I once had an Epi Les Paul and it sucked, but i guess they can be hit or miss as has been said. I completely agree that you should "screw the name" on the instrument or amp...I've been playing a Carvin electric exclusively for 6 years now and I've never picked up another guitar that feels and plays quite like it. Most folks have never even heard of Carvin (i guess cuz theyre not sold in stores)...Forget the fact that theyre a great "bang-for-your-buck" (i think that term has a bad connotation anyways) they'd be worth it if they cost the same as a PRS or Gibson...luckily its on about half the price.