Place I worked when I was dumb had a big OSHA board. At the bottom of a list of some safety tips the Boss wrote “Don’t stick your head in the toilet and flush it”. Sage advice. That’s why he was the boss.
Could be any instrument/member. Play with people at your level. Nothing wrong with trying, you never know if they would work out. But at least you found out about the work ethic early.
Should also fire the drummer for laughs.
Point about some clubs closing or fewer places booking makes sense too. That means more competition among bands for gigs. That likely means bands willing to play for low rate (beginner/intermediate players) will consume some of those slots. Basically it’s a mess but it will improve. Hang in there.
Thinking out loud so assume the below might be nonsense…
Given a 2 year virtual ban on gigs and rehearsals I bet a lot of pro level players had to find other means to feed themselves. And I bet among those who stuck it out are coming out of a long term absence of live group playing. Not saying...
The variation in magnets and the turns to me. I will admit I am too ear-ringy to tell the difference in the wire quality if there is an audible difference. Even with the cicadas in my head I can tell the difference in some pickup types and poles. Obviously this assumes parameters like position...
The Aetos is quiet and runs cool. It’s a little thicker than the Cioks that I’m using on my other boards but I have never found a reason to switch. Everything is 9V so if that works for you, great. And the convenience receptacle is a great feature. Overall it’s a great design. Everything Walrus...
First thing I’d do is message each of the builders. Lots of builders repair their pedals.
I know Wren & Cuff repairs pedals.
There are a couple amp shops who also repair pedals around here. Probably same as where you are.