Áine and I have a bit of familiarity with Taylors, seeing as we own two (a 710 and an 815ce) and I did a bit of research before parting with that nice chunk 'o change, so I'll see if my 2 cents buys you anything.

First off -- That 615ce is probably a decent price at less than $1,800 (assuming it really is in mint condition). You're not going to be able to get a new one for less than $2,100 (give or take a C-note).

One thing to keep in mind with this particular guitar, is that it is maple back and sides; which means it will be much brighter sounding than one made of rosewood (700 and 800 series) or mahagony (500 series).

This might be just to your liking; but, if you prefer a darker, fuller sound, you might be disappointed. (All a matter of taste, don't you know).

Now, I'm obviously a big Taylor fan; even though Taylor-bashing seems to be very fashionable, particularly amongst the Martin camp. Now, if Martin would ship their guitars with a decent setup, I might give them the time of day (Ahh it's gettin warm now! Save me TGG, my love!).

That being said -- proceed with caution. I mean, unless you cashed in on your dotcom before the crash, $2k is an investment you want to put some thought into.

Do some research at the Taylor website. Then, check out Martin, Larrivée, Gibson, and any others in the same general ballpark money-wise that strike your fancy.

Then try to play as many as you can get your hands on. Guitar Center carries a good selection of Larrivées, Taylors, Martins and Gibsons (Just don't buy one there, you'll pay way too much.)

In general, a guitar in the $1,500 - $2,000 range is going to be a fine instrument, no matter whose name is on it. It really comes down to which one fits YOU best. It's worth the extra time finding out.

And really, that's half the fun of a good GAS attack!

(PM me if you have questions)

-- Dear Hubby