Hello to all. First, I'd like to say thanks for all the great information that can be learned from this site. I've been browsing for a while and finally took the plunge.
After a long debate between a Taylor 410ce, Martin D or DC series, Larrivee LV or D series and a Seagull Peppino D'Agostino, I finally bought my first Martin (all wood, DC-16GTE). I took the Martin plunge based on a recent trip to my local music store. I tried several different brands (not including Larrivee because no one in town carries them), and just loved the sound of the Martins. Especially the all wood models.
Being a long time fan of Takamine and the owner of a 1996 Santa Fe PSF-15C currently, I'm amazed at the difference in sound between the two, not to mention the playability of the Martin. Given that my Takamine is a Cedar top with Rosewood back and sides versus Martins Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, this would surely attribute to the sound difference. I never knew what I was missing. The Takamine does has sentimental value to me because as it was my first 'real' guitar, or at least in my eyes. It was also a gift from my father. I'm not sure I'll ever part with it. I learned to play on an old, inexpensive Yamaha.
I can't help but wonder how the Larrivees play and sound. That may always be in the back of my mind. It's too bad that I didn't have the chance to get my hands on one in my search. However, I'm truly excited about the Martin. I'm not sure I could be any happier but again, I don't know what I'm missing. The Martin I found is a 2005 with about 2 play hours on it, mint with case and all paperwork from an individual. I got it for exactly half the music store/online vendor price for virtually a brand new guitar.
Based on my purchase, can someone put to rest my inquisitiveness about Larrivees? I just can't get the below video out of my head. It's an example of a Taylor and Larrivee played together. I love the fullness and sound of that old Larrivee (from what I can tell), although it's very close to having a hole worn in it. It's also my favorite contemporary Christian band (Needtobreathe). The Taylor also sounds absolutely amazing although I'm not sure which one it is (---ce).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CozhYXk5N1I
Thanks for the insight.