mr dave

i wouldn't really bother spending more unless you want to spend a LOT more. the difference between a $350 and a $500 guitar isn't going to be as much as the difference between a $500 and an $800.

this is going to sound odd but if you really want to go for more then i'd get that VOX amp he mentionned and put the rest of the money in a fund towards a new guitar. it helps teach responsibility and money management while working towards a good goal.

also - a cheap guitar through a good amp will almost always sound better than a good guitar through a cheap amp.

so he might find that the Starcaster doesn't necessarily have to be tossed to the curb yet, as well as leaving the choice of what new guitar he wants in his hands (they are the ones that have to play it after all). i find it's always better to try a new instrument first before buying, plus you might have your heart set on something you've seen online or in magazines and then not really like the product when you finally get up close and personal, or there might be something you've never seen or considered in the past hanging up on the wall and just happens to be THE thing for you.

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