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by whynotmaybe 338 days ago
https://www.guitarworld.com/features/gear-acquisition-syndro...

First from "guitar acquisition syndrome" can now become "game acquisition syndrome"
2 comments
mystifyingpoi 338 days ago
It is "gear acquisition syndrome". It refers to all guitar related equipment, actually I'd say that it refers to pedals much more than guitars.
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tgv 338 days ago
Synthesizers (and related stuff, such as effects or virtual instruments) qualify too. I don't know if there are other instruments which trigger this behavior.
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whynotmaybe 338 days ago
More than just instrument. GAS exists in Photography, cycling, camping, DIY, automotive repair,...

It's linked to the dopamine anticipation loop that buying an item feels like you're making progress.

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tgv 336 days ago
I was aware of photography. But it's remarkable that guitars and synths seem to be the only two instruments.

> It's linked to the dopamine anticipation loop that buying an item feels like you're making progress.

I'm not fond of such explanations. The brain is so much more than dopamine. I don't think there's even a thorough explanation linking buying a guitar and dopamine, let alone one that can link it purely to dopamine. Buying is not a loop either.

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999900000999 338 days ago
Very different.

With a physical item you can always sell it or give it away.

Instruments in particular can hold value extremely well.

Also, just having the guitar as a decoration can look nice.

There's a reason most guitar manufacturers put a lot of effort into aesthetics.

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