Are you a "corksniffer"???
If you're unfamiliar with the term, allow me to explain: it is likely a term appropriated from the wine enthusiast community, as in someone who sniffs the cork of a just-opened bottle of wine in order to fully appreciate it, to check its quality, experience the "nose" of it, etc.
But, guitarists use it more as a derogatory term, as in someone who can only use brand "x", often solely based on what he/she thinks other guitarists would likely respond to favorably. In my experience, most of the "corksniffer" types don't rate much as players, in the long run. Harsh? Maybe. I, however, have a sneaking suspicion that it's an excuse to simply not practice, to fault their gear for any lack of ability, or ultimately admit that they don't have the goods as a player.
You can hate me for saying that if you need to. S'okay.
But, I will retort with the following: "Do you think you NEED it in order to be a good player?". I think we'd all answer that with a qualified NO. You don't need it, you WANT it -- huge difference. I mean, sure, we all like nice gear, and there is typically a minimum acceptable level of playability that we demand and expect. But, I'll admit to having just as many really cheap guitars as I do nice ones. Some are suitable for gigs, some aren't.
I like to gig with them once in a while, though, just for shits and giggles. The guitarists in the room smirk, point, and guffaw. I smile and keep on playing. Because I'm playing to the 99% of the audience that AREN'T guitarists. The folks who don't care about your gear, just the way you make music with it. Besides, I have a tough time justifying the cost benefit of bleeding-edge high-end gear. My stuff is good, and it all works well for me. If it didn't, I wouldn't use it. I care not a whit what name is on the headstock/pedal/amp. Does it work? Is it reliable? Does it do what I need it to do?
If the answer is YES to all of those, then just play!
