I am $400 close, but need another $600. My b-day is coming up, I hope I get lucky. Also, I may be getting a new job soon, so half of my earnings will be set aside for this. I refuse to do the no payment until a year later deal. You have no idea what will come up in your life(college for me) and can affect whether you have the money then or not. SO this will be all through hard work. I also plan to get these 2 pickups to add to it. http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/DiM arzio-DP213-PAF-Joe-Satriani-Pickup?sku=309373 http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/DiM arzio-DP216-Mo-Joe-Bridge-Pickup-?sku=309382 Then the guitar will be good enough for me. I then need to upgrade to a new amp, as the one I currently have is great, but only good for rehearsal or practice. But that will be awhile yet, I plan to get something actually good.