To the OP: I was in a similar situation as you and same stage. I went with a HSS strat and a Mustang I amp. No regrets. I can get a ton of different tones out of it very easily. I'd be lying to myself if I said that the equipment in any way holds me back.

If you haven't already, I'd recommend going to a shop and just feel and hold the guitars. Wrapping your hands around a few necks alone with give a sense of the differences and you might say "ooo, like that" or ""nope, not for me."

So much of the entry level equipment is so good. Also check out the video and online reviews at Andertons. They do some great reviews, and have recently published some on new entry level Gibsons and Fenders.