I think consistently, Taylor steel string guitars over the greatest level of playability right off the shop floor. Some Martins are very good in this regard- and to my hands-, some are not, with a kind of chunky clublike feel to the neck (also the way some folks prefer them, the vintage feel. To my small fumbling hands, it's too much of a challenge.) There are some acoustic-electrics that have a very electric-feeling neck, but overall, they do not sound that great unplugged. I'm sure there are exceptions. Also some of the older Gibsons, like the LG-series from the 50's/60's, has a short scale and if the neck is straight, incredible action. And because of the shorter scale it's easier to fret. These make a nice, affordable little blues guitar. And NEVER underestimate the value of a good setup for your guitar- it can completely change the nature of the beast.

I never heard of Haruo. Are these imported into the states?

jpc