Thanks for the input, Tom. My professional buddies also tell me to go shure, and I know from my years in FM radio that they can take a severe beating (lets just be honest and call it abuse). As for the amp, I am pretty sure the Fender acoustic has independent channels and of course it has reverb, its a fender. The only systems I see at open mics are of course more complex than my needs dictate, with multiple monitors, channels for multiple instruments and mics, etc. If I join a band I'll make sure someone else has the necessary equipment ! I suppose my next step is to visit my friendly local music store and actually plug my axe into some amps and see what comes out. As for renting a system, Mike, I have thought of that but at present my income from solo gigs is unlikely to cover the cost. Just looking to take the next step. I got songs, I got fans, I just need to pay for all of my guitars!