It's not so much the cost but what sounds and feels good to play. When I got back into playing (after 40 years), I bought an Epiphone Les Paul Plus Top Pro. But, after receiving two with quality issues on the finish, I gave up and bought a Gibson Les Paul (for twice the money).

But, I'm sure I would have been happy with the Epiphone had I been sent one that wasn't flawed in the finish because it played well and sounded great. In retrospect, I would have been smarter to go in person to a store and pick one out but just didn't have the extra time during that period. That is what I would do now if I were ever to buy another guitar. But, at 64, I think that the one that I have now will last me for a long time!