Good advice here and in the other thread referenced earlier.
From a utilitarian point of view, the old vs. new question is the same with Guilds as it is with most other guitars. However, there really isn't a significant question about quality from any given period (you do find that with some of hte other brands). Nor is there the sentimentality of some golden-era period that you might get with a old Martin or Gibson.
I tend to agree with the general concensus that you can't get a better value than a Westerly Guild. At least compared to new, USA-built guitars... pick your brand. That said, if you like new stuff, be *sure* to check out the Standard Series guitars and think about value. Plus, New Hartford has recently introduced some cutaway versions that have never existed before.
The GAD series, however, represents new product that is among the best of the Chinese-made guitars, loosely based on the original Guild designs.
Best of luck in your decision!
And, West, that is one bias that I can fully support.
