Cat,

I'm disappointed that I sounded like an Ovation rep. I'm not. I dislike them as much as I dislike burdocks in my beard. They are uncomfortable to hold. The round back puts the body and neck in an unnatural twist that nearly ensures tendonitis of the left wrist. BUT.... They are hard to kill. I find their sound just north of marginal. I play an Elite in the band I'm in. Why? Because I won't ruin my Guild in bars and the Ovation was a gift from a friend. It also has otherwise excellent action . If I had the money, I'd buy a Tak or Yamaha or any other accoustic electric with a flat back that fit the physical requirements of my ruined fingers. Ultra high wood and workmanship quality in electrified instuments isn't neccessary to getting a playable amplified sound. You only need a straight neck, good intonation, and a decent pickup. My brother gary who is just now beginning to post to this forum has some great ideas on just this issue. I'm sure he will hit this thread.

Regards to all

Don