One size never fits all, I suppose. I like using my arranger for it's many benefits, and I like jamming with the guys for a different sort of fun.

For me they provide different ways of enjoying and producing my music, whether for fun or profit.

Unfortunately there are those with huge talent (and equally huge egos) that end up being jerks and divas, and I've been lucky to work with some fine talent that never allowed their success and/or talent to go to their heads (I suppose there must have had to be room for it).

My arranger never played for free...I just paid it's wages for being my gig partner up front when I bought it.

To me, it was worth every bit.

Ian