[Scoutmaster]

Have you played a Gibson acoustic since Gibson acquired the Flatiron Mandolin factory in Bozeman, Montana? I personally don't consider Taylor to be in the same league as Martin, but a new Gibson J-45 or Southern Jumbo can hold its own against comparably priced Martins.

I don't mention the Hummingbird, Dove, or J-200 because they're maple guitars and you always go Gibson when you're looking for the sound of maple.

[vetvetdoug]

I play a Taylor 910 that handles as well as any Gibson SJ-200, Martin, or Collings. Purchased in 1996, its held its own and not deteriorated. I had an Ovation prior to the Taylor and it was fine but nowhere near as good as the Taylor. I sold an Everly Bros, a J-45 and an L-7 after I began playing the Taylor.

[MountainYankee]

I own a Hummingbird Pro made at the Montana facility. I love it. It is totally different than the Martins I have. I also have 1970 Gibson Southern Jumbo made in Kalamazoo that is all original and pretty cool sounding. I’ll match my Jumbo against an old Martin anyday.