Why do so few pros play boutique guitars?

**floatingpickup** · 07-09-2024, 07:34 AM

I have played an ES-175 on gigs for over 50 years and not once did I think about the shape of the heel. In fact, this is the first time I have ever heard anyone saying they found it to be a problem. I am quite familiar with the less bulky heels referred to in this thread and I think that shape is quite nice, but to me it’s more about style than functionality. I don’t mean to sound argumentative or disrespectful, but I don’t really think this is a big deal (and I do play above the 12th fret quite often).
Keith

**StoneWaller** · 07-09-2024, 10:52 AM

Originally Posted by nyc chaz

I don't know anybody puffing their chest out about their new hammer or leaf blower.

I don't know about that. Most craftsmen are pretty into their tools. I talk about my 4 figures worth of hammers like Bubba talks about shrimp. Not much differemt than here....."And, really, you should see my new hammer point. Ya, I'm running a hickory handle on a 4 lb head. Good carbide too. Nice balance, feels great in the hand and blows through granite. If it's not Vermont made it's junk. And don't get me started on my leaf blower. The power!"

I get it though. My wife put her sweaty sports bra on my empty 175 case and I almost left her.

**m_d** · 07-17-2024, 05:59 AM

I can think of quite a few pros that play boutique guitars: Peter Bernstein, Anthony Wilson, Mark Whitfield, Julian Lage, Larry Koonse... off the top of my head.