Originally Posted by: 0toleranceif it were a car you'd want to kick the tires right???

this is a good example, and seeing as you could actually buy a (very) used car for that amount of money, I think you should definately play it before you buy it! I may feel comfortable buying a $600-700 guitar off the internet, but $3,000??? no way. when and if (doubt it) I ever have that kind of money to spend on a guitar, I'd try EVERYTHING out! including custom built and not well-known brands. go to your nearest guitar center, and try damn near every PRS, Gibson, Fender, Jackson, etc. guitar that they have, piss off the employees, who cares. but don't make a decision right then! look around and try to find some small time brands and custom built axes, THEN you can make an informed decision for yourself. there have been plenty of links on this thread to some great luthiers, check their stuff out as well.

good luck, happy hunting, and let us know what you decide on!