I have a Martin OOOX1 that I bought in 2006 for $650 and I really like it. Everyone who has come over to my house, and picked it up to play it comments on what a nice tone it has, and I find it very easy to play. I'm sure I'll never regret the purchase.
That said, I'm not sure I am a rabid Martin fan. As someone else said, it depends on what you have to spend. When I bought that guitar, there was a Seagull model (I forget which) for around $450 that played almost as well. I probably would have bought that guitar, but the one at the store had a bad nut, and my daughter talked me into the Martin instead of dealing with the guitar that already had a problem. For someone on a tight budget, I'd probably recommend the Seagull over the Martin. I have also played several Martins from the next price range up, like the D-16, D-18, and although I would say they are somewhat louder and a little boomier, I can't justify spending two grand for the amount of difference you get. When I am ready to move to a better instrument, I doubt I will buy another Martin.
Mama Mama many worlds I've come since I first left home.
