So I can't see what the problem is. The Custom you have looks nice. Black Customs must rate pretty high in the 'cool as ferk' guitar list. As I say I have 3 LP's. 2002 lightburst 56 gold top RI 1980 CSB Custom. I bought them because when I was growing up (chance would be a fine thing) my guitar heros played them, and I thought they were the beez'neez. I have never regreted buying them one bit, and get great joy out of owning and playing them. Would I buy another one? I doubt it, it would need to be "cheap as chips" before I even considered it. Over the years I have come to realise there are as good as, if not better than, guitars out there for the money. As you say 3K for a RI is taking the pith. For all you guys out looking for a bargain take a look at 'Robin' guitars and tell me they are not as nice/cool as gibbos. Sorry if I have ranted a bit.