Im saving up for a new guitar, i had my mind set on les paul, but shadow SWEARS that ibanez is better (My guess is that he only thinks so because that's what steve vai uses :\) anyways, which one do you think is better?
for starters Les Paul isn't a brand, it's a model
depends on if you get the Gibson Les Paul (BIG £££££££) or Epiphone Les Paul
If it's what you want go for the Les Paul, the differences won't be THAT noticeable, even an Epiphone Les Paul is really really good quality. The neck is wide and it's heavy however. ;P
I'd get a LP, Ibanez are really nice, but don't be pressured into buying one just because Steve Vai uses one. As amazing a guitarist he is, it's not like he's going to be coming over to criticise you for it.
Remember, any guitar will sound amazing if an amazing guitarist is playing it.
I've had an Ibanez before and I just bought an Epiphone SG G-400 last year. The difference between Ibanez and Gibson/Epiphone guitars is that Ibanez guitar necks tend to be really thin compared to Gibson/Epiphone brands. That's not a bad thing. Some people like thin guitar necks because they find it easier to play, especially when it comes to speed.
I can play as good on my SG as I did with my Ibanez. It depends on what you want. If you are going to buy from a music store you can test both out.
Also the difference between Epiphone and Gibson is the price. Gibson usually has guitars in the thousand dollar price range. While Epiphone offers guitars in the hundred dollar price range that are just as good as the thousand dollar ones.
Plus, if you are just a beginner, you shouldn't spend a ton of money on something if you're going to lose interest. Not that I'm saying that you are going to lose interest.
In all honesty, I would not get an Ibanez. I got one as a present and after a week the finish was peeling and the one of the knobs were falling off. My fiance wasn't very happy about having to return it to Guitar Center. I have never owned a Gibson or Epiphone, but my suggestion would be ESP/LTD..... from experience.
Les Paul alternative:
http://backstage.musiciansfriend.com/Gui...72.product
Ibanez alternative:
http://backstage.musiciansfriend.com/Gui...011000.sku
I actually own that model ^^^, except transparent cherry. Just my opinion......
Oh, yeah if i get one its either gona be cherry red or dark brown
and lol now david claims epiphone is the "Knock off les paul

"
Epiphone Guitars are not knock-offs. Gibson owns the Epiphone brand :)