I have always felt that private luthiers produce the best "feeling" guitars, but in the end it all comes down to you, and your wallet. As for the sore fingers, calluses take time to build up. Mine are subcutaneous at this point, meaning it doesent look like i have calluses, but they are there, just permanently under my skin, so i never get sore fingers. Try not to soak your fingers under hot soapy water for long periods of time, ie. bath, or washing dishes, that will soften your fingertips. Enjoy though, this could be the beginning of a life time journey.