Maybe the Mexican Teles and Strats are more authentic in a way. The clean channel tone of both of them has always reminded me of Mexico. First thing I do everytime I pick a new one up is play the traditional open E to F-G E Westernish song/thing. I've seen others do that too.

Los Lonely Boys are great, btw.

I think a good guitar-good sounding - good looking - easy playable , is a HUGE inspiration. The OP seems to be fed up with Floyd Rose (which I can understand....) But that doesn't mean it has to be 'top of the line' -US . Get a good MIM, new or used , or , as someone mentioned , Squier CV. I have 2 Fender Teles to choose from . Love them both , but from time to time ,I really lust for playing my Squier Affinity tele . A bit different feel to it , easy to play ,good sounding. ( I should add - it has got one Fender pickup in the neck pos., and a new fender 3-way switch for the pups). Yesterday all my electric playing was with that one. Yes , buy a cheap , good guitar , and a good amp. Although I like some amp simulation-things , I would definitively go for a Tube amp. It does not have to be so big/loud . I would say -try the Excelsior , or Blues Jr . It's your choice and money- go test some......

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A-man

Thanks to everyone for your opinions. I'm going to look into a mexican tele and a nice amp.

Upgrade your amp to a fender supersonic , believe me ,you will never regret it , any guitar will sound good with this amp !