Two of the best guitars I've ever heard were my brothers 60's era B45-12 { those 12-strings were monsters } and a good friends early 60's J-45. I would love to own either of them. I've heard many J-45's that were truly wonderful. Having said that - I tend to find a lot more Martin's that I would want to spend money on and own than Gibsons. Thats especially true of the modern models. I'd hate to think that I was a snob for any brand. It's just a matter of taste. Of course when I hit the lottery I'll get a Santa Cruz, a Collings, an Olsen, another Lowden............