What I would do would be go to a local store that carries them and try them out. For that kind of money, you should try it for yourself not rely on the opinions of others. I've met guys that swear by Ibanez and I don't like playing them. Everyone has their own tastes and preferences. Try some different guitars out in your price range and see what you like. You might be suprised.
Sometimes I hit notes only dogs can hear.