I'v been before a live audience guitar close to 50 years. During that time, I've owned some very cheap (Marco Polo??, Kent, Silvertone) and very expensive (Martin, Taylor, Maton) guitars. I've everlastingly wanted a Takamine and, after reading a few reviews (and read-owing to my fiscal proclamation), I purchased this EG363SC.At first I planning there was a touch wrong with it since I couldn't feel the strings when I pressed them onto the fretboard. The proceedings is that good!! I was making plans to take it in for a setup, but I honestly don't see the need! The tone is different than the Maton, Martin and Taylor - not best or worse - different in a good sense. It is brighter than the Maton, yet full. Not as commanding as the Martin, yet exciting. Not as warm as the Taylor, yet reassuring.This is I don't know the finest instrument I've ever owned. I had sweet much retired from before a live audience until I bought this guitar. I have since cut a co...