Thanks for the opinions and information everyone.
Stingx, which ever you decide, I think it'll be a good rig.
Spud, that's what I thought also, "clean" crunch and distortion.
Eric, not everyone will like the same distorted tones, I appreciate your opinion, and thanks for taking the time my friend.
Muddy............OK, OK, I love y'all too, here's the thing.......if me taking the blame gets you the amph, go for it. I don't think your Mrs would come all the way up here to give me a black eye for being a bad influence on you.
jim p, thanks for the info. I didn't think 4 EL84's could generate 50w, but I honestly wasn't sure. I actually don't need over 30w for the few gigs I do occasionally nowadays. As for the preamp distortion, I've come to the conclusion OD and distortion either sounds good..........or it doesn't..........regardless of where it comes from. I thank you for taking the time, and for your insight and knowledge.