Does your guitarist bring backups?

[ra0ulduke]

In my first bands, I couldn't care less about any of that. I can't even remember some gigs because back then I was always extremely responsible about making sure I didn't run out of weed. Those days are long gone, though. Now I consider it a given that everyone in the band is responsible for ensuring that, in the worst-case scenario, the gig doesn't have to be interrupted for more than two minutes. How exactly each person ensures this is up to them. But failing to do so is unprofessional, inexcusable, and ignorant. Especially if you're not the only band playing and there's an entrance fee.

 

[newwavefrank]

Always. We bring backups for almost everything.

 

[Guitalia]

In my 3000 gig history, had:
1 preamp tube failure
1 strap loop tore through
1 strap mount screw pulled out
1 bass output jack failed.

Given this, seems it’s more practical to leave a small rescue shoebox kit in your trunk:
1 preamp tube
1 strap
1 toothpick glue screwdriver
1 solder gun
1 can of DetoxIt for a scratchy pot

Being ready for first aid might be more practical than lugging an extra bass/amp

I carry a spare head and spare bass. Can switch basses in less than a minute and switch heads in maybe a minute and a half. (Spare head on top of balky head. Switch IEC cable. Switch speaker cable. Count in next song.)

I've had to swap basses and heads once each over the course of a couple of decades, despite keeping my equipment in good shape.

Guessing the first aid that you're prepared for would generally take longer. Tracing the amp failure to the preamp tube, opening the head ("No user serviceable parts inside"), rummaging in your Snap-On cart for the spare tube, etc. That's got to be two minutes.

I respect your resourcefulness, and your approach obviously has worked brilliantly for you.

But I shudder to think how much repair stuff you carry, to cover all contingencies. All that to avoid carrying a spare bass and spare amp head?

 

[tshapiro]

I carry a spare head and spare bass. Can switch basses in less than a minute and switch heads in maybe a minute and a half. (Spare head on top of balky head. Switch IEC cable. Switch speaker cable. Count in next song.)

I've had to swap basses and heads once each over the course of a couple of decades, despite keeping my equipment in good shape.

Guessing the first aid that you're prepared for would generally take longer. Tracing the amp failure to the preamp tube, opening the head ("No user serviceable parts inside"), rummaging in your Snap-On cart for the spare tube, etc. That's got to be two minutes.

I respect your resourcefulness, and your approach obviously has worked brilliantly for you.

But I shudder to think how much repair stuff you carry, to cover all contingencies. All that to avoid carrying a spare bass and spare amp head?

Um, you must not be familiar with many of my posts. As it turns out, I have a garage kept touring trailer which has a spare bass, keyboard, mixer, 2nd PA, 2nd amp and speakers, multiple DI boxes, 8+ cases of well organized cables, tools, etc. And, the backup gear is always right at hand. The gigs I generally play require that type of resilience. But, looking back at my experience, the data shows quick repairs or workarounds are more practical. But, everybody gets to choose how they go about it. That’s part of the fun of it all.

 

[pepj]

Do they..?
3 each typically unless very small space...but the grief I get if I bring 2...and 5 strings to boot..!!!!