Re: Which guitar to pick?
Well, first of all, I'm sure Chappers would love to hear about your interest.
Let me first say that, if you consider yourself to still be "kind of new to guitars" I think it's both awesome that you're looking to grow and that you're asking good questions.
I've played Telecasters since 1989, and they have a very special place in my heart and my collection. Having said that, I have 2. I also have 2 Les Pauls, and 4 Strats, and various others. Life is funny. But I've always considered a modern Tele to be a great guitar to learn on. Even in the Squier CV to MIM range you can get very good quality and tone.
I also like, if I dare suggest you are student of the guitar (as am I and everyone else who hasn't given up), that the guitars you are considering are fixed bridge instruments with good hardware. (Ok, I've heard mixed things about Chapman, but those seem to be based on the line and investment). But still, a guitar that takes a bit of abuse and stays in tune is a really good thing.
I've never been an SG guy myself. I built a *****in' budget Angus copy for a client once, but I never could get used to the balance of the light body/heavier neck. It's not a bad guitar at all.
To me, it seems, aside from brands, the question is single or double coil pickups, and there's the rub. Both mainstream and alt rock (current and classic) have been successfully played on all kinds of pups. A Tele is going to be less common for mainstream rock performers, but unless you are buying high end, even an American Standard is going to offer broader and more flexible tones than an early reissue (nocaster, broadcaster, etc.).
And, it goes without saying, achieving the tone you want is in the guitar, the amp, and your hands. There is a world of variations, and that's why I'm told I have too many guitars and I fiercely believe I have far too few guitars. And even fewer amps!
So, Tele, think "chime", "rattle", "buzz", "honk", all in a good way. If you drive em, they can give a mainstream and classic rock sound (Billy Squier, etc.) and they are amazing for blues and country influenced rock (Rolling Stones). As for the SG, it's warm, rich, thick, and when you drive it she can be dirty or creamy. (If you consider a Les Paul you get even more, with extra sustain to boot.) SGs aren't just played by Angus Young, but from everyone from blues legends of old to vintage metal like Tipton from Judas Priest. You can get a lot out of it.
In the end, I hope I was encouraging and you feel inspired, because to really make a decision, you need to get on your feet. I strongly recommend you play and hear anything you buy. Even if you don't buy the one in the shop, though I recommend doing so. (Every instrument is different, so if you find the one that feels and sounds just right, I don't risk being disappointed by the same sku# from the net and getting something made a year later that just doesn't have the same magic.)
Trust your hands and your ears. And when you decide and bring that puppy home, let us know!
Best of luck!
