I know next to nothing about the different Marshall's out there. I saw some 1974's out and about recoently... and they look good. I've heard the Jubilee's thanks to our resident Tone Guru (T2TB), and I have to admit it is a great sounding amp. They don't come cheap, but with anything in this world... you get what you pay for (most of the time).
I'd imagine they hold their value pretty well, so cost of owning one might not be too bad if you did decide to part ways in a few years.
If buying the Crate delays your purchase of what your heart truly desires... I might be inclined to hold off and make the purchase that really floats your boat. If the Crate inspires you, and fits your current needs... then why not.
Gearlist:
Electric: Ibanez 'AS103', Fender Dlx Nash Pwr Tele, Fender Squier '62 JV Strat, Squier '51, Squier 60's Classic Vibe Strat, Epi Elite LP Studio, Hagstrom Swede Acoustic: Larrivee LV-03RE, A&L AMI, Yamaha FG340-T Bass: Yamaha BB 450 Amps: Roland JC-120, JC-50, Peavey Classic 30, Fender Super Champ XD Pedals: Marshall Guv'nor Plus, Danelectro Cool Cat Drive, Transparent Overdrive, Digitech Digiverb, Bad Monkey, Ibanez TS-9, Boss AC-2, CE-5, CS-2, DD-3, DF-2, DS-1, FV-100, GE-7, OC-2, PSM-5, SD-1, TU-2, DVM~BYOC 'Lush Puppy' Chorus