She is not a shopaholic, buying for the sake of spending money and opening boxes. Neither am I when it comes to buying musical gear or woodworking tools. I admit to having gear and SW I have not plumbed the depths of, but for me though (as well as the wife's stuff) its all about the long term focus. Its just something I do everyday, literally. I think if I was buying gear in a way that was as uncontrollable as a gambling problem at a casino then I think I would have an issue.
An interesting thing for me recently has been coming up with solutions to getting things done with some of my current gear. I have enjoyed the realization that I am getting to know some of my kit in ways that actually prevent me from spending money. Finding work arounds is very gratifying. However, it will not stop me from next year replacing perfectly good working bits of musical kit for fairly minor reasons. I will upgrade, replace and add without hesitation (but within budget of course).
I guess what I am trying to say is that there is a happy balance to strike with GAS. I don't think there is anything wrong with regular acquisitions on a sustained long term basis, even if it doubles up on things you already have. But you have to have some sort of frame work in place to filter the purchases, which is what a lot of Tarekith's post is about anyway. I am comfortable with my rationale, and everyone owes it to themselves to shape their own framework, if for nothing else but to avoid irrational guilt.
Cheers.
) I only need the great room at this place. Now, wtih my ableton + my workflow, nothing can be better 