Where should you find your gear?
If you happen to live close by a local guitar store then give them your patronage if possible.  They will prove to be a great resource to you.  A good store sets up all its guitars as part of the service and they will be there if something is not right.  Now if you aren't in that situation or if your local store doesn't carry the products you want then here are two companies that I've purchased alot of gear thru:  Rondo Music is a family owned business of excellent quality products at very low cost.  Musicians Friend is a giant company that carries just about everything at the best prices.