The first D35 I played at guitar center a few weeks ago sounded amazing... it sold and there was a "new" one in it's place. Strings were rusty and really dull sounding. They put new strings on it and I am going to try it tommorow. If it sounds like the first one, I will be quite happy. If not, then either a road trip or possibly the 28 that was there. It sounded great as well.
My Alvarez has Elixers on it. Not sure what ones though.