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I just checked out a Gamp;L S-500 Tribute.

It is an HSS configuration (Humbucker switchable to a single coil) using their own Gamp;L Pups. Maple / Rosewood neck amp; Swamp Ash body.

From what the salesperson told me it is Korean assembled of all US parts. They are asking $450 w/ a gig bag.

He also said it is far superior to a MIM Strat in all regards and the electronics are comparable if not better than an American Series Strat. Sales-speak or truth?

I really liked it. It sounded and felt great.

So...

Is this a good deal? Is a Korean assembled guitar a safe bet? Opinions of Gamp;L in general?

(PS I've only been playing for about 6 months and am moving up from an Ibanez RG270)

Thanx!

$450 for a tribute is a rip off. I've seen US Legacy's go for around that used. While there is nothing wrong with Korean guitars, the US ones are simply better guitars and that price definitely isn't a deal. Some US Legacy's (the Deluxe series?) come with swamp ash bodies.

I always thought the prized S-500's had mahogany bodies? Anywho, scrap the Tributes and save a little extra for the real thing, you'll appreciate it down the road, just my .02.

I played a couple of Tributes a couple of months ago. They play really well, and the pickups sound awesome. If you like it, go for it!

I wouldn't know how much a good deal would be in the States however

Tributes? Very good. American Gamp;L? Among the best. What he said is true though. I'm not sure on the price. MF has it for $489. I forget how much they're going for at my local store, but they have some Premium Tributes for $350.

You can get American Gamp;Ls for cheap used, but be quick... they're getting more popular as we speak.

My new main guitar is a Gamp;L Legacy Deluxe, and I love it. I put a trem C-5 and 2 Fender Fat 50's in it. I agree with the above posts about seeking out a used American version, since they depreciate quite a bit. Used, I see tributes going for $389 and American versions going for $550. If it's less than a $200 difference, the choice is simple.

And in case you didn't already know....Gamp;L was founded by the owner of Fender and the shop floor manager of Fender.....Leo Fender and George Fullerton...hence George and Leo.