musician

musical equipment

musical instruments

There's a difference in equipment. Some equipment is way better than other equipment. Some are better only in opinion. A guitar that won't tune properly or has a crappy tone or action just won't sound as good, everything else being the same. Many things are just a matter of preference or opinion. Sometimes its hard to tell the difference between the two.

Think of the worst portable stereo you've ever heard and then the best stereo you ever heard. An extreme difference in quality probably exists. Music equipment in general is the same way, although often not as clear cut, just almost.

There are really nice sounding and playing $200 guitars out there. We have a few ourselves. Occasionally a $100 guitar comes along that is amazing for the price. Typically a quality guitar can always be found for three or four hundred dollars. We also have spent way more on guitars that didn't work out.

There are some real expensive guitars that are more than worth what you pay for them in quality and from an investment standpoint as well. Its like having money in the bank that you can play with until you need the case. And given the choice, we must admit, the guitars we play most cost more than $1000. Beware, most people are lucky to get what they paid for.

Remember too, that you can have a great guitar and amp, and a cheap cord will ruin it all. Much of music is a chain of equipment, and a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.

Be careful when buying equipment. There is a world of difference between good and bad when it comes to sound, just like the stereo example. Just because it has a big price tag, doesn't mean its a good deal. And just because something sounds good and works for someone else doesn't mean it fits you. Getting a good guitar gives you a chance to sound good and often inspires it. Give the decision the attention it deserves.

Bad equipment is a liability that nothing can overcome. Crappy speakers sound crappy even if your favorite artist's favorite song is playing. So buying wisely is really important. The less money you have to spend, the more important buying wisely becomes.

Before you buy something at a store, ask them what they would give you for it used. To a music store, day old gear in perfect condition is barely worth even half of what you paid to the same store the previous day. When you're buying gear, all music stores act like you're their best friend. When you're selling to them, the same gear automatically becomes crap to them for some reason. Buy smart and carefully.

And when people tell you that what they are selling is the best for you, keep in mind its often best for them for you to buy that particular piece. If it was such a good deal, the deal would speak for itself.

Try to get equipment that will give you a chance to sound good. And try to exercise patience and not buy something because it looks hot, or its the same kind someone else has that you know. Buy equipment that will serve well thought out requirements. Shop around. Look in the want ads, go to stores, check the mail order catalogs, ask your musician friends, find a shop with a money back guarantee so you can try it at home for a while and return it if it doesn't work out.

Most of all, find something that inspires you to play well. The happier you are with your equipment, the better you'll be able to play.