If you are re-learning to play after 30 years off, the Ovation will be just fine for a few years. As usual, I've heard great 12s made by many manufacturers. When a pair of jeans fit you the way you want, them's good jeans.

(Strings do make a difference, but not all that much of a difference, assuming they are the correct gauge for the style you play. If strings made that much of a difference, they'd be the answer folks are looking for, but they alone ain't the answer.)

I had an Ovation (six string) for about a week and I gave it away. Wasn't for me. I have also met players who swear by them. Good guitars are good guitars. Great guitars are rare, and people will let you know their favourites. BUT, one man's cordon bleu is another man's gruel. It has always been thus.

Best wishes to you.