Ah the age old debate this, for me I play what I like buy what I can afford that can do the job. The fact is for me better gear is my choice of what I consider good sound, reliability and what makes me happy.When I have got better gear does it make me play better?, for me in a nutshell yes, it made me practice more because I justify my purchases in that way.Its whatever motivates you as an individual. That said its just my opinion, it's like an bottom everyone has one.