nmt1, that Ibenhad (oops, Ibanez

) looks like a good beginner, that can take you further. I liked my Ibanez until my lead singer jumped on it and broke the neck (long story)grr
musicians friend has that with a gig bag for $229 i think.
you next will need an effects unit, and I recommend a Zoom 505. It has all of the distortions, delays, ghorus/flange, reberbs, etc... that you will need. You should be able to get one of these on ebay for about $60.
ebay search-zoom 505
http://search.ebay.com/search/search...query=zoom+505
I will get back at ya with an amp.
