John, I used to play/practice quite a lot as a kid and teenager, until a hand injury (left hand, pinky finger), received in an altercation with another chap with a rather large knife, severely reduced my ability to play barre chords, and I focused solely on keyboard from then on. I was about 17 years old when it happened. That's why I can relate so well to our Captain Russ's injury. Up till that point, I was doing quite well, and was using an old second hand Fender nameless Esquire (actually called a "Nocaster") which I (now regretfully) sold to a collector in Newfoundland.

I know in my head, what a guitar is supposed to sound like (if that makes any sense), and I try and transfer the feel and phrasing to the keys...sometimes I'm more successful than others.

The Tyros4's SA guitars are beautifully expressive, especially the SA Jazz Clean, and I often use this sound for country tunes (with some modifications to effects etc.)...that's probably the influence of the great Jazz guitar players I listen to, but also because I'm a Country fan as well, and Chet Atkins is/was one of my heroes.

One of the guys I jam with is a very accomplished Country player (uses a Tele and Strat), and we often talk about how to set up effects and such, and again, I try to transfer these suggestions to my guitar sounds...it really helps getting advice from an actual player.

So (FINALLY!), as far as my actual guitar playing level? Probably a little better than a decent beginner, although I know where the notes are on the neck, but my perception and transfer to the keyboard, seems highly influenced by the master guitar players I listen to with a lot of interest and respect.

How about you John? I see your avatar has you holding a guitar...is that your primary instrument, with keyboard as secondary?

Ian