I haven't read this thread so I apologize if I am repeating.... Seagull from La Belle Province... Quebec, Canada. I don't know much about guitars, but I know a few who do (they own $2000 to $4000 strings and play professionally), and they have tried my el cheapo ($500 suggested retail) Seagull and say it is the best "starter buy" they have ever seen. And, no, they weren't just being polite.