I think that most of the US virtuoso's are making their money doing a variety of work. I couldn't imagine any of them making much money of their CD sales. Maybe back in the day they made some nice coin, but these days I don't think so.

Here's where they are probably making the money:
1. Open any guitar magazine: Endorsements.
2. While you have the magazine open: Authoring Columns.
3. Instructional videos
4. Touring - they can make around 10k a night playing a modest size club.
5. Studio work / Soundtracks

There are so many ways they can make the bling-bling.

Wouldn't this be a concept: Amazing playing and mainstream (that means your girlfriend/mom likes them) Pop/Rock success. WOW. oh wait....Eddie Van Halen did this, and so did Randy....