Looking for input

[Renee Labordus]

Primarily a classical guitar player, I am seriously considering deviating into playing steel string acoustic guitar. I have build 4 KMG kits for other people. All who have been very satisfied with the end product. For myself I would probably buy one. I have been comparing Martins vs. Taylors. What other brands are out there worth considering? I will play it primarily finger style. My budget is around 1,000/1,200 give or take.
What about luthier build?

Thanks in advance.

[ken cierp]

First I'll go out on a limb and state that a KMG kit properly constructed will be a far superior guitar versus a Martin or Taylor in the $1000 to $1200 price range --- materials alone are more premium.

Not sure you would be able to find a Luthier build in that price range and if you did I'd be skeptical. Not sure what forum members Tim Benware or Dave Bagwill are selling theirs for ( I know that pricing is very reasonable) -- but certainly a few others on this forum are an exceptions to the rule.

Now again, only considering price range --- if I were you I'd be looking a Blueridge, Eastman and a few of the other very fine imports available today. I know these two brands offer quality and features at about 1/2 or less than the cost of the the big boys.

Or --- like indicated above build your own.

[Herman]

Renee, asking this on a builders forum will probably give you obvious answers.
You made 4, so what keeps you from making your own? With patience and common sense I bet you can make a satisfying guitar for yourself.
FWIW: Personally I find 1000-2000 $ guitars in stores often disappointing, compared with a 700 buck selfmade good one.

2ct Herman

[John J]

I have a Martin and a Taylor. They both play wonderfully. Or they did when I last played them. Which has been awhile. I would much rather play what I have built. There's a deeper connection to the instrument when you are the one to bring it to life. Right now my favorite size is a Martin style 00. Very comfortable to play. Good luck with your decision.

[Renee Labordus]

Thank you gentlemen. In my heart I know you guys are right of course. And I will most likely go the building route.
I will say this tho. I thoroughly enjoy the building part. It is the finishing part I dread. As Herman said, lots of patience and common sense.

[Tim Benware]

It is the finishing part I dread.

You can always ship it off to have someone finish it for you. That way you get to build, have a nice finish and save money too.

[John Parchem]

I would suggest you build your own if you are able. I mostly play classical guitars (albeit poorly) but I do play steel string a lot as well. Building my own guitars my classical neck is a bit narrower than traditional and my steel string necks have more of a classical guitar neck shape. I find it easier to go back and forth. If you built 4 guitars already go ahead and build a fifth for yourself.

I would also second Ken's observation that you will get better materials in a kit from him.