If you want to shred? Forget about the LP-100......
If you need a semi-heavy sounding guitar? Go for an LP Standard.....

LP-100 would only sound decent with new pickups......
I swapped mine out for EMGs and it was my work horse for many a year.....

I now use it as my down-tuned guitar (all the way to Dm) with thick strings and put through a wall of overdrive..... sounds good for a metal guitar.

Would suggest maybe an Ibanez RG series guitars instead for your budget.......

Agreed to that.......
I semi-regretted getting the LP-100, but at my budget that time, I think it did the job.........

But since you want to open your world to guitars, get that RG 321ex...... good price and a better guitar for versatility.

Get the LP-100 only if you just want a down and dirty guitar....... with the proper modifications of course.......and that will add to the cost again.