Hi Mick, Bigpat here. I have just done the same thing, went out with some idea of buying a Martin, but as a few people have said go to a good shop, and have a look and listen to as many guitars as possible. I listened to a few martins and some Taylors, and a few more. I ended coming home with a taylor, which sounds quite good. and all I did was listen to the guitars, and picked the one with the best sound, I could afford. I went to Coda's in Stevenage. have a look at there website, they do a good range of top end guitars. might even run you out there if you want. or get kay to take you. Hopefully see you at knoockers.