A lot of professional musicians aren’t paid much, so it’s not really surprising that hobbyists (who can work at all ranges of pay) sometimes have better gear.

A lot of professional musicians aren’t paid much, so it’s not really surprising that hobbyists (who can work at all ranges of pay) sometimes have better gear. My brother teaches guitar and he frequently sees people who’ve just started playing show up for lessons with ludicrously expensive instruments. And hey, if they enjoy it, more power to them.