I've only gone down the MIJ road once, with an 1960s Pearl kit. Thinking I got a steal for $95 I bought it but even at that price it didn't inspire me at all. I quickly sold it. Honestly, it felt so cheap. I don't get the MIJ fascination other than the interesting wraps. As far as playing them regularly forget it...
You can get a killer near-pro Slingerland kit for $150 more that will last a lifetime.