[Jahmbie]

Seagulls have always impressed me with their quality and balanced sound for the price. In fact I'm impressed with all of the Godin/Seagull/A&L instruments I've played. They all sound great acoustically, which is what I judge them by first. For the sub-$1000 market, they would be my first choice.

Taylors are beautifully crafted instruments that have exceptional playability. I also agree that they seem overpriced in this marketplace, and their import line is definitely inferior to comparable North American produced instruments.

For a new instrument, if money were no object for me I'd go with a Collings or Larivee. Every one of their instruments I've played are absolutely extraordinary in terms of craftsmanship, tone, and playability. Not a bum in the lot.

FWIW I have a Korean-made Alvarez, mahogany top, that I bought for $100. The neck on it is a nice medium V and the width is no too narrow. It is not as punchy or bright as a spruce top, but it has a nice balance that is great for fingerstyle playing.