I’m not sure there’s any single best, and certainly not the price range of anyone who has to ask .

But seriously… it’s something of a personal choice. I think you should figure out what your budget is (and of course, if you’re pure acoustic at this point you’ll need an amp, at least, and perhaps a few pedals eventually), then try out a number of different models in your price range.

What kind of sound are you after… do you have a particular target style or artist? Do you like single coil or humbucking pickups? Does it feel comfortable… too heavy, too light? Are you after long sustain (heavier woods) or not so much. You might want to read up on the style you’re most interested in playing.

But also very definitely go to a music store and try it out… the sound is one thing, but only in part due to the guitar; the amp, the cabinet, any FX pedals you might add, all add to the sound you’re going to get. And the feel is also very important… does the guitar feel right to you. That’s based on weight, control layout, fingerboard materials and thickness, etc.

For the record… I play a Line 6 Variax in addition to my Martin D15. It’s essentially Stratocaster shaped, but models many different guitar sounds. And I’m seriously thinking of buying a real Les Paul sometime soon…