Safe and "economical" vs. custom and "special"

[vchizzle]

...guitars.

The guitars would be the same model. Functionally, the same. One is a stock model, the other would be an artist package that I have spec'd out. There's actually a couple in stock guitars that are beautiful instruments. I can't play any of the specific ones I'm looking at. I can get each at a very good price. They are 90% of everything I'd want looks wise. The tops are stellar. The artist I'd have built, would have brazzy and fancy inlays that I like much better. Also in a color not offered stock(though I can get close). Nothing that will drastically change the tone though. No idea what the top would look like til I got it.

I'm sure I could buy these stock models and be VERY HAPPY. I've bought several "budget" minded PRS and fallen in love with them. I've always gone the smart, safe and budget minded approach. I've thought lately I want something special, as meaningful(whatever that means). It'll obviously cost me a good amount more. But is it time I should quit being safe and just go for it??? Of course I have no idea how it will come out in the end exactly. I'd hate to be disappointed with looks, or more important, the tone...and feel I spent a bunch of extra money for nothing.

 

[vchizzle]

I should have made the poll stock vs. artist. I hate to imply stock guitars aren't special, because they are. Special, meaning made to my specs.

 

[s.fitzsimmons]

YOLO...... Seriously though, you're only looking at other guitars because none I the ones that you have are EXACTLY what you want both sonically and aesthetically.

 

[Mike Duncan]

Did you just use "YOLO"? :wink:

 

[garrett]

I guess it really depends on your style and your wants and desires. I personally go for the more utilitarian options because I don't like to spend out on non-performance features (like pretty tops and inlays). I really don't want that stuff.

But if you buy the "safe" option, would there still be a part of you that longs for the "custom" option? If so, go the "custom" route. You'll be fulfilled (until the next bout of GAS :flute and enjoy that special thing you picked out. I can't imagine being disappointed by the looks of any Artist top.

 

[John Beef]

I personally go for the more utilitarian options because I don't like to spend out on non-performance features (like pretty tops and inlays). I really don't want that stuff.

+1

I've been through enough guitars and thrown away enough $$, my preference is for whatever you can return to the store (usually not the case with a custom order) or resell for not much of a loss if the guitar doesn't do "it" for you, whatever "it" is.

 

[László]

I'm kind of an odd duck (wait, you already knew that? )

When I want a guitar out of dealer stock, I generally go for the core models. When I special order, I tend to go for options.

I think it's just a matter of temptation. I can, so I might as well! Ultimately, I'm just as happy either way.

The bling doesn't do anything for you once you strap the guitar on and go.

PS -- I voted "safe".

 

[sergiodeblanc]

I say treat yourself. If you have the money it seems like something you should do once in your life.

 

[Rango]

+1

I've been through enough guitars and thrown away enough $$, my preference is for whatever you can return to the store (usually not the case with a custom order) or resell for not much of a loss if the guitar doesn't do "it" for you, whatever "it" is.

+1

And with a little shopping I can usually find a "stock" guitar that is pretty to me - My P22 and my R9 are both like that to me. But if needed they could be sold and most of their cost recovered.

10K Private Stock? I think you'd take a huge hit if you decided to sell. Of course if you've got the resources to go PS, then maybe that's not an issue?

 

[Gnal]

I voted safe; but I could have voted special just as easily.

If you have the funds to buy a private stock and don't have other plans for it, go for it, its your money after all . Ultimately, if the quest for tone, or whatever it is you are searching for is tugging you in the direction of a custom build, then you ought to at least price it out and then make the decision.