On my vintage Martin 12 string I use a Fishman under saddle pick up.(approx.$150 U.S., plus $65 for intstallation) I really love the natural sounding results I get. I also use a Duncan sound-hole pickup in my 6 with SM 57 mike, but I think I'll put a Fishman in it as soon as funds become available.

I have tried Ovations and just can't get use to the "feel", they always slide off of my lap. I have also heard some that were pretty bad sounding but it could have been the PA mix. Any Takamine I've heard has sounded decent...I think they might use Fishman for the electronics but i'm not sure.

I always choose to play through the PA rather than a guitar amp but hey...Mick I'll take one of those $7 Crate amps if you have any...

O'hanrahan