Russ, that's the kind of generous offer I've come to expect from you but I wouldn't dream of entrusting one your instruments to a 'third party', no matter whether it's cheap or expensive. You have helped a lot, in that I now understand how impossible it is to give any meaningful PURCHASING advice....,just too many variables (and questions I'm unable to answer). In fact, you've made me rethink the entire concept (all-purpose studio guitar). It came about as a result of unrelated visits by a couple of guys who turned out to be two of Atlanta's hottest jazz guitarist. In the course of showing them my studio, we decided to do a couple of tunes. All I had was a cheap solid body copy of something (Rock, for sure) and a new $500 Acoustic electric that I bought for my Grandson but then decided it was too good for him to bang on for two days and then relegate to his junk closet. Both guys chose the Acoustic Electric and both sounded amazing but I was embarrassed by what I had to offer in the way of an instrument. They were gracious, of course, but it made me want to immediately go out and get a 'decent' instrument for such occasions. However, after reading your post, I've reverted to "to hell with it". I'll spend the money on a cover for the motorhome while I wait for an empty hanger at the airport. Thanks.....I owe you .

Russ, in the words of that Lucky Peterson tune, you "truly are a friend".

chas