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Purchasing Music Equipment and Instruments

Music equipment is something musicians always talk about. But no one talks music equipment more than guitarists and keyboardists. Guitarists seem to adore their actual instruments, whereas keyboardists seem to love the technology of their instruments.

It's not uncommon for guitarists to have 5 or 6 guitars. But keyboard players love gear with the newest technology and gizmoism. Sometimes they'll purchase music equipment that does 5 times more than what they need it to do. For example, a keyboard player who's not into sequencing who buys a synth workstation may easily have spent an extra $1,000 - $2,000 more than he needed to. If you don't sequence there's no need for a workstation synth. All that's needed is a keyboard with a good selection of sounds  Keyboard players should be more mindful of their needs when considering multi-functional instruments.

When it comes to music equipment in the stringed category there are considerations other than fancy features. A bass or guitar is more organic to the player. In other words, it's an extension of them when they play. So they tend to pick instruments that feel more comfortable while holding and fingering. Maybe a manufacturer will boast that a particular bass has easier to turn tuning pegs or maybe you can buy a guitar with denser fret material for whatever reason. But generally speaking, string players make purchases based on what feels good and how good it looks.

When purchasing music equipment, it's best to understand manufacturer specs (specifications). Here's a short list of things to consider when shopping for pro audio gear.