I had a wonderful maple Larrivee. If I could have afforded to own two expensive guitars at the same time, I'd still have it. Not only was it stunning to look at -- the maple had gone to that honey/amber color and it had Jean Larrivee's old classical soundhole rosette -- but it had the ability to cut through the din of an ensemble much better than most big guitars I've played in those circumstances. I was listening to the wrong advice when I traded it. I've never felt this kind of remorse about another instrument lost.

I have a friend with a Martin custom D-60-something that's flamed maple back and sides. It has a richness and clarity that is simply wonderful. Beautiful to look at too with tortoise bindings.

My mando is maple as well, and a darn shame I can't figure out a way to play it backwards. That stunning back is hidden from view while being played.