Inquisitive Points to Consider Before Purchasing New Equipment
Flip the script: Gear Hoarding Syndrome, a common affliction faced by musicians across the globe, finds ’em relentlessly scrolling through used gear listings, obsessing over deals. But let's face it, sometimes your equipment needs to step aside so creativity can take center stage.
Tempted to go on a purchasing spree due to Gear Acquisition Syndrome (G.A.S.)? Here's a list of 10 probing questions to ask yourself before adding a new piece to your inventory:
1. Is it functioning or hopelessly broken?
If the gear is beyond repair and you don't have a concrete plan to fix it, it's already an encumbrance. Repair can be tough and pricey, so consider cutting your losses and either getting it mended or getting rid of it.
2. When's the last time you turned it on?
If you can't recall the last time you powered it up, that's a red flag. If it's been over a year, even worse. You probably don't need to hang onto something that you're not using regularly.
3. Have you even taken the time to learn how to use it properly?
Still haven't cracked open the manual? Struggling to understand how it operates? Give it a shot before discarding it. But if you still can't get a feel for it after putting in some effort, it's probably better off in someone else's hands.
4. Can another piece of gear do its job just as well?
Modern equipment is like a Swiss Army knife; it can perform multiple functions. If another item in your arsenal can do the job equally well, why keep both? Cut down on the clutter and keep just what you need.
5. Do you have a purpose for it in the near future?
If it's not currently being utilized, do you have a clear plan to incorporate it into your workflow soon? If not, its contribution to your music might be limited.
6. Was it an impulsive purchase?
If you made a snap decision to buy it, you might be feeling buyer's remorse. Swallow your pride and consider selling it to fund something more valuable.
7. Does it hold sentimental value?
Does it remind you of a cherished memory or unique circumstances under which you got it? Emotional attachments aren't a problem, but be cautious not to keep things simply because of their nostalgic value.
8. Did you buy it because it was a great deal?
A fantastic deal is irresistible, but that doesn’t mean it’s essential to your setup. If it’s not bringing value to your music, you might be better off selling it to finance something more useful or compact.
9. Would you rather sell it to fund something else?
If you have a large investment tied up in it, and you could easily turn around and make your money back—or even more—on the used gear market, it's worth considering letting it go.
10. Does it make you feel inspired when you plug it in?
Great gear should not only be functional but also inspire you creatively. If it doesn't ignite that spark of inspiration, you don't have to keep it around.
Consider these questions before adding new equipment to your collection, and you'll find that you have a more focused, enjoyable set of tools at your disposal.
- To maintain a minimalist lifestyle and make space for new fashion trends, it's essential to regularly assess items in the fashion-and-beauty segment, just as musicians need to reevaluate their gear collection.
- To strike a balance between lifestyle and entertainment, one might contemplate adopting a similar approach to music equipment as in achieving a clutter-free wardrobe and only retaining pieces that evoke creativity and enthusiasm.
