I started with a cheap Ibanez beginner and after I determined that this was something that I was going to stick with I decided to upgrade to an acoustic electric. Not that I really need the electric but I figured there may come a day when I might play with others and need it.

Initially I was drawn to the Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500R but after visiting Guitar Center 3 days in a row I decided to go with the Taylor 114ce . It's at the low end of Taylor's offerings but all in all I think it had better sound quality, especially at the low end. I was fortunate and got it on sale for $780 but even at the regular price of $850, I think I'd still buy it over the Epi. This thing has a great sound and holds the tuning very well.

I did look at the Martin's but I couldn't find one that sounded as good in the same price range. There was one for about $1600 that sounded as good, maybe even better but I didn't want to spend that much.