The dreaded Gear Acquisition Syndrome, or GAS as it is also known by, is a cousin to even more dangerous The Collector-Fetishist. Photographers and musicians know it all too well — it’s a constant battle against the impulse. The Fetishist is a real menace, keeping gear out of the hands of those competent to play/use it.
I think it falls most heavily on the musician, though, as parts of the instrument-making industry unnecessarily conservative when it comes to designing new performance instruments. This is especially evident when it comes to electronic/hybrid instruments that might incorporate new technologies. No, I’m not arguing that a 16th century violin needs that much innovation, but technologies surrounding electric guitars, synthesizers, and controllers are constantly changing and there seem to be an awful lot of small mammals racing around the scene.
I’m in the midst of a rethink about how I have used the guitar over the past 60-odd years and there are clearly still more changes ahead.
Watch/Listen to this space…
Now here’s a God Jul image to contemplate:
