I think Dean acoustic instruments are one of the best buys around. They sound as good as and look much better than anything in their price range. I have a Dean resonator guitar that, while far from a real Dobro or National, is a great guitar for the money. I bought my daughter a Dean Exotica a couple of years ago that she adores. I played every mid-priced guitar in the store when I bought it and it definitely had the best sound, even with its laminated top. Nice electronics too, if you play plugged in.

Bruce