Sandy, why don't you offer spaw a complimentary pick to drop in the soundhole. Make it clear to him that he is only allowed to drop it in and not to drop it out of the soundhole.

Roger, when there are small stores that really offer something I would certainly patronize them. After all, for the extra money, you get the benefit of their knowledge and experience passed on to you. Even when you don't buy. Sydney seems to have very few stores that specialize in fretted instruments (as opposed to being music stores with a guitar department). There is only one that I like. He really does specialize in guitars and sells keyboards, computer hard and software, etc. to support his "good guitar" room upstairs. I always go to him first. His guitar prices are not bad compared to the large stores; but he charges somewhat more for strings and accessories. I still go there. Buying strings is a good excuse to say hello and talk to him and some of his better assistants. Getting on track. He has this beautiful small-bodied Taylor. I can't remember its name--its not a baby--it is an "0" shaped guitar. It is one of the nicest guitars I have ever seen. But it sounds blah. It doesn't come anywhere near my small-bodied Maton with laminated sides and back.

Murray