Ive always found Yamaha's acoustics to be very reliable with good craftmenship. I have a 1950's yamaha nylon acoustic, of course theres only so much that can be said for the previous owner, I mean no matter how meticulous you are, nothing lasts forever or even sounds as good as when you first bought it. But believe it or not this instrument still have a very bright sound to it and the fretboard isnt damaged one bit. From what I understand the previous owner played this exact model like there was no tomorrow before he sold it (due to his moving situation.) Ive never had any problems wth this particular model, as well as anything with the name name Yamaha. Its more than luck, believe me...

All in all, let your ears guide you as to what instrument has the right sound for you.

-Joseph, :).