Typical golden goose story. The big guys crank out thousands of guitars, new models every year, special editions, distressed versions (for musicians too lazy to screw up their own guitars), etc. And their corporate owners demand bigger revenue every year. Then lots of little guys (and Chinese) see the huge sales and get in with guitars that are about as good for half the price which further gluts up the market. And at some point the bottom drops out. I'd hate to see Gibson and Fender go but if they cannot compete in a shrinking market then..."ByeBye"!