It was stated in a different thread that the George Benson's were now made in China. Is this true? They used to be made by Terada in Japan and were super high quality. If they've now be outsourced to China (even though I'm not a jazz player) it will be a sad day for me.

Well, that is true, and could be troubling - however the artcore china shop is top notch. It can definitely hold it's own with many MIJ. It is on-par with the premium for the most part. Taking the countries out of it - you get what you pay for. Bensons and artcore customs, and the new fireman, are all worth every penny.

Who is the OEM? Eastman? Even so, I have a hard time believing they are up to the level of Terada, who have been known for archtop excellence for 40 plus years.

It doesn't matter where they're made. As long as quality parts and craftsmanship ate involved--they'll be good.
Everyone balked at the Premiums from Indonesia, but they're awesome!

I disagree. The difference between premiums and MIJ Prestige are noticable. Paint runs, bad frets etc.

There may be a difference between the Premium and Prestige, but frets definitely are not one of those concerns.

I've picked up a few premiums with less than par fretwork. On a $300.00 guitar it doesn't matter too much.

On a good note, according to Ibanez website all three GB models are MIJ.

There's not one finish flaw or bad frets on my 920.
Frets are perfect with rounded ends.
I haven't had to do any extra work on it in a year and a half.
Not sure where you got your info from.

They may make a cheap GB in China someday, that's where the PM30 is made [if they're still making them?], but real GB's will always be Japanese.

I've had to do plenty of fret levels on poor Premium fretwork, just as I've had to do the same with many Prestige also.

If it's good quality, and it's cheap, why is the country of origin important?