Quote (Phreke @ Mon, Mar 2 2009, 07:26pm)
No offense, but around that range, it won't really make much of a difference in terms of sound. You won't be able to get the quality wood or pickups to make a noticeable change. What you should do, really, is go by looks (I hate myself for saying that, by the way) and more importantly, action. Go into GuitarCenter (don't buy from them) or Sam Ash and pluck around on a few models. Once you find one you like, go online and buy online, since it's manufacturer direct almost (no one's opened the box, at least). My favorites have to be either an epiphone or an ibanez. They both have really great action, very nice sound (as comparable to the other models in the price range), generally look pretty good, and I know most ibanez guitars have a shallow neck (which is good for people who are either just learning, or have tiny hands like myself =P).
Thanks, for the help.