I can't comment on Gibson, but I can comment on Martin.
First of all the 16 series Martins are an exceptional value. A lot of guitar for the money. Something like the 000-16 GT. I previously owned a 00016 SRGT (slot head 12 fret) which was exceptional. That was the guitar I went to once I "moved up" from a beginner instrument. Then, I moved up to a Martin 00-18V custom (My Favorite Guitars). That would be in your range, but the standard 00-18 or 000-18 are going to be well within your price range as well. I am not a dred guy, in fact the 00 is the largest guitar in my stable at present. However my 00 and 000 have been excellent for both strumming and fingerstyle. I also have played one of the Smartwood OM's which was good and then the 15 series is a great buy, but you might not want to go with all mahogany unless you play it (I do have an 0-15 12 fret custom as well)
Good luck with your search.
Jon
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