Maybe gatekeeping is a poor method to encourage beginners in your hobby? Perhaps it might be better to encourage them simply to avoid the worst quality cheapos. It’s nearly always better to learn on equipment that isn’t garbage. It cuts down on waste, and at least you can sell it if the hobby doesn’t work out.
And at least you won’t waste more money on having to upgrade later when you’re deemed ready. I’d rather learn on equipment I’m going to use for years than on something shit and have to upgrade shortly after.
Maybe gatekeeping is a poor method to encourage beginners in your hobby? Perhaps it might be better to encourage them simply to avoid the worst quality cheapos. It’s nearly always better to learn on equipment that isn’t garbage. It cuts down on waste, and at least you can sell it if the hobby doesn’t work out.
And at least you won’t waste more money on having to upgrade later when you’re deemed ready. I’d rather learn on equipment I’m going to use for years than on something shit and have to upgrade shortly after.