Do I need a Soldano?

[Rick Lee]

I keep thinking about downsizing. I have so much more than I need with guitars and guns. Mrs. Lee won't need the money when I pass, but selling my toys would be a pain the ass for her. She wouldn't know where to start. I can't stand the thought of her not first putting cheap JJ 12AX7s back in my amps before selling them, instead letting some stranger get my Mullards and Bugle Boys, her being none the wiser.

 

[HowieJams]

Yes you need a Soldano, lol. I love both of mine, SLO-30 and Astro 20.
I don't know about the Hot Rod 100, but if it sounds anything like the SLO grab it.
One important thing for me, both of my amps sound great at TV volume, if not I would pass on the Hot Rod.

 

[romanianreaper]

I am sort of in this camp as well, at this particular time in my life. And to be clear, 2025 was not a 'banner' year for my practice. But in the last 12-18 months, my wife and I have lost friends from high school or college to cancer. We aren't taking any 'stuff' with us when they call our number. If guitar and gear still makes any of the hair on your arm stand up, get it. Life really is short.

Yeah for sure man. Although it is hard to stay positive with the pinnacle of negative energy in the world right now, I try to enjoy each day and grab guitars and amps and play knowing one day I might not be able to.

One thing nobody prepares you for in life is when your parents get really old and when people you grew up with start passing away. There is no map on how to navigate thru that. So buy lots of guitars!!

 

[PDC]

One thing nobody prepares you for in life is when your parents get really old and when people you grew up with start passing away. There is no map on how to navigate thru that.

Man - this is SO true. When our folks pass, it is tough because we are (hopefully) very connected to them. But we grow up knowing that unless something really tragic happens, we are going to outlive them. Doesn't make it 'easier' but at least it feels it was bound to happen. When you start losing folks from your own age group / peer group - that really is uprooting. No matter what you really love in this life - cars - guitars - woodworking - painting - etc. just throw yourself into it and enjoy the process. You don't have to be great or excellent at it. Just welcome every smile that creeps across your face no matter where it comes from.