What Guitar

[Stiggolas]

Hi all, makes a change from the what car threads!
I'm an absolute beginner and have been for 20 years!
I bought an Encore Strat copy all those years ago and recentlty dug it out with the intention of learning properly this time.
I can't help thinking there's better out there and now I'm a little more solvent I've started looking. I fancy a Les Paul type but the options are endless.
What would you go for with a budget of £300.
I use my iPad with Amplitube and an iRig for the amp and have no intention of gigging so purely for my own enjoyment.
The Epiphone Les Paul type look good as so the ESP LTD 256.
Any others I should look at?

Thanks

[Stiggolas]

Ok, thanks very much for the suggestions
I forgot to mention I'm a lefty and it appears PRS don't do the Standard 24 in a left handed version.
The Gretsch looks lovely in black but I can't seem to find one locally to have a play with!
There's plenty on the internet though so might have to take a punt!
Plus if it's black, the wife won't tell the difference to the old Encore

I have heard lots of good reviews for the Yamaha Pacifica guitars, they are very reasonable money (£159) and my local shop stocks them, I may get one as a halfway house and trade up next year...

[Stiggolas]

As an aside, just noticed this on Gumtree

http://www.gumtree.com/p/miscellaneous-stuff-wante...

It's what I have, and may want to sell, anyone know why this guy may want one, is it something a bit different to the norm?

Ta

[Stiggolas]

Thanks for the tip SWoll, just bought it

I think I need to learn to play better before spending a shedload of cash!
At least the wife will be pleased, She has an extra £200 for shoes and handbags.....ho hum....

[Stiggolas]

Quick update.
New guitar delivered, new case, new strap.
Love it. The Yamaha has a much slimmer neck and seems to suit my fingers.
Also ordered a Zoom effects / amp simulator foot switch thingy. Will see how it all pans out.

Cheers peeps

[Stiggolas]

I do have a practice amp, a Hohner Wave 30W jobbie but it's as old as the Encore guitar (bought as a starter kit).
Just ordered a Zoom G1 XON effects and amp modelling pedal kit. Should be here Friday for some musical fun
Having a last twang on the old guitar before it goes tomorrow and I have to say the Yamaha is streets ahead on playability. The action is far lighter, the neck slimmer, it may be me but there seems to be more sustain on the Yam too.
Time to get learning.
Any hot tips other than practice every night?

Thanks again for your input guys.

[Stiggolas]

Thanks again guys.
I'm already using Justin Sandercoe on his website and he seems pretty good!
I have a selection of picks from 0.38mm to 0.8mm. The difference in sound is surprising (and the wrong way round to my brain).
I assumed the thinner the pick, the more mellow the sound would be.....WRONG
As for a pro setup, we do have a good guitar shop in Doncaster (Electro Music) But I'm a bit embarrased to take the new guitar there as they stock that model and I didn't buy it from them...
I may start having some lessons soon. The sprog is having Ukulele lessons and his teacher also does guitar. I'll be seeing him tonight so I'll ask.