I used to think it better to go cheap when starting something new in case you end up quitting it, so it isnt a big waste. But with guitars the more you spend the better off you will be. Everything feels better, sounds better, easier to play. 20 years ago I bought a BC Rich Platinum Series. Kind of a cheaper design. My bud spent the extra on a real BC Rich. There was a huge difference in the hardware. Mine didnt hold up. Mine cost 400 bucks. His was closer to 1000 I think. Then again I thought I was Metallica,Slayer,and Anthrax all rolled into one. Played it hard.