software

I'm going to be purchasing a JSX head in a few months because of the reviews I've read on this forum, other forums, and the fact that I really enjoyed the sound of the XXX and would really like the added versatility that the crunch channel from the JSX would provide as opposed to just being a quot;metalquot; amp. I'm currently running my Spider through a cab and carrying it home and using it as a practice amp. However, I'd really like to downsize to something easier to move around to practice with two side-projects I'm currently working with that are at the moment just me and one other guitarist. SS or Tube doesn't really matter. Just as long as it's cheap and has a relatively good sound. Doesn't have to have as many functions as the Spider's do but I would like to be able to get a good distortion and clean sound out of it. Would you guys think downsizing to a smaller Spider would be the best option? They are pretty cheap or are there better options out there. Anything under 300-500 dollars would be great. I just really need something smaller that will be easier to lug around.

Tech 21 TradeMark 10 still has some good mojo. Used to be $245 online at Black Rose Customs, etc. 3 amp flavors, 3 speaker flavors, really nice spring reverb, direct XLR out, headphone jack, effects loop. Big drawback is nothing controlled by a pedal and you have to remember what settings you like. Still, it's a lot of amp for the $$$.

Chip

I keep rocommending the Roland Cubes. It really is sooo good. Try one.