Thanks for the responses so far, all.
I'm in no particular rush and I know it will be a while before I'll be able to actually
go anywhere that has a strandberg for me to try. Another thing that has been on my mind is the fact that, most if not all, problems with a Parker requires sending out to a qualified tech. I like to do my own work on my guitars and I'm not especially looking forward to not being able to "work" on a Parker -- not a huge deal, but something I'm weighing in my process.
It seems, though, that everywhere I look, anyone who has
ever been a "Parker Guy" remains a "Parker Guy" forever. That's not to say they
only play Parkers for the rest of their life nor is it to say that a Parker is always their #1. However, it
is saying that, if ever they stray from their Parker, when they
do return, it then becomes their #1 again.
So now I have a decision to make, knowing that I've only ever tried a Parker and only for a few minutes:
Option 1 - The "Known" Unknown: Purchase a Parker and be as happy as can be and, one day in the distant future, try a Strandberg. At which point in time, if I realize I may like the Strandberg more, figure out how to obtain one.
Pros:
- I have actually played a Parker and know I like it, at least, at first blush.
Cons:
- Since there are very few vendors selling used Parkers, I'll likely be using Reverb. This means that the return policy is 7 days max to really put it through its paces. I will also be on the hook for return shipping.
- I'll always wonder, until I can try a Standberg, if I made the right decision.
Option 2 - The "Unknown" Unknown: Purchase a NEW Strandberg from a vendor with an amazing return policy (like Sweetwater). Then, either keep it outright, return it and search for a deal on the used market, or return it and continue waiting until I can try a Parker again.
Pros:
- I will have ample time to 'try out' the guitar and will be able to return it.
Cons:
- I'll always wonder, until I can play a Parker again, if I made the right decision.
Right now, I am leaning towards Option 1, the Parker option -- only because I know the Parker market is in a lull right now, and who knows how that market will shift over the next few years considering there is a fixed supply out there. Whereas, Strandbergs are in their prime and will continue to manufacture and innovate for years to come.
Would love to hear anyone's opinions/thoughts!