Which guitar do YOU prefer?

Question:

Which guitar do YOU prefer?

Between a Taylor acoustic, Martin Acoustic, Breedlove Acoustic, Seagull 12 string acoustic, or any really? I want a good one for around 600-800 dollars, I really like the Taylor sound, but I keep hearing different opinions on different guitars. It doesn't matter which version or model they are, I'm just interested.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Alvarez MD-80. best guitar I've ever played...but mine is significantly aged. Look, I like Ovation. And I respect those who would rather start a fire with one than play it. It's a matter of personal taste--does the guitar sound like you want and does it behave (e.g., no neck warping, no going out of tune when you touch it, etc.).

I recommend that guitar shoppers play a lot of models in the store (most stores are happy to let you do that) and pick out several that feel good and sound fairly right. Keep in mind that with acoustics, there is a little variability in construction--the same model/make might give you one guitar that's "lucky" to have exceptional wood grain, fortuitious gluing, or whatever to produce a super tone, and another that is rather dull.

When you have picked out several specific guitars that you think will meet your desires, have a friend or the sales clerk play the same tunes on each of them while you keep your back turned. This blind listening test should enable you to pick the final choice based entirely on sound--which is the main thing you want. Out of those I would pick the Martin acoustic.

But I would prefer a Fender, a Gibson or an Ibanez. Are they made of real wood or it's just plywood? Whatever brand you choose, choose the one made with real wood! I appreciate Taylor guitars, but prefer the Martin above all. The only Martin costing around $900 would be the D-16 dreadnought. My HD-35 retailed at $3,500--to give you an idea about prices.

Taylors are fine instruments and their necks are found to be most desired by many guitarists. Play them all and then make up your mind. Well - Martin's got the name, but they ain't hand made anymore.

I reckon I'd like to hear more of Seagull from that list above.

Never thought that much of Taylors.

For me, I like Alvarezes Takamine are very good guitars the sound is very full and it's an awesome guitar, I don't have one myself but everytime I go to the music store thats the first one i go to... I've played a few Taylors and liked them. Have never tried a Breedlove but I've heard good things about them. I've really liked the sound of every Martin I've played.

Having said all that, I play a 1977 Guild D-35 dreadnaught that I bought new when I was in college. I love it.

For the price range you're looking at spending, you *might* be able to find one of Taylor's or Breedlove's low-end instruments. There are some online dealers that have them in that price range, but if I were you, I wouldn't spend that kind of money on an instrument without trying it out in person first.

Martins are going to cost you at least $1,500 - 2,000 -- or more, some a LOT more -- depending on the model. Choose the one that feels and sounds the best in your hands. That is the most important criteria for choosing an instrument! Godin makes great guitars.