Well, how can you be sure that he's playing the same exact guitar as yours, did the guy state that it was a GRX40, or are you going by plain sight. He could also be using a better amp, or as Josh said, better pickups.

If its not the same guitar, then heres how it basically goes: The more you spend, the better guitar/sound your going to get. Thats not always the scenario, some guitars can be cheaper than others and sound better. But your $100 beginner guitar will sound like crap if you compare it to a $1000 Fender Strat or a $5000 PRS Cusom.

I wouldn't be so concerned on how other people sound, when you get more and more into guitar, you'll get more gear and be better satisfied. Just learn some songs/riffs and jam along to your favorite cd's. Try and see if you can figure out some riffs on your own before you go tab hunting.

Also, check out this: www.guitartricks.com/guide.php Theres some great lessons there and will help you out a bunch.