As far as effects go, Digitech and Boss are both very good companies that produce very good multi FX processors. Basically man, my philosophy is (although I happen to be pretty well off) buy expensive, quality stuff that will last you a lifetime. However that doesn't mean you have to spend 2000 dollars on an FX rig. However, if you're looking to get something very decent and somewhat professional, I would recommend the DigiTech RP2000. The cool thing about Digis is that you can download patches off the internet and slap them into your effects processor, so you basically tap into a neverending supply of new and interesting effects. Here's a link to the RP-2000:
http://www.digitech.com/products/productpgs/rp2000.htm
It goes for about 300 dollars on
www.musiciansfriend.com , and it's well worth it! Here's a link to that.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/ex/shop/home/010503034358207014190157844844?pid=150170
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Semi Acoustic Guitars
You're going to notice a difference between not necessarily the SOUND but the playability as the price goes up in acoustics. Also, not to ignore the sound, many acoustics - the more expensive types - have very thick and quality sounds, whereas the cheaper ones sound more tinny and less "full". For a mid range acoustic, I'd recommend something by Alvarez. They make good stuff. Ovation is also an OK - but merely OK - company for acoustics. They make very cheap guitars, with plastic and stuff. But definitely, a good, quality, mid-range guitar (in my opinion) will be made by Alvarez. Washburn is also a good company to look into. And, if you feel like getting THE BEST guitar out there and you have enough money to spare to by an extra car, you should pick up a Martin. They're handmade by guitar craftsmen - much like how Ferraris are hand built by car "craftsmen", and are simply the best. That's also my opinion. I inherited my Martin from my Grandfather who died about two years ago, who was also rather well off - But his guitar is about 26 years old - a Vintage Martin, and it's been appraised at 15,000 dollars. That's the kinda quality Martin will give you - they gain in value as they get older. That's pretty much the spectrum you're dealing with!
Hope I could help you out man, music rules.
