This is one time of year where it's esp easily to get lost in thought, thinking about journeys...late (cold) night reflection.
Upon joining ILF I think my stash was 30 pedals, which is about where I am 5 years later. Quite a few changes of personnel came along the way; 7 of the "keepers" I had (then) are still around.
Gear has been like lab equipment, while the internet provides a vast knowledge base of information (and misinformation) to reference. Sites like ILF especially have been useful in providing examples of solutions which have worked for others in some capacity, and I appreciate the variation in approach. You don't have to look far to find a new object of affection or source of inspiration, even just admiring the aesthetics of well designed and arranged equipment... is satisfying to me.
My general methodology for pedals has been to streamline and consolidate functionality while looking to upgrade practicality and user experience.
Instead of owning 3 similar-yet-different dirt boxes in the $100-150 range I generally prefer 1 in the 300-450 range. Those are the pedals I want for studio play. The less expensive, yet road-proven stuff at the lower range is essential for other reasons. My breakdown, after considerable trading in and up, splits about 2:1 higher:lower cost solutions. Ultimately I'd like more of the lower-cost stuff to come closer to the results I get (satisfaction-wise) with the higher-cost options...an entirely original lamentation, I know
TL;DR embracing limitations of what's available (in a preferred device, ideally) to find their workaround is where things tend to get interesting, FME
