are still going to be a lot of Epi boltons sold, they're beginner basses at $249. IMO the necks are horrible, wide and flat.