That's Bull, Durham (couldn't resist that). I play an older Lowden and get plenty of volume out of it. Is your guitar new ? If so it may take awhile to open up. Do you use any sound reinforcement? I have a Seymour Duncan SA2 installed in it which gives it a very natural sound (I also use a sound hole cover) but I agree with McMoo, for lower volume situations I much prefer playing through a good mic. If you're just playing it acoustically in a group setting stringing it heavier will probably help but you might want to check with Lowden before you go too heavy. Good luck with your new Lowden, mine's been a lovely instrument. LU