Yeh, it'd sound more lively. But what I like about the J-45 is that the reduced string tension of the standard 24-3/4" scale neck means fewer broken strings (at least for me). I've only broken one in the two years I've had my J-45, and I play hard. If I take my D-28 with 25-1/2" scale length to a session I'm almost guaranteed to break at least one string a night.

And the dark body stain obliterating the quilt is apparent even in the photos. Not a real smooth move on Gibson's part. If I'm going to pay extra for more exotic wood, I at least want to be able to see it.

Bruce