no question, there are some less expensive builds that just seem to come together right. resonant top, fantastic neck, projection, and also, there are those high end builds that don't always live up to the reputation that is very well earned over, what is it? 180 some odd years? She looks like a beauty! I know I've played Martin's and Taylors that I wouldn't spend a 100 bucks on, unless it was to flip it, but then I've also played guitars by those makers that were otherworldly....part of the mystique of solid wood handmade tools.....they have there own personality, and they evolve in their own environment. Two different solid wood acoustics of the same vintage and the same model that have lived their lives in two different places are likely to sound different. Just the way it is.
Congrats on the S&L.
"It's never too late to be what you might have been" - Eliot
Guilars: '02 Heritage H-535 ASB; '04 Larrivée LV-03 w/Fishman Blend; '95 Washburn/Bourgeios D-55SW Cherokee
Amphs: Boogie DC-2; DVM/BYOC Tweed Champlifier; Marshall AS50D
Currently on Board: Ditto Looper; Boss TU-2; EB VP Jr; crybaby; DVM Spring Fever; DVM Mini Klone, Brena Effects Cali-Tremor tremolo; Strymon El Capistan