It's great that fresh designs are appearing, and hopefully this will be appreciated by the market segment that goes after the looks. But beyond the cosmetics I'd like to know if there are any technological advances included that Ovation used to be known for in the past. Specifically, I remember when the US production moved overseas and model designations changed from LX to AX there was considerable removal of important features such as neck construction. I think that many buyers who venture into the $1,000+ price range have awareness of technical features such as bracing or neck attachment, and want more detailed specs of the overseas models where competition is pretty stiff I think. Other than for the looks, why should anyone buy an Ovation and not an overseas Eastman, Guild, Yamaha, Sigma or whatever which may be lower priced and solid woods?

I agree. Ovation has some stiff competition in this price range.