Epiphone Les Paul Special II Problems!!?

I used to have the same guitar; just switch to a lower gauge or set the action really low but not so low that you get fret buzz.

You definitely should let a guitar tech set it up for you. It will feel great when they are done with it. Been a few years since I had one set up in 2002 it was about $35.00, so I'm guessing now they are about $45.00. Also you should call around to other guitar repair shops not just Guitar Center. You may find a better deal and a better tech. Just saying. Anyway, you should have an idea of a string gauge that you like, Ernie Ball Super Slinky's for instance, a set of 9's, and they will use those exact strings. That way you get the exact feel that you want. Get it set up man, you'll love it!

Yeah usually about $35 at most local shops including new strings. GC may charge a little more. When you take it in just tell them what gauge strings you want, if you are a beginner maybe go with 9's, and tell them you want low action. When I was first starting I asked for the action to be as low as possible without getting any fret buzz. Now I prefer mine a little higher.