[Cheesehead]

Good advice Tdot, except I think Erik should skip the Squier. Fender MIM Standard is a big leap from the Squier - and I agree that the Classics are worth the extra money. Also, the Vox Valvetronix amps are nice amps, but are not true tube amps. I upgraded to a Blues Jr. and liked it a lot better. But like you said, TRY BEFORE YOU BUY!