Well Catspaw, it is you and me that they will say "bullshit" about. I have played Tak's and Ovation's plugged in, and I find the Ovation superior. But they sound like shite unplugged. With regard to the sound of a standard guitar amplified, it is my opinion that when you use something on the order of the dual source (mic and transducer) and take a little time with it you can get a very good sound. I have watched Danny Doyle set his up and the sound was gorgeous. After a bit, it becomes very easy to go to just the right settings for various sounds. I run mine through a board and into the system. Is it the same as sitting in my music room and playing to myself? No, but it is a very good, very fat sound.

With regard to amps, I prefer the Crate Acoustic series. You can pick up a beaut for around $7 US and it will have a few effects which you can use performing.

Bottom line is that I prefer to perform for small, intimate groups unplugged. It is like heaven on earth. But most of the paying gigs have to be done plugged in, and if you take time, and talk to a good luthier, you can get a very good setup. I am fortunate to live about an hour from Elderly, so I had mine setup by the best. And I have been very satisfied.

All the best,

Mick