Collings best in the long run. Less neck set issues. Talk to some lifetime Martin authorized repair guys. They love Martins because it keeps them in work. But they are old and iconic for sure.
A few years before my dad died, I asked him if he had any regrets. He said only that he sold his Martin D-28. He sold it when he went in the Army. So it had to be before 1951. When I decided to upgrade to a Martin, I wanted one that was built like the older D-28s so I bought a new HD-28. I love it but I have a bad right shoulder and I would be in pain after 45 minutes. I was also getting into finger picking so I bought an 000-28 sunburst. Then I heard so many people that loved their CEO-7s that I bought one. They each have their own beautiful voices. I also own a Guild F-512 (also very fine quality), for when I need a 12 string. Love them all. Quality guitars motivate you to play more!
