That's a great choice Alex. While it may be a little more than you were hoping to spend he will be using that amp for many years to come so is well worth the extra. The Hot Rod Deluxe has a great tone and is very versatile.

Although it is 40 watts it is a powerful little amp. I have used one for years with my band and I never really get the volume control much past 2. We have a drummer playing an electronic V-Drums kit which does help keep the level down but the Hot Rod Deluxe is quite capable of cutting through the mix with an acoustic kit. I have had 100 watt Marshall amps when I was younger and found them to be too loud ie. I couldn't run them into distortion easily without deafening everyone. I find it is much better to have a smaller amp that you can run harder without overpowering everyone in the band.


[This message has been edited by Nigel (edited 10-30-2005).]