IMO, you won't find a better buy in that range than the Ovation CC026. I got mine for 280 with a very nice case. It plays very well, and sounds great. The sound is a little unique; you can hear each individual string very clearly, and it projects alot more. The aucostic sound of the CC026 is great, and plugged in is awesome. I would say you've got to try it in person first though; alot of people don't go in for Ovations for whatever reason.