i am taking note of all the suggestions mentioned here.. to be honest. i am keeping them because I just wanted to have the flexibility of experimenting on different "tones" a guitar can give.. im starting to believe that no similar guitar type will sound the same...
Aside from the regular practice and playing, I am still in the process of learning the technical part of owning a guitar (parts, adjustments, tones, sounds, etc). Although I have yet to own a Gibson and a PRS, I am so far enjoying my Epis, Fender, Squier and Tokai's. I think i'll revolve around those brands for the meantime since yun lang ang kakayanin ng budget... =)
That's why going to a reputable luthier will be a good start for me... coz by then, I will earn additional knowledge...
My quest for that "tone" that will satisfy the inner workings of my senses will be continuous. =)
you're right when you say no two guitars of the same type will sound the same, though the sound profile of course is similar.
The biggest tone shapers (aside from anything else a luthier will have to make like the wood, headstock/nut break angle, neck joint, etc.) are pickups and pots. after that, the nut, bridge/saddles, and the shielding, which all need more discerning ears to distinguish the change in tone. the fretwork and setup won't really change the tone, but it will make sure the guitar plays well, sounds in tune, and resonates well.
but then after all that's done, nasa workmanship and quality na ng guitar itself, the superior sound of a better built guitar is the result of the sum of its parts. there's a reason why most people never really mess with their american fenders and gibsons and keep them stock.
be careful though, baka mapagastos ka nang malala sa tone hunting at study ng technical aspects ng guitar