While I do not disagree with Guest.Jerry above (a good player can transcend their instrument), I believe there is room for both angles - one can listen to the player's abilities, and also listen to the instrument itself for the sound it can produce. Some great instruments out there, but often what is affordable to the top players is not necessarily affordable to the amateur (unless they sell a kidney or several...) - but often educational to listen to, to get a feel for what make, body shape and style, and materials used can produce a sound that grabs you...