I'd like to pick up a dreadnought with solid spruce top and solid mahagony back and sides. Any thoughts on which Guild models I should look at? My budget is around 2k. I'd like a USA made model. Not sure about New Hartford products. Thoughts or suggestions appreciated. Thanks.
Hi "D", welcome aboard!
Specifically there are only 2 models that meet your exact criteria, of a Westerly
dreadnought with solid 'hog back/sides and spruce top: D40 and D35. D40 is by far more common. It's been around since '63 in that configuration, no matter where it was built.
The F40/47 someone mentioned is a Grand Orchestra ("jumbo" in Gibson speak).
ALL Westerly acoustic tops are solid, by the way. In fact I think all Guild acoustics had solid tops no matter where they were built.
You're specific enough in your inquiry that I assume you know exactly what you want, but just in case, be aware that the laminated arched backs like those found on D25's are in no way inferior to the solid flat backs. They simply offer a different voice for a 'hog backed dreadnought, better suited for fuller sounding chords when strumming, but still pretty dang versatile.
New Hartford had an excellent quality reputation, you may still be able to find one of their D40's within your budget, and even get warranty, if it's "New Old Stock". Ask the dealer that question specifically, as new owners Cordoba Music Group committed to honor warranty on that type of instrument, but there may be other liquidated instruments out there which were sold without warranty.
Our member BingK operates Guitars of Montana and as an authorized dealer would be sure to have warranted intruments as well as a great price for members here. Just don't know if he's got any D40's.
Good Luck!