If you can appreciate the difference playing the Core custom 24, I'd say go for it. Even if you aren't in a band, play it!!

Actually, I've read where working musicians will only use their really nice guitars in the studio or in rehearsals. They bring their beat up guitars on stage in case of a mishap - falls out of stands, hitting headstock into a wall or the drummer's gear, a dunk spilling beer on it, etc.

When you aren't playing it, certainly put it away to keep it nice and everything. Guitars were meant to be played!!

My new Les Paul is gorgeous with a street value comprable to your Core Custom 24...but I'm playing it!!