Hey, I've always wanted a Les Paul really bad, and I was wondering if it is true that when you get a Gibson, you pay extra for the name on the headstock. I've heard a lot of people say that Epiphones are just as good; and even better, they're a heck of a lot cheaper. Is it just a matter of finding a well made/good sounding Epiphone? Or is this just a myth? I've never really gone out and played either, because the price scares me away... I'd like to know if there is still hope for us budget players, or if I'll have to live a little less luxuriously in the next few months, in order to save up .

PS Which type of Les Paul do you recommend (Custom, Standard, Standard Plus, Classic, etc.)