[FrankenTex]

I elected to get a MIM Classic Series '60s Tele (New $610) mainly because I am a total newbie and didn't want to become a mechanic ... just want to focus on learning to play rather than getting my ax to play right.

You (apparently) can find some good deals in pawn shops and on eBay and right here on "our" (Paul Green's) "Garage Sale". You will need to know how to identify different models. It would help greatly to have an expert mentor to shop with you and play it, check the action and setup, etc.

If you want a used one and don't want to do any (many) mods, I would suggest some of the following models for under $680 (new). In order of my preference . . .

(1) Fender Classic Series '60s Telecaster (MIM)
(2) Fender Artist Series "Muddy Waters" Signature Tele.
(3) Fender Classic Series '50s Telecaster (MIM)
(4) Fender MIJ Blue Flower or Paisley Tele ('tronics?)
(5) Fender Standard Telecaster (MIM) (Play it B4 buying)
.
AS ALWAYS ... SOMEONE CORRECT ME IF I AM OFF BASE