Amazing responses from everyone! +1 on buying from a music store, your axe is an extention of your arms and fingers so pick one out that feels right. You will know the minute you sit down with it if it is the right one.

I picked up my first guitar after playing for a year with a rented instrument, that was back in 71. It was an Epiphone acoustic and I loved that thing! I just bought an Epiphone SG and for the money (about 300.00) it feels and plays great.