DougR,

I prefer the Seagull to the Larivee, but both are worthy,

Peter T,

I've heard this before about every kind of guitar, proving that even among the same model there can be duds. My advice above works, make sure there's decent strings, take a pro with you or get advice which isn't partisan, and check those things like intonation. Lastly, even a dud can be improved somewhat by a good luthier who can change and better such things as the nut, saddle, tuners, intonation, neck set, bracing, bridge and pins, etc. I once bought a guitar which was very much better than two identical ones hanging beside it, and was happy with it for years.

Peace, Mooh.