[LSemmens]

As far as sound goes, that is a personal choice. I like the warmer sounds of my Ibanez Blazer. Pickups can be changed if you don't like what you hear. As far as playability is concerned, try a few and see what you are comfortable with. I like the Strat style body, but could never warm to a Strat for playability. Always wanted a Les Paul but having tried to play (albeit a clone) one I found that I could not cope with the weight of the body. I do play Bass so overall weight is not my problem, I just could not cope with the balance. Don't lock yourself into a particular Brand as you may find that a cheaper Squire Strat might serve you as well as the equivalent Fender (e.g.)