I find that in general, if you're looking for comfort in size, then hybrids are your best bet. Beware, you're compromising on a lot of the tone, for a more comfortable tone. Ibanez have this art down pat though. Local to me (Canada) and in your price range, I would recommend this guitar, by and large, in terms of overall capability.

http://www.long-mcquade.com/products/12994/Guitars/Acoustic/Ibanez/MSC350_-_Montage_Electric_Acoustic_Hybrid_-_Black.htm

In terms of size and comfort, for a full size (not 3/4) guitar, simply avoid the Dreadnought style guitar, in favor of something like a cutaway acoustic.

http://www.long-mcquade.com/products/17661/Guitars/Acoustic/Fender_Musical_Instruments/Fender_Sonoran_SCE_Bubinga.htm


There are pro's to full sized guitars, and the tonal presence of a Dreadnought acoustic is far broader than say, a hybrid. Hybrids unplugged can sound like tin cans, as they use a much lighter wound string close to an electric. But, plugged in, and that's where they shine.


Last thought;

Play both, listen to them both, and find what matches for you, to avoid buying something you find won't evolve with your play style moving forward. Don't buy a grand piano, if you want to play the synth.

might also check out a "0" or "00" as well. smaller body, curvier sides.

or maybe an old used "parlor" guitar they can be found for around your price range and have a lot of character. ive played a few old ones and really like them.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parlor_guitar

This post was edited by juliusjuice on Oct 23 2012 07:53pm