I've been playing guitar for more than 35 years, and I regret that the Tangent wasn't available when I was much younger. It's far easier to play than any of the purely acoustic guitars I've owned, and has a warmth to its tone that my Strat can't match. I looked at dozens of acoustic-electrics at different dealers on the web, and none of the other guitars match the combination of looks and performance the Tangent offers.

Sound
Sound quality is extraordinary. Not as "boom-y" as a big dreadnought (I also have a 40-year-old Goya 12-string, so I'm speaking from experience), but extremely crisp and clear without being at all "tinny." Plugged in, much depends upon the amp you're using, but when you can dial in FX to go with the tone that's already there, it's pretty special. Warm and inviting without too being fuzzy or opaque. Easily the best tone of any acoustic I've played in nearly 40 years, and there's nothing to complain about when plugged in, either.

Features
The OP-30 preamp is easy to use - and very useful. I haven't messed with the 3-band EQ (I like the tone the way it is), but tone is easy to tweak. The built-in tuner is a snap to use, mutes the sound while you're using it, and is pretty much foolproof. "Preshape" mode in preamp is also useful for a variety of tones, and you can boost the midrange as well. It's all very well thought out. I'd still like a pick guard of some type, but that's a minor quibble. One… read more other thing is lacking, and that's some form of stress relief for the amp cable where it plugs into the back. I loop the cable through the strap of course, but I'd still like to see the cable plug in at an angle.

Ease of Use
Beginners and pros alike should love it. The neck is nearly as thin as my Strat's, and the action a nice compromise between high and low, so playability is excellent. I can't give a 10 here, however, because the included documentation is almost totally inadequate. Much of the electronic stuff is pretty intuitive, but not all of it. You'll find better instructions at Ovation's website - but you shouldn't have to go online to find out the best way to remove the preamp to change the battery.

Quality
Can't speak to reliability yet - I haven't had the instrument long enough. Feels very solid and well put-together, and plays that way. Finish is nearly flawless, the "bowl" isn't going to break unless you run over it with your car, and the neck, tuning machines, &c. are very sturdy. The weak link is probably the preamp connection if you have to remove the unit often to change batteries - mechanical "insert/remove" connections almost always eventually warp, twist, or wear to the point where replacement is necessary - but given the features and the quality of the guitar as a whole, I wouldn't expect any problems for many years.

Value
For a hobbyist or beginner, this is a pretty expensive instrument, but it has so many of the good features that draw both electric and acoustic players I'd have to say it's among the best deals in the market right now.

Manufacturer Support
Don't know - haven't had to deal with the factory.

The Wow Factor
One of the other reviewers was probably right on the money - you either love the look or you hate it. I love it. I also am impressed with the combination of technology and old-fashioned aesthetic appeal. It looks great, and performs to match its looks. I wanted one - just based on the looks - for years. Playing it is even better.

Musical Background:
Hobbyist of long standing - since 1969

Musical Style:
Blues, Blues-Rock, some Country read less