Crates seem to have a lousy reputation as amps that people like the sound of when they've been playing for four months before graduating to a "real" amp sound. I'm not entirely sure how much that is merited, seeing as some people swear by them, but I know I've never been tempted to go out and get one.
I do know a few guys who really like Crate's more upscale stuff and have no desire to go elsewhere.