I haven't played a Lowdon or Larrivee that I disliked, which I can't say for Martin, Gibson, or Guild. I can say that I like big Lowdons and small Larrivees much more than small Lowdons and big Larrivees. On the other hand, I have decided that I don't like buying new steel string guitars any more - I'd go out and look for something at least five years old, but better 20-30 years old - better woods and no troubles with stability, as long as you know how to pick a good 'un.