Art & Lutherie is another of those many LaSiDo brand names. Some of the better ones are obviously good, judging from the affection many knowledgables guitaristas have for them, but I think you have to try many out to find that special one. As noted, their quality control is maybe not all that great, they focus on hihg-production and affordability.

Oskar Graf (see thread link in the list at the top thar) is every bit the luthier Laskin is (some say better) and his instruments are several thousand less (they don't have the decorative style of the Laskins). You oughtta come to Blue Skies Festival and meet him (it's at his property near Sharbot Lake, 90 minutes west of Ottawa, August long weekend, drop me a PM for more info). He makes a fine classical too--and I am lucky enough to be able to call on him when I have a guitar emergency.

Beneteaus are excellent value, he's been around for a long time and his instruments have gained a lot in value.

There's also a guy named Mayhew whose instruments have innovative, very artful body shapes. I've tried a few and haven't found them quite right for me, but their quality is obvious at a glance and the Ottawa Folklore Centre sells them for $1500-1800 which strikes me as a good deal.   

The 12th Fret vintage page is updated with slatheringly gorgeous expensive new guitars EVERY DAY. Except today. Maybe you should go check out that parlour guitar at the top of the page--if a rebuilt vintage strikes your fancy.

Of course, if you want to stay close to your budget, I recommend a field trip to Rick Fieldings basement--never know what you'll find there!

W-O
so many guitars
so little money
such a short life