I completely agree with the above comments as to the personal nature of guitars. I've had some that were love at first play and others that i just couldn't make friends with..regardless of cost or brand. That said you owe it to your other half to check out Larrivee. Everyone i've played or heard is killer while i've walked away from a lot of others, including martins and gibsons that are out of your price range, totally unimpressed.
Guitar playing audiophiles, Martin or Taylor?
My "other half" is exploring the stress releiving effects of playing acoustic guitar. She's a great woman! She actually convinced me to buy a pair of Rowland model 9 monos w bps, instead of a boat. Thats my girl! Anyway, shes been playing for 1.5 yrs. Its a toss up between Martin ???? Koa wood, Taylor 314ce, Takamini GS330s, and a Tocoma???sound hole on top!!! All these models can be had "used" for around 900.00 All replys welcome, thanks Scot