Thanks to you all for your advice. I changed the strings, no problem and the difference is unbelievable. I will now change on a regular basis, for the...

All kinds, but I do lean toward a Black Sabbath, Neil Young, Ian Dury style.

Thanks for the tip. As to the guitar/amp, I have never owned an electric. I would like a decent one, same with the amp. I suppose around $300 or so ea...