Thought I would revive this thread.
Two years into playing guitar and I'm still in hard core learn mode. I'm past the "wondering if I will stick with it mode", apparently am committed.

I started out with a Fender Squier Affinity starter guitar and I am really now hungering for a better instrument. All of the $1000+ guitars I've played at the store sound great, much more so than my starter. If I can afford $1700 for a guitar, I really don't see a purpose for purchasing a $700 guitar as a stepping stone. Is there agreement on this?
I realize we have forum members from all over, so I don't want to sound like a snob, but I'm really leaning towards something made in the States. Not that I am buying based on investment potential, but my understanding is that U.S. made guitars as compared to Oriental made versions of brand names hold their value better. I realize there is also more to it than just where it it made. The higher priced guitars that just happen to be made in the States have better tonal qualities and better features (as far as I know). Any comments or disagreement on this?
Right now I am looking at four possible upgrades:
1) Fender American Stratocaster Deluxe. (approx $1500)
2) Gibson Les Paul Studio (approx $1300)
3) Gibson Les Paul Standard (approx $1900-2500)
4) PRS Mira (approx $1700)
Ok, so who prefers what? If it is not on the list feel free to mention.
I really don't see myself spending more than the Mira which btw I find very attractive, playable, and sounds great. I also like the Fender. And while I am attracted to the Gibson sound, I have a very hard time justifying over $2000 for the Gibson LPS. Regarding the Gibson LPS, looking for someone who has played the less expensive Oriental made Epiphones. I see Epiphones priced from $300-$900. How do they sound compared to their higher priced siblings? And how would you compare the LP Studio to the LP Standard? Granted I need to spend more time at the store playing them.