I spotted that Epi Les Paul Jr. at one of the Guitar Centers here in New Jersey. It looks like a very nice guitar for the money. I was so tempted to pick one up, but I've sworn off buying guitars until I plunk down the cash for a real Les Paul.
I've been playing guitar for twenty-eight years. Two of them (age 15-17) I spent playing bass, for more than twenty of them I goofed around on an Epiphone acoustic, doing more singing than playing. For the past three years I've been serious about the guitar. One of the things that I can't get over is the great value on quality gear. It is amazing. What a difference from years ago, as you noted in an earlier post.
I have an Oscar Schmidt (by Washburn) OE30, which is an ES335 knock-off, that is, as John Hiatt might say, a perfectly good guitar. It is amazing really. $149 USD, ordered online at Musician's Friend. I've had it for a couple of years and let me tell you, it really sounds good. Amazing.
Also, a word of encouragement: It doesn't matter what age you start at. I got a late start. I'm 43 now. I took nine months of lessons over a year ago: Two hours every Thursday night, paying for an hour a week. It is only sinking in now, but I feel good. I must've played twelve hours this weekend. You can do it.
Bottom line: A cheap guitar in 2006 is often times better than an expensive post CBS Fender was in 1978. No kidding.
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