Gibson155

Ditch amp modelling and built in effects and just get a simple, no-nonsense tube amp. In other words, spend the money where it'll actually affect the sound quality, not where it's going towards more 'stuff'. The Epiphone Valve Junior is a great little value and can be modded later on to compete with more high end stuff. There are a few others in that price range as well that are worth a look. It'll sound great right away if you get the head version and find a used cab with a Celestion Greenback or Vintage 30 (speakers have the biggest effect on tone if you ask me). And with a V30, you may be surprised at how loud it gets! Remember, versatility comes from your playing style, not from the amount of knobs on the amp. Some stomp-boxes can help (an overdrive pedal and a volume pedal (get an optical one!) are very nice to have) but ultimately if you want to sound a certain way, you need to play a certain way. Focus on that and just get an amp that sounds good. So true. Possibly spend a little more money on a used Classic 30.