Marnold, don't get bummed out. I think I can get pretty good tone out my '51 and 300 dollar amp, does anyone else think so? If can, so can anyone else. I would think it is more valuable for a guitarist to spend time developing playing skills than thinking about how much they should spend on their equipment.

Hey, I think I even have a bit of "status" as a decent player who uses super cheap gear! I don't mind that. I don't care, as long as I am happy with what I've got. I could be happier with some super sweet expensive gear, but I'm pretty close to where I want to be sound wise, so I'm not complaining. I can't afford that kind of gear yet anyhow. Some day though, I might get more high end stuff, but it'll take some time before I get there.

Hope this makes sense. I would never complain about anyone who uses nice, expensive gear. Good for them - I wish I had all the "bling bling" equipment too.