H140 vs. H150

[KRockMI]

I'm slowly shopping for a used Heritage solid body, probably either an H140 or H150. Not an expert, started playing again early this year so I haven't played many to know exactly what I like best yet. I have tried a new H140 and H110, was told the 140 had an "early 60's neck". The neck felt great, the guitar was really easy to play, not too heavy and the tone was far better than the Ibanez Les Paul clone I have now. It seems the used 140's are less expensive than the 150's, why is that? How much do they vary from one to another in the same model?

 

Unfortunately there aren't many available locally in SE MI stores to try, so I'll likely end up buying online. In the forums many have bought before trying. So my last question is how do you all know what to buy without trying first?

Thanks fo your help,

Tim

[FredZepp]

It should be mentioned that there is a H-140 First Edition and a Second Edition. The First Edition has a pointed cutaway and does have a different look that the 150. The Second Edition is more rare probably and looks like a 150 , just thinner. They have made various versions of the 140 and 150 over the years with slightly different features. There is not really a quality difference, but the first edition 140's tend to sell for less, probably because they don't replicate the familiar Les Paul look as closely and most of them are older also. I have both and would advise that either is a well crafted instrument that is a great value.

[lazarusvt84]

As a lefty, trying before buying is a way of life as few stores carry lefties. I have the benefit of a righty-playing son who I tend to follow his lead in terms of what sounds good. One way to reduce risk is to buy used so that should you not like what you get, you can resell for about what you paid and not lose your shirt. I also tend to buy only what I can return...unless I'm buying from someone I know/trust. I've also learned to stick with brands I know make quality instruments that sound/play great...(G, F & H for instance,)...consistent with the kind of music I enjoy playing. I bought a couple of Chinese-made Hagstroms, which were actually very well made, but sound sterile...returned/sold them. I also toyed with another brand which I'm too embarrassed to mention...returned it after 5 min of play and had to listen to my son's chiding for weeks. CL can be a great place to find great deals (and sell stuff too)...but I've bought the majority of my guitars off eBay (so far so good).