Originally posted by dogmikael European made:
Framus Cobra 1430 new
Framus Dragon 1400 new
Engl Powerball 1200 used, 1600 new
Engl Savage 1100 used
Engl SE 2000 used
Engl Fireball 700 used
Diezel Herbert 2800/3000? new
Diezel Vh4 2500 new
Brunetti XL 700 used
Brunetti 059 1000 used
Laney GH100/50 400/500 used
Laney Vh100 R 600 used
USA made (much more $$$):
Mesa Dual Recto 2200 new 1600 used
VHT Pittbull CL 2200 new 1500 used
VHT UL 3600 new 1800 used????
Bogner Ubershall ????$$$$$$
Peavey 5150 600/700 used
The "price" is just to give an idea of how much the things change if you are on the other side of the ocean...
I think all Europeans face the same dilemma - I certainly did when I was amp shopping not so long ago. It's certainly wise to try as many of the European brands as you can, as they will likely represent better value for money. They're all voiced differently too, some going for a more British voicing, some for a more American sound. In the end, however, I believe you just have to go with the voicing that you fall in love with, and if it happens to be an American amp, then hang the cost. This is what happened to me when I became smitten with the voicing of the Mesa F-50 (I was prepared to shell out for a new Mark IV). I could torture myself with how much the F-series costs across the pond, but I choose to revel in finding the amp that produces the sounds I have in my head. Oh, and consoling myself that many affordable amps here in Europe are often treated as hallowed "boutique" items in the Americas. Other European amps that imho are worth adding to your list are Koch, Hughes & Kettner, Cornford and of course Marshall. On the American side, Peaveys and Riveras are quite affordable over here - don't overlook the Knucklehead, Bonehead, JSX and Ultra amps. Don't overlook other used Mesa amps either (Mark III, IV, DC series etc.). Best wishes in your search. Big smiles, Andy.