Matt,

I come at the "gear envy" topic from a different angle, as I'm not a working musician. However, I love guitars and love playing guitar -- do so every day, even if only for 5-10 mintues. I get huge enjoyment out of having a variety of guitars to play, simply because they all have their own personalities, looks, feel, and tone.

When I go window shopping I start out by reminding myself that I can't come home with anything new, since the budget won't allow it. So I have to go in the right frame of mind -- enjoy looking at, playing, and admiring the guitars, and if you find something that you really love, just walk out of the store telling yourself that when the time is right and you have the funds, you'll find another one just as good. (Let's face it, there are tons of great guitars out there).

Last time that happened to me was when I played a 64 Fender Duo Sonic in an odd sunburst finish. Believe me, I found out what all the fuss is about pre-CBS fenders. That neck played like butter and the guitar's tone was really cool. Plus, it was very nicely "aged."

I enjoyed it for about 15 minutes, put it back on the wall and bought a box of picks instead. I walked out thinking, "some day." And to this day I still have fond memories of playing that guitar.

I don't feel the least bit guilty about owning 8 guitars because I play them all. I would never buy a guitar simply to put it away and hope it appreciates, and I agree that it's a shame when people do so.

To sum it up, I believe that you can really enjoy the window shopping experience if you go at it with the right attitude. Plus, it makes the purchase of your next guitar that much sweeter. Think of it as research!