i'd say the gsz120 is a tad better then gax series. i dunno, maybe just me.

anyway, either follow quarantined's advice, or gamble on your own. the good part of having an experienced friend with you is he can tell a good guitar from a bad one. the bad, he maybe bias to certain brand .

in general, just pick the one with the sound that you like....with the best looks...and most importantly, the best feel to you. it's stupid to buy a flying V just because some artist use it although you are uncomfortable with the design.