Hello all,
My name's Tim and I'm shopping around for my first Ovation and I'm currently in the process of researching the various models that I find for sale. Your "Ovation Model Reference" has been of GREAT help to me, so first, thanks!

I have played a number of ovations (my sis has an older Applause which plays very well), and I think it's time that I buy my own to add something different to my "collection". I have a decent Yamaha, a nice Seagull SWS, an older Harmony Archtop for slide, but there's just something about the way an Ovation sounds... and plays. Gotta' have one!

After perusing the many discussion forums I still have questions... my most pressing question; Considering that I only want to spend about $400 or so, how is the quality of the newer Celebrity models as compared to an older model that was US made? I can purchase a NEW, foreign made Celebrity OR an older US made model like a 1617, 1771, 1861 etc. or occasionally even a used S771 or S861 etc. in my price range? What to do? How much difference is their REALLY between the newer off-shores and a much older US made?

Well here I am... first post and I'm begging for help.

I am not a gig musician so I'm not looking for anything high-dollar... I just play with friends and occasionally set in with a bluegrass band for fun.

I've always enjoyed the sound and way Ovations "feel" in the hand... they've ALL played so well (maybe it's the necks... I don't know).

I will appreciate any info and advice concerning this purchase so please, feel free. I'm sure I have other questions, but the quality issue is most pressing.

Thanks for the assist folks!