RTP-area local music and culture

[jane <witten AT email.unc.edu>]

ok, i've got a co-worker, whose
son wants to learn to play guitar.
co-worker is willing to spend about
$300 on an electric guitar  (guitar
alone, not including cost of amp).

co-worker does not play guitar, and
has no guitar playing friends to ask
for advice.  i'm a bit concerned
that he might waste his money on a
guitar with bad tone or action, one
that would discourage his son before
he even begins to learn ... any
words of wisdom that anyone can give?

jane