Well, being bipolar....
I see both sides of the issue. Yes, it seems pointless, not to mention mean-spirited, to just beat someone down with a 'well, if you can't afford a pre-war Martin, then you might as well just quit now' repy. That's not helpful, and responses like that make people not want to ask any more questions, which is kind of the whole point of why we're here. On the other hand, it is important to occaisionally point out to some individuals that they may have unrealistic expectations. No, you're probably not going to get a guitar that sounds just like B.B. Kings for under $250. (and if you can, I will give you a nice finders fee!) I think this is more common (WARNING-BLATANT AGE-DISCRIMINATORY COMMENT FOLLOWS!) among the younger set, partly because they've grown up in a world where they've learned to expect instant gratification at the touch of a button, and partly just because they're new to this, so they don't quite get it that it's more complicated than that. It's too bad that we can't have more sticky's for the repetative questions, or a basic primer that would be required reading before posting, but until that happens, a little more patience from all involved is all that's really necessary. I myself, am not a very patient person, which is why I generally don't reply to the few questions that I really DO no the answer to. (Well, that and my ADD.) I'd probably just get mean and snippy, too, so I just pass. My hat's off to those who really do keep this place going. Please keep it up, and know that it's appreciated.
Jeez, how did this turn into a Hallmark card? Somebody just smack me. Shutting up now.
B.D.- perennial newbie