I need some guidance. I haven't played in nearly 30 years, but I've decided to get back to it as a hobby. Because it's a hobby, I don't want to spend a fortune. I'm trying to find a North American made guitar for $500. I really like the look and sound of some of the Seagull guitars. I don't have big hands so their wide neck is a bit uncomfortable for me. Their "slim" model (1.72" nut) works better for me. I also prefer a slightly smaller body than a dreadnought and Seagull doesn't make a slim neck folk sized guitar, but Simon and Patrick does. Norman also makes a folk sized guitar (B20 Folk) but I can't determine the nut width anywhere online.

Does anyone have any intimate knowledge of these Godin brands? Are the S&P bodies the same as the Seagulls? They have the exact same dimensions, but I don't know if they're built the same. To help narrow the field, in what order would these models stack up by price:

Seagull Coastline Cedar Folk ($400 USD - like the looks but too wide)
Simon and Patrick Woodland Folk Cedar
Simon and Patrick Showcase Folk Rosewood
Norman B20 Folk (nut width?) -- not a single dealer listed within 200 miles!

In which order would you put the quality or are they all about the same?

I don't need any electronics. I'd like a non-cutaway with solid cedar or spruce top and I'm no fan of the sunburst finishes.

Then there's the Big Baby Taylor ($450 USD). It sounds good, "fits" me, but it sure is plain looking.

Does anyone have any advice for buying any of the Godins online? I can't believe how hard it is to find anything but Seagulls. Much as I'd love to play before buying, if I can't find a local dealer and if the Seagulls are indicitive of the S&P and Norman guitars, I might take a chance on a sight unseen purchase.

Thanks!