I've enjoyed reading this thread. I've been playing guitar and many other stringed instruments for 40 years. I've owned and own a few brands, and played more. I play semi-professional. I don't know it all, and I haven't heard your guitar. But here are some principles I believe: I love my Takamine F model 6 and 12 strings, purchased in past 12 years for $750 to $950 and my Alvarez Professional model purchased for less than $400. 2 of these were slightly used. These guitars have solid tops and backs and even then, I changed the action on 2 of the 3. I've played Martins, Seagulls and many others, and these sound and play as well as any. I've heard some Martins and some other top-name guitars that didn't sound good to me. Sound is subjective though. Some guitars have nice sparkle and no low end. Some have lots of overtone. Sounds vary. That's why you can never have too many "good-sounding" instruments. HOWEVER, the plywood top models from these companies rarely or never sound as good, and don't usually play as well either. I agree with those who have noted the positive evolution of less expensive instruments. If you able to set up your own instruments, you can find some good sounding wood on guitars, mandolins, octave mandolins, banjos, etc. On Fenders: Electric fenders are GREAT, but I've never personally played or heard an acoustic Fender that I liked. - Randy