WTF!!! I just typed in a long, long, long help for your $500 guitar question and, poof, it disappeared when I hit the Post button. Summary: Check all of your local guitar stores and try all of those within your price range. Check the fretwork, action, construction, weight (heavier woods=better tone+sustain). Play up and down neck in every pickup position, checking intonation and playability, on the same/similar amp that you use. Don't forget to look for used/scratch&dent guitars. These can be a real bargain. BeatYourSoul