Quoted from pinkid:

I have had guitars since 1984. Hondo's, BC Riches, and Jacksons. I like different types of music, but prefer classic rock and hard rock. Metal too. I took lessons and learned some basic stuff. I'm mostly a rhythm guy. I need to be better but it frustrates me at times. I have time to practice more now. Main axe is a 82 BC Rich Warlock I've had since 85. It's a keeper.........

Quoted from xsvtoys:

Yes, just like those Ibanez, by the time I figured it out it was too late, now everyone knows and the good ones are held close. From what I heard, there was a time when you couldn't give those things away, they just weren't considered to be worth much being "old" guitars.
I do find some good prospects on Ebay now and then, but to me the used guitars are like pinball machines. I don't really like the idea of buying one without actually seeing it first. Since they are old, there are natural possibilities for wear and tear, and also people have a habit of modifying them over the years. Just like pinballs.

Quoted from xTheBlackKnightx:

Good, solid, starting amplifier that will last and be versatile for a standard player, unless you overdrive it too much.
Not a el crapola cheapo Fender beginner amp, just on the lower end of the price scale overall.
Not a Marshall style "tube" amplifier either, so it is not anywhere near as fragile.
Use headphones to not piss off your neighbors.
Fender Mustang III 100-Watt 1x12-Inch Guitar Combo Amplifier
There is an updated programmed version now.
It will run somewhere between $260-350 in cost, depending if you can get it on sale for the lower side.
Another old saying of mine:
"A good guitar with a cheap amp will sound like #@!$, a poor quality guitar with a good amp can hide some of its flaws."