I’m currently considering upgrading from my current electric guitar, a dirt cheap beginner’s Epiphone Les Paul (it’s the next model up from the Model 100).
I’ve set a budget of about $1500, just to keep myself from going hog wild. I have very large hands, play a fair number of dad rock covers mostly, and occasionally derp around with a few other musicians in the neighborhood.
I’ve played around with and liked both the standard Mexican Stratocaster, and found the PRS Custom 24 to be an enjoyable guitar to play. I’m wondering if there’s another model I need to consider, as I’m planning this as a Christmas present to myself.
Honestly if you picked up a guitar that felt good to play that’s in your price range just buy it dude. I have a few Mexican and American fenders and love them all. Can’t go wrong with a PRS either, you might find one with coil tapping that will get you more tonal options.
I’m going to add on that it’s important to just go out and try as many different guitars as you can. Try to use the amp closest to yours if not exactly yours. It’s very easy to lust after a certain guitar from historical vibes and online reviews only to get it in your hands and find out that you just cannot click with it.
I tend to use a modeler over amps. So making that happen isn’t too terribly hard. I’ve even been taking it in to the guitar stores, because it fits in my music bag.