Originally Posted by: semitone24Ive been playing on a no-name brand accoustic that i bought from target (lol) for about 3 months now and ive really found a passion for playing. I'd really like to upgrade to an electric but i have absolutely no idea of what to get.

I havent found my playing style yet but I really like the body of the Gibson LP and guitars with 20+ frets. Any ideas for a beginner electric for $200-300? I'd also want just a small traveling amp to start out with.

Epiphone (made by the same people as Gibson, the only difference is it's not hand made and it's made overseas) Les Paul, under $300
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Standard-Electric-Guitar?sku=518341V
It's a refurbished, but that usually just means a few minor, hardly noticeable scratches here and there.

Another option is to go around to pawn shops. That's how I got my acoustic. I was all ready to drop $800 on it. Next day I went to a pawn shop and found it for $350 with a hard case.
That's also how I got my amp. It's a 60 watt Crate, excellent condition, paid $125.

It's not a guarantee that you'll find something, but it never hurts to look.