i saw that you were looking for a new inexpensive guitar. I always recommend Dean and Washburn guitars. The import models, much cheaper versions of their USA models are flat out great guitars and they start at around $300.00 and go through $1000.00. They are built to a very high standard, MUCH nicer than your epiphones and mexican fenders. Dean has a model, The Soltero that is just a really nice guitar, similar to a Les Paul in looks and weight and the Hardtail, which they put out to compete with Paul Reed Smith guitars with alot of success. Both are around $500-600.00 and offer the same extra's as guitars costing over $2000 to $3000.00. Check them out before you buy one of the others, I think you will be very happy with them. Washburn also has some fine inexpensive guitars, the Idol line of guitars.
Glenn