when you look for a guitar think about the sound, build quality and what you get for what your paying don't choose by looks, spend a whole day in the guitar shop, don't be intimated by the staff; ask questions and try stuff out.

Kurb-Stomp wrote Don't even think about buying a guitar off the internet, go to your local guitar shop.

I agree with him because I bought a drum set off of ebay and it's the worst set I've ever had. So I sold it on craigslist and went down to guitar center and figured what set fits me most and it sounds way better than the other set. Plus, it was cheaper too ...

[ Register or Signin to view external links. ] to find anything cheap!!

You have to start somewhere I suppose, a good starting point is Epiphone, they make quality gear at a reasonable price and Line 6 has some good amps for cheap, I started with an Epiphone then got a B.C. Rich and now I am sitting happy with my white and gold schecter synyster custom, it may have been over $1000 but once you realize it is something you love it is worth the investment, also don't be afraid to order online, but do try to test the instrument first and see if it suits you and not just the price. Hopefully I helped, pm me if you need any other help or answers!