I don't really like the look of the original V with the huge pickguard and natural wood finish.. There was just something about this one that really got me.. if it didn't have the binding, there's no way I would have gotten it.. or a pickguard etc.. I just like the way THIS particular model looks.. and, as I'm mentioned, I REALLY don't like black guitars, although this one and the last Jackson Rhoads model (black/lime green bevels) are just gorgeous..
But, I doubt I play the Gibson onstage, unless i come up with a way to protect the finish from all the jewelry and belts and stuff I wear.. I normally have several bracelets on and, rightnow, I put a sweat band over them to protect the finish.. as I've mentioned, I have to repaint my favorite stage guitar (white Jackson) every 3-4 years as the paint just gets CRUSHED in no time.. So, I'd hafta figure out a way to protect both black guitars in order to play them onstage..
..and unless I finish my tunes and get them recorded and put together a live band to play them live, I'll never be onstage again.. There are a lot of cons to living in a small town with few musicians - and the few there are mostly play country..
Friendship is like peeing your pants.. Everybody can see it, but only you can feel the warmth..