I'm not connected in any way with Guitar Trader, but I do subscribe to their newsletter. They're selling Epiphone beginner sets, (guitar, practice amp, and gig bag), that list at $US519 for [u]$US169[/u]! Click the link, and then e-mail for the sale price.

They have SG sets in black, and transparent red. They also have a black LP set

These aren't top-of-the-line guitars and amps, but at that price its probably the best deal a beginner could want.