I know penniless violinists who own £10,000 plus instruments. I know one violinist who has a long term loan from an investment company...don’t really know the ins and outs.
I’m not wealthy by any stretch, but I’ve got some nice basses.
I work, and I put away and buy what I want when I can.
I want to try a Tom Stenback Bass - they’re about £6000, and it’d take a windfall or lottery win to get one. They’re Fender “copies” - really fancy one though.
Each to their own.
Life is way too short - I’m enjoying my £6.99 bottle of wine. I know some folks won’t spend less than £10 on a bottle and I’ve got mates who drink lambrini.
End result is the same. And nobody in my band’s audience gives 2 plops wether I’m playing a Sadowsky (which in reality looks like a Squier p/j) or a banjo.