Chaz,
What gauge do you use for that high G? If you're breaking 8 gauge strings, maybe there's something wrong with the nut or saddle.
CJ,
How can I be a man when I'm half Australian?
Walter,
I'm glad you responded because when I posted this, I was thinking of professionals who play live a lot in smokey and humid conditions and go through a lot of strings in a year. I've heard that a lot of pros change strings after every gig. Apparently some do it because they want the same feel and sound for every show, others because the strings really get stretched and worn. Whatever the reason, changing strings after every show must get expensive. So I guess I was right that pros can cut the cost by replacing the unwound strings less often.
Do you use nickel or stainless for shows? I have to admit that I can't hear the difference on my guitars, so I use stainless because they are cheaper.