Hi! This is great timing. I came here yesterday to ask very much the same questions as Rosebrook. I am not quite the beginner but self-taught so who knows. I am looking to move up to a better instrument but I also live in a rural area and so in the same predicament as Rosebrook.

My suggestion to Rosebrook would be to start out with an extended range instrument. I began with a "schlocky" 12/11 as I didn't want to put a lot of money into an instrument until I knew I was going to be able to play it. I'm looking to move up to a better instrument now, not so much because of the quality of the instrument but because I find myself wanting those low notes that you don't have on a 12/11.

I was happy to hear you mention Cloud Nine as that is one that I'm considering. You said that sound types of various makers differ. Could you describe the character of the Cloud Nines? I'm looking for something middle of the road on sustain...not too "bright". With all the choices of woods, what would you recommend to get a sound more full than bright...soundboard, rails, bridges?

Do you have any opinion on black lacquer soundboards? Do you think they make that much difference to the average player? I'm not a performer....just play for myself.

Thanks! Melanie