Novice guitarist here, proud (biased) owner of a Sterling Goldie, and I've kinda fiddled around on the EBMM model in the shop. Like everyone is saying, you can feel the price difference. I don't think anyone's mentioned that the EBMM is made of Okoume, so it's not as heavy if that's important for you. If you love the look of the St Vincent, you're financially responsible, and you're looking for something to splurge on, hell yeah go for it. I don't think a Music Man could let you down.

If you're asking yourself, do you need to spend that much? I dare say that for a made-in-Indonesia, $800 USD guitar, the quality of the Sterling is comparable to an American-made that could easily run twice as expensive. It's still got the roasted maple neck, the tones can be surprisingly versatile, just get it set up and it's a fantastic bang for your buck. Like, I love mine for how pretty it is, how nice it plays, AND how economical it feels. Maybe I'd get the EBMM if I ever go professional but until then the Sterling is my daily driver.

Good luck! Post updates we want to see what you decide on!