I own some Fenders and Gibsons, but over the last couple of years, Harley Benton produces very good guitars that are very affordable.
I have one of their telecasters, and it’s on par with a squier or a cheap fender, provided that you get it set up properly.
When I got to that cheap telly, I initially had planned to replace the pick ups, but guess what, the stock pick ups are good actually.
For amps, that strongly depends on your personal taste, but usually you go used. For example, if you’re into metal, you can get Peavey ValveKings for low $, they just require a good speaker. There are also several cheap clones available. YouTube has you covered with demos.
Also, digital amps have become good enough, even those software only, for example GarageBand.
You just need some audio interface.
Imagine archeologists in 1000 years unearthing one of those and trying to figure out its purpose or cultural meaning… (and no, your data won’t survive)
I’ve seen several videos by reputable fixers that demonstrate empty NANDs working fine with DFU factory restore.
Same situation on Mn MacBooks.
Would be weird in the actual mass production process if the flash would need to be pre-programmed somehow; one DFU process IMO must be able to do everything needed.