I played one at my local store a few months back. I'm a fingerpicker (with fingerpicks) and was impressed by the tone and balance. The cedar softened the sparkle a bit, but paired with the koa, it had enough to give that clarity that I like when I play....note separation. I'm really not in the market for another guitar (I'm happy with what I have), but I was duly tempted. I'm not a big strummer, so I can't tell you how that would have been, but guessing it would have held it's own to some degree, because Taylor cedar-topped guitars just have that range. I hope this helps.