I'd like to butt in for a moment if I may!
Besides my F-50 and JF-30, I currently still own an Epiphone EJ-200, as well as an EJ-200ce. And a Gretsch Rancher, And a Mitchell 12 string.
And I USED to own 2 other EJ200s, a Washburn EA40, a Guild D25M, a Gibson J160E, and old 1970s FG series Yamaha, A Harmony, a Kay and a bunch of other things...and that's just the acoustics!
Why?
I used to tell myself..."well, I can't afford this right now, but I CAN afford that and can possibly make it work". And I spent a bunch of time and money TRYING to make the EJs work!
If I were to total up all the "just for now" guitars I bought that ultimately did NOT make me happy, I could have bought BOTH my current Guilds and still had money left over! And more space in my "music room"!
I know hindsight is 20/20, but if there is any possible way to hold out and save up a little more dough to get a good, used American-made Guild...do it! You will be oh-so-glad you did!
GADs? Fine guitars "for what they are". Yes, I have played them.
Epiphones? (including the Masterbuilts) Fine for what they are and what they cost.
And ultimately, they will leave you wanting!
American made Guilds? No qualifiers needed. One of the best guitars you will ever play regardless of cost!
It will absolutely BLOW YOU AWAY, especially after an EJ200!
Deals can be found on used, well-cared for JF30s and F-50s.
JMHO...but, I kinda know what I'm talking about!