If you're buying from eBay make sure you don't buy from abroad as you'll have to pay import tax and that really increases the price (I learnt from my mistakes...).

Musiciansfriend is also listed in the US I think so I'd also advise against that.

Personally the brand I would recommend is called "Vintage" and I think they only sell in the UK (not really sure on that one). Vintage concentrate on low price guitars, but they are of great quality. I have a Vintage, Ibanez, and a LTD guitar and the Vintage is not that far behind the Ibanez although it cost 250 pounds less. Ok so maybe the hardware isn't as good but it still plays sufficiently well enough for the beginner guitarist/bassist.

Anyway I did check the net for their website but I couldn't find it. However a lot of shops in the UK do supply them so go check it out! I'll post the URL of their homepage when/if I find it. :D

p.s. eBay you can find great deals on, but don't forget you don't actually get to play and hear the instrument before you buy unlike in a shop! :eek: