Do you guys gig your expensive guitars?

[tadol]

I’ve been lucky to find a couple of “expensive” guitars that have had extensive use gigging, and really show it. But they play great, sound great, and because it seems so many people worry too much about scratches and dings and repairs, I got them for great prices (not “cheap”!) and I don’t have to worry one bit about taking them anywhere. Plus, I have one great, protective, lightweight case that I can use to take them out, and thats critical -

[Coop47]

After compromising for 10 years (sound, neck, appearance), I broke down and ordered a jumbo from the Martin Custom Shop last year for gigging. Since I figured it would be the only custom guitar I ever ordered, I got everything I wanted and it came to $3k+. It required a big gulp, but I gigged it almost immediately and really enjoyed it. I was almost relieved when it got its first ding.

I never intend to sell it, so I don't mind letting it live in the wild a bit as long as I can make sure it doesn't get abused, damaged, or stolen.

[The Bard Rocks]

I do not play rowdy places. My guitars were bought, in part, to make me sound better - so I take one that does.

[Mbroady]

for any indoor type of gig I would use my best. The only caveat being I don’t have a “Best” guitar. Even though there is one that cost the most they all play and sound great. So I pick which one is best for each gig.

If it is an extended outdoor gig then I would most likely use my Rainsong.

[Wild Bill Jones]

Yes. Indoors all the time. Outdoors if no rain or the forecast I’d for big heat. My Brazilian Walker is not a museum piece. It’s to be played. And I love playing it. Win win for me.

[WordMan]

Played the local open mic last night with my ‘46 Gibson J-45. No one has a clue or cares. But man I love playing it, so yay.

[vindibona1]

Yes... But only in controlled circumstances. If I don't know what the situation is I definitely won't be playing my Taylors or Martin.

[Photojeep]

Considering a gig to me is playing at my church, Yes I do.

I would love to think that if I played professionally and outdoors I would do the same but can't really say for sure.

Best,
PJ

[lodi_55]

Most definitely! But at gigs when I'm not playing, it's on a stand or in its case. And I take my time.... I think most dings/nicks on my guitars are from me being careless.

[bufflehead]

The nice thing about gigging with my expensive guitars is that my expensive guitars never cost more than $1,500.

That said, I've recently picked up a stage guitar, the Breedlove, that's a cutaway acoustic electric. I did this because I mostly perform outdoors these days, and it's nice to plug straight in and not have to worry about the weather.

[Gordon Currie]

I originally thought my Irvin SJ would be reserved only for recording and the best gigs. However, I enjoy playing it so much that I don't want to leave it home.

I have a 'beater' Larrivee in case I'm playing in demanding weather, as it is less sensitive to temperature and humidity issues than my Irvin. But it is getting less use these days.

[jrb715]

Absolutely indoors. And outdoors in reasonable weather: no rain, no high humidity days.

[DoryDavis]

I do. I have 2 guitars I pretty much use as gig guitars, and when not gigging, sit in the case. But they are middle to higher end for sure. I have a couple other guitars I use at home. Every day I feel fortunate to have this humble (compared to many on they board!) collection.

[Silly Moustache]

Short answer - Yes.

I used to have four Collings dreads, and the first one (a '98) got damaged on the first pub gig I did with it (very sad story).
however it got fixed, battle scars but fine.
that was the one I'd use if I was somewhere that I didn't know or where there was a possibility of dings etc.
It did a whole lot of gigs with me, got dinged, and still looked fine, but I sold it recently (sob sob).

I don't do many gigs now, and I don't do pub gigs as such so it will be whichever guitar calls to me, plus my rebuilt and customised Martin 12 string.

It's all I got.

[jp2558]

Yes - my GPC-35E. It's the reason I bought it.