I am an intermediate guitarist and I have an okay guitar and amp combo. I want a Mesa Dual Rectifier head and an ESP SV Standard. I only have enough money for one. Which one should I get first?

Without remarking on my opinion of your choices, I’d say that you should get a good guitar first. Of course that really depends on how adequate your existing equipment is now. Assuming that you can get by with both your existing amp and guitar, I’d go for the guitar of your choice.

Amps come and go, but your guitar is your lady. She inspires you. You caress her with your hands. The amp is just a skirt that makes her look (or sound) good. Find a guitar that makes you feel good and stay with her. And for gosh sakes, don’t choose her for her looks alone. Go to a real guitar store, and play her. Make sure she’s the one. No mail-order brides, please! (sorry musiciansfriend!)