Unless you're like Willie Nelson and use one guitar forever, don't take guitar playing up as a hobby! G.A.S. (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) can lead to thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars spent on guitar equipment. I've spent about $20K on guitar stuff over the past four years (after coming back to electric after only playing classical for awhile), alot of it being sold to "upgrade" or just recoup finances. I don't regret it as I love to play and have just the equipment that I need, for now, until I see something better, or the next Musicians"Friend" arrives... Did I see a contract in the back of their catalog requiring signature in blood and exchange of soul. ;0) BYS