You could also look at a Yamaha. Relatively inexpensive but I don't feel they have much voice. I picked up an older Fender at the flea market this past summer for $125. Doesn't sound too bad. I can't recall if you have played in the past. If not, you'll want to take someone along with you that knows guitars if you go with a used one.
Beginners deal out there as Takamine makes great guitars. Jasmine is made by Takamine. Takamine Jasmine Model S35 Its $99 bucks free shipping read the amazon reviews I have played this one too and for the price great sounding guitar for a beginner. Has smaller thinner kneck for easier chording. http://www.amazon.com/Jasmine-S35-Acoustic-Guitar-Natural/dp/B0002F58TG/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1418413444&sr=1-1&keywords=takamini
Jasmine S35 for $79 Free Shipping http://www.guitarcenter.com/Jasmine-S-35-Dreadnought-Acoustic-Guitar-109135186-i3081364.gc to get $20 off use PromoCode: DECSAVE
they are basicly a gibson with a lesser paint job good guitars i went to a bluegrass jam in buffalo center last night played for 3 hrs. it was fun got an invite back and to albert lee minn. so didn't mess up too bad i guess
Bought my first electric yesterday. Gibson SG 60's Tribute. Playing around with it right now. Quite a difference after 30 years of acoustics.
That youtube above of the Jasmine guitar is about as good of recording you will hear they are using a high dollar mic. Plus thats a professional muscian LOL. Sorry devils Brew You will be that good someday. One thing I have learned using a cheap mic can really make for some bad sounding recordings. I use one of these Blue Yeti mics. Plugs into my laptop
Closest I come to musical instruments are some wood components that I make for people that make instruments. Electric steel guitar, or this one called a Canjoe. This Husband Wife team make the Canjoe. http://www.henryhoovercanjos.com/index.html
Just got back from being out of town and I am exhausted. The old strings are going to have to do until I get over the music store. I appreciate all of your help. I will get my butt in gear here shortly.