Not sure what to make of this statement.

[Wambemando]

I've recently started working with a drummer that "brought me in" to his group of two guitarists.
At the second jam, I was talking instruments with one of the guitarists, who has an affinity for 70s Asian knockoffs (lawsuit guitars, etc.). That's cool - I'm not a gear snob. When I started talking modestly about my collection (which he already hinted at having an American bias), this guy comes out with "Well, you know people who buy expensive instruments are compensating for their lack of ability", with a smirk on his face.
I was so amazed by his statement that I encouraged him to repeat it again... and he did! I played it off like it didn't bother me but it seemed RIDICULOUSLY passive-aggressive, and honestly, the drummer and I are playing at a higher level.
I mentioned a few reasons why I agree and disagree with what he said, but it still came across as a personal attack in the end.
I'm not worried about losing the drummer because he said he's been looking for a bassist like me for years.
I guess I'm kinda venting, but I'm on the fence with this guitarist now after his barbed statements. Very odd.
Have you run into anything similar?

 

[ArtechnikA]

Trolls are not just an Internet phenomenon...
Some can keep it under control, and some can't.
My usual response to this kind of outrageous baiting is 'I'm glad there's choices.' If it escalates much beyond that, it might just not be the right project for someone...

 

[4SG]

 

[Wambemando]

Trolls are not just an Internet phenomenon...

Thanks for reminding me.
Words of wisdom for sure!

 

[Killing Floor]

Not sure I can draw a line between ability+effort and cost of an instrument.

Blow it off for now.

Or find a super cheap beater and way overplay and tell him you can’t play it for some passive aggressive fun.

 

[Wambemando]

Not sure I can draw a line between ability+effort and cost of an instrument.

Blow it off for now.

Or find a super cheap beater and way overplay and tell him you can’t play it for some passive aggressive fun.

You're my hero.
This is the way.

 

[Lo-E]

He’s just firing for effect. Insecure BS. Blow it off. Don’t feed the troll.

If it continues, take the drummer with you and find a better fit.

 

[Bunk McNulty]

"Well, you know people who buy expensive instruments are compensating for their lack of ability",

Just agree with him. Let your playing do the talking.

 

[Wambemando]

There are some heavy hitters in this thread, and I greatly appreciate the advice!

 

[Richard Lindsey]

"Oh yeah, that's a common misconception."

 

[Wambemando]

"Oh yeah, that's a common misconception."

LOLOLOLOL

 

[JRA]

Have you run into anything similar?

sure, who hasn't?

him:
"Well, you know people who buy expensive instruments are compensating for their lack of ability", with a smirk on his face.

me:
"if you're saying that 'you don't need to spend a lot of money just to wank', i couldn't agree more," with a .

 

[dalkowski]

As has been said, he's projecting insecurity, marking his turf, etc. maybe even thinking he's being clever and down to fit in with "the hang." Just play and if that doesn't shut him up you'll have to make a decision about how much you can bear.

 

[AGCurry]

Him: "People who buy expensive instruments are compensating for their lack of ability."

Me: "Yeah ... I also have a tiny p****s."

 

[Thumpin6string]

Some people were just born azzholes.

 

[Jefenator]

Man, if I'd been questing for a decent bass player for years and finally found one, the LAST thing on my mind would be to hound the guy away then hold out for someone who has a Tokai.

 

[creaturegods]

"Huh, that must be specific to guitarists. If you ask me, 6 strings seems a little excessive, too. A skilled musician gets the job done with 4 (or 5)."

 

[Wanker_Joe]

Last time somebody said something like that to me, I just owned it. "Yes, that's exactly why I buy expensive instruments", and left it at that. Left them mostly speechless afterwards.

 

[superheavyfunk]

I don’t know your age or experience with bands but imo, if a small Barb like that is enough to put you off, you might be in for a hard time in the industry overall.

 

[Zooberwerx]

I just say “Man, I’m loaded…I can afford the good stuff”. I have a dry sense of humor and presentation so it’s not challenged and re-sets the character of the dialogue.

Riis