ahhh yes, the ongoing and never ending debate: which brand is better? Martin or Taylor? I am biased and I prefer a Martin. I went to a store, I tried both, but it was the Martin that stole my heart, not a Taylor. The truth of the matter is this: they are both top of the line guitar brands, both are high quality, but it is just simply a matter of YOUR OWN preference in sound.
When I tried them I found that the Taylors have a brighter tone. It is beautiful. It very much stands out.
Martins have a very rich sound particularly a full rich bassy tone to it. To me, Martins sound like velvet. They also smell better than anything else on this earth (but that's besides the point).
If you are thinking of spending $700 on one I'd say wait a little longer. While you will still get a nice guitar of either models, you will be getting just about the lowest end of each. I suggest waiting on it a little longer and be willing to invest AT LEAST $1000 and you will be getting prettty good bang for your buck, especially if you're looking at a place that offers good deals. I bought my guitar at buffalo brothers in san diego and they have a wide selection. they also have an online store i think its
http://buffalobrosguitars.com
just try a few and see what you prefer. i'm all for the martin though, but that's just my personal opinion...
Jen