You have $535 to buy a new guitar - what do you get?

I think Epiphone released their version of the ES-339 around 2012, so it's gotta be the last three years or so. The ad didn't specify year. And just ran out of gear funds, so the point is moot for me anyways. I just wanted commiseration.

mccreadyisgod said:

Epiphone ES-339. Because I've been wanting an ES-339 since Gibson released them about seven or eight years ago, and the Epiphone version has been pretty well reviewed. And considering the Gibson version is now exceeding $2,000... the Epi version seems like a steal at $470. Or you can pick up the natural-finish P-90 version for $350 (the P-90 version ranges up to $430 depending on finish). If I got the Epi version, I might lean toward getting the P-90 version and upgrading to Fralin pickups. If you get the cheapest 339 at $350, and the Fralin pups are $180 a set, you get away with a killer guitar for $530, skating right under the limit.

Then again, these are my own, VERY personal tastes and preferences.

There are a lot of killer guitars to be had in the $500 range, so it's not easy to pick one. Then again, I probably wouldn't spend $535 on a guitar right now; I'd probably save up and get the Gibson like I've been planning on getting for years. I have a few guitars already, so I'm not in any hurry to pick something up. Do you have a reason to get a guitar RIGHT NOW for the specific amount you have to spend? Or are you just GASing with money to burn?

Good choice! THe Epiphone Dot is a great guitar for under $500 as well.

At this point I would hope to find a Fender Standard Telecaster for $535. They go for more but I would take cash with me and hold it out to the salesperson and say, "This is what I've got. Do we have a deal?" I base this choice also with the consideration that I could find one that feels and sounds right. I looked at and played a Tele in a shop several years ago that felt and sounded fantastic and was only $250 new but at the time I didn't have the money. I should have bought it anyway. Oh well.

I would also consider a Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Electric Guitar Vintage White which can be found for under $400. I would choose this one purely based on the fact of being a Mascis FANATIC!