Leaderboard

Personally I'd go for a used guitar, but from a shop so you can try them out. You will probably get a pretty decent Yamaha or Ibenez for that money, they'll last you longer than a new "cheap" brand. The cheap ones are good for a couple of years, but tend to fade rapidly and loose total value. A used branded guitar will probably resell for £50 less than you'll pay in 2-3 years when you're looking to upgrade.

Thanks for the advice folks. It's taken on board As an aside, I picked up a cheap used Yamaha ERG 121 tonight. It's in great condition. I'm loving the string action. It's so much easier to get a decent chord than the acoustic.

This is certainly true, with the proviso that one knows what to look for in a guitar, or are willing to 'take a punt'. Second-hand from a reliable source (family, friends, forum members...) can help boost confidence.

Most definitely used. Yes the cheapy budget stuff is way better than it was 20, 30 years ago when I started. But better quality used stuff for the same money is going to be generally much better. I have two 20+ year old Yamaha basses that cost me £200 and £250 - an absolute steal given the build quality. I must admit I’ve not played a Harley Benton or similar cheap brands. No reason to think they aren’t good. But I suspect the same money on a well chosen used guitar could get you a better instrument.

the Pacifica guitars are fantastic (not just for the money) they can be had very cheap secondhand as well. where in the uk are you? I know of a red Pacifica just like the one you linked to that is surplus to requirements and needing a good home. Matt