Well, I don't know. I think highly of every one of the fine builders of these fabulous instruments. Some may be better than others much as some violins are "better" than others. Experience shows, of course. All I know is my new Martin is giving me great pleasure. It is like a booster shot to my enthusiasm for the music. May have to go to Balfa Camp this year. I am sure a Savoy, a Poullard, a Bon Ton etc would have done much the same. Did I mention I really like the key of D? I wonder how the box would work in an Irish session?
I fully intend on getting a Martin box made soon. But i do feel the same. I respect all the builders. Martin happens to be closer to my house so I went there first. And I was blown away with how respectful and helpful they were. Especially with my left handed issue I was curious about. I'm gonna play the box I got for awhile. Then I'll go after a Martin. As my needs and wants develop. I know when I started guitar, my needs and wants quickly developed. Now my guitars are a certain way. I'm guessing box will end up the same way.