well, i started on a cheap strat copy and had no problems. realistically you're looking at a new squier or a second hand mexican if you go for a strat-type model. if you go for something les paul shaped it'll be a cheap copy again....epi's and tokai's are a bit pricier than you're willing to pay but solid instruments. apart from acoustics, they're the only two styles i've played so you're probably best asking around (ice or jim?)