[bartread]

This is an interesting perspective. I would still argue that you need the hands on experience, and I cannot emphasise the immediacy and satisfaction of using physical controls enough.

In my other comment I suggested that you won't find a bargain in vintage gear. That's true. However, if you don't want to be financially committed, you might do well do buy a vintage synth because you should get your money back - or maybe more - if you decide you're not that interested after all and want to sell it. Whereas with a new piece of gear, it will depreciate.

As I say, the market for these things is pretty hot now. I'm weeping that I didn't pick more gear up 10 or 15 years ago before it all became so popular. Of course, I didn't have any spare cash back then so there's that.

[brudgers]

I suppose you could argue so. But I am not arguing. I know myself well enough to know what makes sense for me.

It’s not the spending money.

It’s that spending money can seem like progress. But not really. At least not at first. Doing the thing is progress and I can spend what time I spend that way without product research and bargain hunting and shipping and unboxing and making room for another hobby object.

And accessories.

If I find myself at the point where buying something is progress, then that’s the time, but that is statistically less likely.