So glad to see this post guys and gals. I've been tooting this horn for the past 7 or 8 years. I own a strat squire, that to even the most experienced players, would not be able to pick it out of a blind test in either tone or play-ability. I also have a Harmony flying V that I did have to tinker with to get it playing well and stay in tune. The sound is monstrous though. I also have a couple others that are even better than some I owned even 12-15 years ago. One that comes to mind is a Dean that appears to be crafted after a Les Paul Jr. This one came out of the box snorting and bucking and hasn't needed any work or parts updating at all! As in everything in life, make your OWN choices. Following the herd will only get you to where the herd ends up. Now let me add. Not one of these instruments did I give more than $80.00.