Great post @EdwardMarlowe. Very even handed, even for guitars you don't particularly like. A refreshing change from some post I see (not here) where posters just rubbish things they don't like rather than be objective about them - kudos.
@Ando1985. A lot will depend on what type of guitar you want. Something F shaped, then you're looking at the Player/Squier or, as suggested above, something from the JHS Vintage brand. You mention the Revstar and I think these are great guitars and are starting to get some traction with players. However, don't overlook the Pacifica range for something in the super-strat style. Yamaha do not make a bad instrument at any price point IMO. PRS SEs are really good, if you want something in that mould, they're really well built (I've owned one as well as US PRSs) but, as you've noted, they're not a cheap option any more and don't overlook the Sterling by Music Man line if you feel you can stretch your budget to the SE level. Once again the JHS Vintage brand also have offerings for super-starts and PRS type designs. Ultimately, it's best to get out and try some to see what you really want. If these are interim instruments in your guitar journey, then a Fender or Squier will be the easiest to move on without losing a lot of your investment.