I got my 522 12 fret back in February. It immediately became my favorite steel string guitar and keeps sounding more delicious everyday. I counted up the guitars I've had over the years and this is number 61 with reps from all the high end big boys and a few boutique builders. This Taylor 522 12 fret is one I'm definitely keeping. Of course it depends on how you play I guess. I play mostly finger style with bare fingers and a thumb pick and I find the tone to be rich, sweet and balanced when it's is played in this way. and is possesses a lovely sustain. It has the best treble I've ever heard on any of my guitars, past or present - thick and creamy. The bass is not explosive and booming, but I want it that way. Some folks like the thunder and this is probably not the guitar for them. I savor lyrical articulation and if you are like me, this is one scrumptious bauble.