Best
Beginner Electric Guitar
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Overall: Comfortable grip for effortless performance
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Best Feature: Full-bodied tone with brilliant brightness
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Intermediate Electric Guitar
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Overall: Smooth playability with a comfortable neck profile.
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Best Feature: Versatile pickups for chunky rhythms and fluid leads.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional Electric Guitar
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Overall: Exceptional value for both beginner and experienced guitarists
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Best Feature: Pristine clean tones and warm overdriven sounds
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TedScore™: 9/10
Finding the best electric guitar under $500 can feel like striking gold without spending much. It’s all about getting excellent sound quality at a price that won’t empty your wallet.
In this guide, I’ll review the options, highlighting budget-friendly guitars that still offer excellent quality. Whether you’re playing energetic garage rock or soulful blues, an affordable guitar is perfect for you.
So, keep reading as we explore the world of affordable electric guitars. By the end, you’ll be all set to make music with a new guitar that’s easy on both your fingers and your wallet. Let’s find the perfect guitar that fits your style and budget.
Our Top 11 Picks of Electric Guitar Priced Under 500
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster LRL, Candy Apple Red
Experience the essence of the ’60s with the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Stratocaster LRL in Candy Apple Red. This iconic guitar is a tribute to the legendary artists of that era, delivering a lively and vibrant tone that captures the spirit of the Swinging Sixties.
This is equipped with three powerful Alnico single-coil pickups and a 5-way pickup switching; it offers a versatile range of raw and bright sounds that suit various genres, from blues to rock.
But it’s not just about the tone. The Classic Vibe Stratocaster boasts exceptional playability, combining vintage aesthetics with modern engineering techniques. The “C”-shaped neck fits comfortably in your hand, allowing for effortless movement up and down the fretboard. The narrow-tall frets make string bending a breeze, while the smooth Indian laurel fingerboard ensures seamless transitions between notes.
Adding to its versatility, this guitar features a vintage synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing you to add a distinctive edge to your lead playing. Whether you prefer subtle tremolo effects or want to unleash a torrent of warbling solos, this tremolo system lets you do it all.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate players
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5''
OTHER INFO: .009 - .042 Gauges
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster LRL, Candy Apple Red
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Authentic vintage tone reminiscent of the iconic '60s era
- Vintage tone to suit you
- Smooth and effortless playing action
- Tremolo effect can provide an edge to lead playing
- Extra bright pickups
- Arrived with initial setup issues
- Potential need for upgrades to achieve desired playability
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s, Bourbon Burst
Prepare to be immersed in a world of pro-level tones that will ignite your musical soul. The Epiphone Les Paul 60s features a dynamic duo of ProBucker humbuckers at your fingertips; your sound will soar to new heights.
These pickups possess a mesmerizing ability to breathe life into each note, delivering a crisp and clear response that resonates with warmth and vintage charm. The low-end packs a muscular punch, while the high-end sparkles with brilliance.
Beyond its heavenly tones, this guitar’s playability is as smooth as silk. Crafted with a mahogany neck boasting a ’60s SlimTaper profile, it comfortably cradles your hand and allows for effortless maneuverability across the fretboard. The tonal characteristics of the mahogany neck add a touch of warmth, enveloping your notes in a luscious smoothness that complements any musical genre.
The Indian laurel fretboard takes playability to new heights, providing exceptional note sustain and a sleek, friction-free surface. Your fingers will glide along the frets like a bird in flight, empowering you to express yourself freely and improvise with boundless creativity.
Designed for the stage, this guitar radiates elegance with its gleaming nickel hardware. The LockTone ABR bridge and stopbar tailpiece work in perfect harmony, ensuring your strings remain stable and in tune, locked securely in place.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner To Intermediate
FEATURES: Comes with Grover Rotomatic tuners
OTHER INFO: Scale Length: 24.75"
Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s, Bourbon Burst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Glorious humbucker sonics with rich, warm voicing.
- Smooth playability with a comfortable neck profile.
- Versatile pickups for chunky rhythms and fluid leads.
- High-quality hardware
- Exceptional value for the price.
- Some players may not prefer the style of tuners.
- Pickups may not deliver the desired tone for some players
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Pacifica 112V, Black
Yamaha guitars have built a reputation for being solid and impressive instruments in the market. While more expensive and fancy models are available in the sub-500 category, none quite match the value for money offered by the Yamaha Pacifica 112V.
For a long time, the Pacifica has been considered the benchmark for beginner guitars, and the 112V lives up to those expectations with ease. Instead of focusing on unnecessary frills, Yamaha has created an exceptional instrument that allows players to concentrate on their playing without distractions.
The guitar is incredibly versatile and produces a brilliant sound, thanks to its HSS pickup configuration, making it suitable for a wide range of musical scenarios.
Surprisingly, the alcino humbucker in the bridge offers a warm and vibrant sound. When switched to the single coil pickups, you are gifted with a classic, twangy tone that is perfect for blues or country music.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner guitarists
FEATURES: Made of Alder
OTHER INFO: Includes a vintage tremolo system for expressive playing
Yamaha Pacifica 112V, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Excellent build quality
- Highly versatile
- Lightweight and comfortable body
- Volume and tone knobs for customizing sound
- Cheap body material
- Lacks personality
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez GRG140 GIO, White
The other masterpiece in the best electric guitars under 500 list is the Ibanez GRG140 GIO. This guitar offers an impressive combination of features at an unbeatable price.
Boasting a sleek and eye-catching design with a white finish, this instrument is perfect for players of any skill level looking to upgrade their tonal arsenal.
The GRG140 GIO provides infinite tone possibilities with its classic Infinity pickups. Whether you crave the raw power of a humbucker at the bridge or the sweet twang of single coils in the middle and neck positions, this guitar has got you covered.
This means you can effortlessly switch between crushing chords and that unmistakable twang that will make your notes sing.
The basswood body ensures a rich, full-bodied tone with brilliant brightness from the maple neck. These tonewoods provide a well-rounded sound that covers the entire frequency spectrum. The streamlined maple neck gives you a comfortable grip for effortless performance, while the New Zealand pine fretboard ensures precise navigation of the strings.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Comes with 24 Jumbo Frets
OTHER INFO: Scale Length: 25.5’’
Ibanez GRG140 GIO, White
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Sleek design with white finish
- Full-bodied tone with brilliant brightness
- Comfortable grip for effortless performance
- Precise navigation of strings
- Frets feel more like medium-jumbo than jumbo
- Single-coil pickups lack the sparkle of Alnico pickups
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 DKA, Metallic Blue
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 DKA, Metallic Blue is a stunning instrument that perfectly balances performance and aesthetics. It features an eye-catching Poplar body with a deep blue gloss finish and jumbo frets for superior playability.
The slim ‘C’ maple neck and amaranth fretboard are the main attractions, which provide strength and a smooth playing surface. The bridge features a two-point fulcrum tremolo for optimal stability and intonation, while the humbuckers provide plenty of power for crunchy riffs or soaring solos.
The 3-way blade pickup switch gives you full control over the tone, and the master volume and tone dials let you further customize your sound.
The Jackson JS Series Dinky is an ideal instrument for any rock or metal guitarist looking for a great-sounding guitar at an affordable price. Its professional features, sleek design, and superb playability make it an amazing value for anyone who wants to rock out.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Position Inlays: Pearloid Sharkfin
OTHER INFO: Dimensions: 6.00x19.60x44.80 IN
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 DKA, Metallic Blue
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Speedy and fluid playability
- Beautiful metallic blue finish
- 2-point Fulcrum Tremolo bridge is smooth and reliable
- Balanced and dynamic tones, ideal for solos
- Not durable as some other materials
- Amaranth fretboard may not be as attractive to some players
- Tremolo falls short of expectations for metal guitarists.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
ESP LTD EC-10, Black
The ESP LTD EC-10 electric guitar in black is a versatile instrument that offers a lively tone and a range of features to enhance your playing experience. With its basswood body, this guitar delivers a well-balanced and dynamic sound, allowing your notes to flow and resonate with an open tonality.
The EC-10 features a maple neck, which adds brightness and clarity to your sound. The tight, sizzling highs produced by the maple neck complement the overall tonal characteristics of the guitar. This neck also offers fast and unhindered playability, allowing you to easily navigate the fretboard.
The ESP LTD EC-10 is equipped with ESP-designed humbuckers, specifically the LH-100N in the neck position and the LH-100B in the bridge position. These pickups contribute to the guitar’s versatile performance.
The LH-100N offers an open tone, adding depth and warmth to your sound, while the LH-100B produces a bright and vibrant tone that cuts through the mix. This pickup combination allows you to explore a wide range of musical genres and styles.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Scale Length: 24.75"
OTHER INFO: 24 XJ Frets
ESP LTD EC-10, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Ideal for beginners
- Generally produces good sound
- Stylish appearance, especially suitable for heavy metal enthusiasts
- Includes a gig bag for easy transportation
- Some frets may have sharp edges, which can be uncomfortable
- Pickups can sound muddy
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gretsch G5425 Jet Club, Black
The Gretsch G5425 Jet Club is a stunning electric guitar that offers features far beyond what its price tag would suggest. From the glossy polyester finish and Pearloid pickguard to the chambered basswood body and arched laminated maple top, this guitar exudes an unmistakable air of sophistication. The neck and fretboard are carefully crafted, making navigation a breeze, and the die-cast tuning pegs add an attractive touch.
On the hardware side of things, this guitar comes equipped with an Adjusto-Matic bridge and stop tailpiece that ensures consistent sound quality and vibrations throughout the strings.
As for electronics, Gretsch impresses yet again with dual-coil humbuckers in the neck and bridge positions, master volume and tone controls, and a three-way switch. This combination of features gives you access to an array of inspiring tones for any playing style.
When you add some overdrive, the G5425 really comes alive, producing a vibrant and full-bodied sound. This guitar stands out in its class – an absolute must-have for aspiring musicians!
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: 22 Medium Jumbo Frets
OTHER INFO: Scale Length of 24.6"
Gretsch G5425 Jet Club, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Long-lasting tuning stability
- Pristine clean tones and warm overdriven sounds
- Exceptional value for both beginner and experienced guitarists
- Limited tone controls
- Some people don't like chambered body design
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music, Black
The LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music perfectly blends traditional aesthetics and modern functionality. The Paulownia body looks beautiful and provides remarkable durability and a superior finish. Equipped with high-quality pickups, this guitar captures your string sound with clarity and articulation, making it a joy to play.
The intuitive control dials allow for easy and quick sound shaping, while the improved neck joint ensures seamless access to the upper frets, making learning and exploring new sounds a breeze. Designed to cater to beginners while also appealing to seasoned players, the LA Electric comes with all the essential accessories to get you started right away.
Along with the guitar, you’ll receive a sturdy strap for playing while standing, picks for striking the strings, a cable for connecting to an amplifier, and a gig bag to keep your instrument safe during transport.
This comprehensive package is perfect for anyone serious about diving into the world of guitar and is sure to meet your needs and expectations.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Length: 1000mm
OTHER INFO: String Gauge: 09-42
LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight and dynamic wood
- Intuitive sound-shaping capabilities
- Seamless access to upper frets
- Small scale length for easy playing
- Pickups may produce some unwanted noise or hum.
- Electronics may not offer the highest level of clarity and definition.
- Tuning stability may be less reliable
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Dean Michael Batio MAB3 Flame Top, Trans Black
The Michael Batio MAB3 Flame Top guitar is an absolute beast for shredders and those who love to rock out. Its basswood body, complemented by a stunning flame maple top and a smooth rosewood fingerboard, offers a playing experience that is both comfortable and bursting with character in terms of sound.
The maple neck is meticulously crafted into a comfortable C shape, giving you a pure bliss feeling. It feels great and adds a bright focus to the guitar’s tone, breathing even more life into every note you play. And with a scale length of 648mm, you’ll find yourself effortlessly gliding across the fretboard, making those lightning-fast riffs and solos a breeze.
Equipped with three DMT-designed humbucking pickups, this guitar packs a serious punch. Its tone is powerful and full-bodied, with a delicious blend of punchy bottom end and sparkling highs. Whether you’re into hard rock, ripping lead licks, or laying down chunky rhythm parts, the Michael Batio MAB3 Flame Top is your dream companion
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Floyd rose special bridge allows for dive bombs and other whammy bar techniques.
OTHER INFO: Number of Fret: 24
Dean Michael Batio MAB3 Flame Top, Trans Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Stylish and visually appealing flame maple top.
- Lightweight and manageable, weighing only 3.6kg.
- Excellent playability with a comfortable "C" shaped maple neck.
- Powerful, punchy tone with plenty of bottom end and sparkling highs
- Could do with a better lead pickup
- Not the easiest to tame for clean tones
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
SubZero Paradigm Baritone Electric Guitar, Black Burl Burst
When you are in search of the best cheap electric guitars, the SubZero Paradigm Baritone Electric Guitar is an outstanding choice that delivers impressive sound. The guitar neck and bridge pickup, made of Hard Rock Canadian Maple, provides a classic tone that will make your music sound truly unique.
With a 27″ scale length and 24 frets on a smooth laurel fretboard, this guitar offers a comfortable playing experience. Its basswood body is beautifully finished with a striking black burl burst maple veneer, adding a touch of intrigue to its appearance. The back and bevelled top edge of the guitar further enhance the playing comfort.
Notably, the SubZero Paradigm Baritone Electric Guitar features Luminlay side dot markers on the fretboard, which glow in the dark. This means you can play accurately even in dimly lit venues, adding to the guitar’s practicality and versatility.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Material: Adler
OTHER INFO: Dexterity: Right Handed
SubZero Paradigm Baritone Electric Guitar, Black Burl Burst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Dropped tuning capabilities
- Comfortable and playable design with a contoured back
- Eye-catching appearance
- Luminlay side dots glow in the dark
- May require more setup than some guitars
- Sound may not be to everyone's taste
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Hartwood Revival Semi Acoustic Guitar, Sunburst
The last guitar on our list, the Hartwood Revival Semi Acoustic Guitar in Sunburst, is well-suited for those looking to bring some serious vintage vibes into their playing. Built from a rich basswood body with a maple neck and thermally treated maple laminate fretboard, this guitar boasts unparalleled tone, resonance and sustain.
You’ll also find two vintage-style humbuckers designed for big, warm tones that offer creamy iconic sounds perfect for bluesy solos or gentle melodies alike. Its volume and tone knob with 3-way selector gives you full control over your sound, while the adjustable bridge and chrome machine heads ensure reliable tuning.
With its classic tonewood selection and bracing construction, this guitar has the optimal projection for great sound. Whether you’re playing classic rock, jazz, or blues or looking to strum some mellow chords, the Hartwood Revival Semi Acoustic Guitar will give your music the perfect vintage vibe.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: 22 Jumbo frets
OTHER INFO: String Gauges: .010-.046
Hartwood Revival Semi Acoustic Guitar, Sunburst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Rich basswood body for complex tonality and sustain
- Comfortable deep body form improved playability
- Thermally treated maple laminate fretboard
- Heavier than most guitars
- Finish may be slippery for some players
- Not particularly versatile
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
How to Choose
an Electric Guitar
Few musical instruments can match the energy and appeal of an electric guitar. It has been around for generations, captivating audiences with its musical blues and hard-hitting rock riffs.
But how do you find the right one?
With many shapes, sizes, pickups, and tonal possibilities, selecting an electric guitar demands a discerning ear and a keen understanding of personal preferences. Below are some of the key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for an electric guitar.
Tips for Maintaining an Electric Guitar
The electric guitar is an intricate, delicate instrument that requires proper care to keep it playing well. Here are a few tips for maintaining your electric guitar:
- Clean the strings regularly and lubricate them if necessary.
- Check for any wear or fraying of strings before and after playing.
- Store the guitar in a dry, cool place away from sunlight or heat sources.
- Keep the guitar in its case when not in use to protect it from dust and other contaminants.
- Check the action and intonation periodically and adjust as needed.
- Inspect for loose parts or hardware corrosion, such as tuning pegs, nut slots, bridges, etc.
- Keep all moving parts lubricated to maintain proper traction.
- Replace batteries in the pick-ups and preamps as needed.
Best Electric Guitar Under 500
Summary
I’ve researched and presented you with a list of the best guitars under 500. From the rich tones of the blues to the shredding rock and metal solos, these budget-friendly guitars have proven their worth.
If I had to choose from all the above guitars, I’d recommend the Ibanez GRG140 to my students who are just starting out. I also own the Gretsch G5425; I love this guitar and use it when touring and doing musical theatre.
Sticking to this budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Each of these guitars can be a reliable partner in my musical adventures, and they might even surprise experienced players with what they can do.
Whether strumming chords or playing a powerful solo, these guitars are there to ensure my performance is always top-notch. And that means a lot to me.
I have a bit of an issue with categorizing all sub $500 guitars as beginner-level. While it’s true many budget options are targeted towards newcomers, several models, like the Ibanez GIO or Yamaha Pacifica, offer playability and tonal qualities that can satisfy even mid-level players. It’s also worth mentioning that the ‘right guitar’ depends heavily on the genre and playing style. So, while this list offers a good starting point, readers should research further based on their specific needs.
Totally agree with you! My first guitar was a sub $500 and it’s perfect for gigs. It’s all about how you use it.
Interesting point! I’m just starting out but good to know budget doesn’t limit quality.
love the list! got a Yamaha Pacifica last year and it’s still rocking. great picks for beginners!
I’ve spent years collecting guitars and I must say, your list captures some great options for those constrained by a budget. However, it’s indispensable to note that regardless of the price, the added value of a guitar’s resonance and build should not be underestimated. Beginners and pros alike could benefit from your selection. Nicely done, Lewis.
Hey, I just started getting really into this whole guitar thing and saw your list of top picks under $500. Totally love the variety you’ve got going on there! But I’m kinda stuck on whether I should go for the Squier or the Epiphone Les Paul. I mostly wanna play indie and some classic rock stuff. Which one do you think would suit that vibe better? Would really appreciate your insight, Lewis Turner!