[Doug 54]

the Chinese/Indonesia CHEAP important issue is simple AND complex.

3 yrs ago looking for solid wood cello upgrade for our daughter---the Chinese stuff was the only one within our $$$ realm---BUT I was VERY suspicious.

I called a fine string shop and talked to their repairman at length (rather, he was willing to expound in great detail): He was of the experienced belief---as far as string/symphony instruments---Chinese stuff can be great--with more hand crafting than other country's instruments, not even close to their $ range.
But, sometimes there are inconsitnecies, or set-ups may run you $$ high enough, that it isn't worth it.
He said you have to eval it IN PERSON.

What I have seen w the guitars is some very good maching/alignment. On some, the fret level is great---others may need levelling. Fret polish is usually good.
Of course components are cheap---but easily replacable---no biggie.
Body wood: Hey, most are 3 piece ($900 Fender Am STDs are 3 piece) and usually light BUT the kind of wood is questionable. Alot I don't think are the traditional light basswood. A repairman friend thinks it the local/area wood they use, whatever is convenient.

So, the old test of playing in person too see thru how it will sound, esp after pup upgrade is the test!!!

I have a Chinese/ or Indonesian Strat copy w a GREAT neck--flat radius, lg frets. But it needed level/crown.
The body is 3 piece-whatever AND very light and acoustically resonant---BUT fair on elec sound.

That's OK. Was $85.oo used!!!!

Of course there is the moral issue of the potential of virtual slave Chinese labor ( a friend thinks alot of stuff might be made by prisoners). That's a Wal-Mart thing, right...??