I have 6 guitars, and none of them cost more than 500 bucks... My options are already severely limited because I play lefthanded, so I at least try to try out a guitar when I see one. My first guitar, which I bought 5 years ago, is a 1989 Peavy Tracer, and I wouldn't part with that thing for all the tea in China-it's been with me on several deployments (originally because it was my cheapest one, around 300 bucks!) I have gotten so accustomed to that thing, playing something else seems wrong at this point. I have a couple of Epiphone Les Paul knock-offs, which play awesome as well- don't let the price fool you- those things are really well made. I hate look of the stratocaster type guitars, so I couldn't comment on Squiers, I guess, but the Epiphone quality has really gone up in recent years. I'm actually stationed in Korea right now, and the guitars for sale on the economy are maybe a tad cheaper than in the States. Even if you're not initially happy with the sound of a cheaper guitar, get a pocket pod or some kind of amp emulator- those things will do wonders as well, especially if you look to play blues one day, and the some sabbath the next, as I often do. Great Site- just found it and have already started the member's lessons.