Very similar to the Takemine/Martin situation from the same period. I don't know the story in the depth you related, but essentially, Takemine out Martined Martin and the end result was better stuff from Martin as well. I have one of those Taks from that time and it's really more like an older Martin....they did a superior job on all counts. The Japanese gave several other American manufacturers in MANY products, like cars, a serious wake-up call about the same time as well.

Spaw