OK good, thanks so much. I actually have a budget of $350, i can stretch it to $400 if need be. I know this is nothing but its what i can afford at the moment and i have been searching ebay and seen some Ovations going for that.

The best i describe the sound i want is this; i heard a guy playing a bowl-shaped guitar, an Ovation i think. The sound was SO nice. I dont know if it was bcos it was bowl-shaped rather than the normal flat-back. Anyhoo thats the sound i want, mellow and not too birght. I dont know if its possible to get that on an a/e.

Like i said, any guide on wood, electronics etc is great. Also does the bowl-shape make any difference in sound?