I agree with UGB, i didnt buy a bass starter pack, but i spent a bit more on the Bass, and got an amp chucked in... which is utter crap, it was crap the moment i took it out of the box.
That being said, i havent replaced it yet.... (but i got dual 18" subs i can play thru
)
My thoughts on starter pack guitars and amps are pretty much the same. but i havent tried any of the higher end starter packs, like the squires.... mine was a "legend" and a friend brought a "sx". I think your better off with a cheap name brand guitar, than a starter pack.... My ESP was a huge eye openner to play after playing the strat copy, and the consequent reason the strat sits there collecting dust.