Re: What Tele Would You Get?
CM, talking about tone is like dancing about archetexture. You've given a fairly broad spectrum of musical influenes ( and good on you for that). Looking at merely one act on your list ( let's take Mr. Marr of The Smiths ... another unheralded genius), we can say that he uses various guitars for various projects. The sound most associated with him is that of a Rickenbacker ( ...and don't quote me, but I think it's a 330). Still, when I last saw him play in public, he had a Gibson SG in hand. Two vastly different tones ...for two vastly different gigs.
A Tele is a great, no-excuses, straight-up guitar. Playing a Tele, it shows if you have the goods (or not). Don't rely on me or anyone else to advise you on which one to pick. If you plan on dropping eight hundred pounds on a guitar, take the time and effort to try out EVERY guitar that tickles your fancy. I'd even say reduce your budget by fifty pounds and spend the rest on travel to experiement with these axes.
Hie thee to the nearest shop of any size and try 'em out. Use the amplifier which you intend to match with the guitar, if at all possible ; if not, find a close match at the shop where you're experiementing.
Who's to say here what makes your match ? I have no idea the size of your hands nor the lenght of your fingers. I don't know how strong your back to support the beast you have wrapped around your back by a two inch strap. Sorry, but that's your decision.
All of that having been said...just look for a straight neck, true intonation, quality tuners & finish. There is (IMHO) never an excuse for poorly dressed frets. Other than that, look for what suits you now, and what you feel will suit you in years to come.
