Re: Thanks everyone! Keep it coming... :) (n/t)

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: i wouldnt bother with new pickups. i would go find a another guitar you might like. depends on the monsy you have to spend on what though. : marshalls are good (mostly) ....mesa boogie (my personal fav) : i played some johnsons that were nice if you want to go with the modeling thing. all the effects are right there in the amp. : check out acoustic/electrics on a website like musicans friend or something. Just about all the brands have them now. : : : Happy Holidays Everyone, : : : I've been playing guitar for over a decade now, and I'm still completely ignorant when it comes to buying new gear. The time has come for me to make several major purchases, and I could really use some advice. As you all know, trying gear out in the store is next to useless because every piece of the chain influences your sound... so I could really use some suggestions on the following items: : : : Oh, let me preface this by mentioning that I play mostly power/prog metal (e.g. spiral architect, dream theater, nevermore), and am looking for gear that suits this style. : : : (1) ELECTRIC GUITAR: Since around 1990 I've been using an Alvarez Dana Scoop. I'm debating whether I should install new pickups or buy a new guitar. Any suggestions as to which route I should take? What are the best pickups for the job? What are the best guitars for power/prog in the $900-$1300 price range? : : : (2) HALF-STACK: I've been using a Crate GX212 for practice, but its clear that I'm going to need something more powerful (and with a better sound) for live shows. I don't want to bankrupt myself, but I also don't want to skimp on my purchase and regret it for years to come... so I'd really appreciate some suggestions on what the best gear would be in terms of value/quality. : : : (3) ELECTRIC/ACOUSTIC CLASSICAL: I'd also appreciate some advice on the best models of electric/acoustic classical under $700. : : : Many thanks!! : : : -oliver-