I recently purchased a new Alvarez cutaway twelve after playing the corresponding Martins,Taks,Ovations and Yamahas.Atleast in the under $1000 price range,the Martins didn't hold a candle.The so-called "eco-friendly" laminates that they are using were distinctly less resonant,especially in the treble,and if you don't want it to ring, why buy a 12? Could it be that (gasp) some Martin products are over-rated?

LEJ (the sacreligious)