I don't think that Godin cut corners but of course top line models use more expensive materiels. All of them use select locally grown woods and there is a lot of "hands on" by the luthiers in the construction. My daughter owns a $300 Art & Luthrie that has a picture and signature of the builder on the label. It also has a great sound and a dreadnaught body but they make smaller ones with solid cedar tops that I love, but I do not own any Godins. They may be the best bang for the buck in the Godin line. but as I say that is a matter of personal taste. In any case they may be worth checking out.