I would look around for a $500 used guitar over a $500 new guitar. You will more than likely get a way better guitar for the money. Let face it this is not going to be your last guitar so do not stress if it not what you want/think you want. The main thing you need now is a ax that will carry you to the next step. You will know when/if you need a new guitar. Plow through E-Bay for cheep used effects also you may find that sound for less than $100.