a. Why not get piano lessons? If you are more interested in the technical fun of messing with software, this approach makes sense, sure. But if you're interested in sight-reading, it seems a bit wild. Sight-reading involves ear training, chunking patterns, etc etc.
"Gear Acquisition Syndrome", a common meme particularly among online musician communities around the desire for more gear whether or not you actually need it just to have it
I have considered lessons but I didn't like the prospect of searching for a teacher. This particular piece of practice is only one part of my larger music-making activity. I make mostly electronic music using Ableton Live and a Push 2. I play guitar with enough proficiency that I don't feel like I need lessons. I started this sight reading excercise to access the sheet music I have and I'm using that just fine to learn pieces. So I guess I don't feel any particular frustration in my learning right now that would push me to ask for help. The main challenge I face in my music making is finding longer stretches of time to work on my songs.
b. What does GAS mean?