[Noodler]

I've never, ever heard a bad word about the Vox Valvetronix. It's probably the best of the solid state amps. Yes it does have one valve in it, but only to help modelling be more realistic. It's a great compromise between volume, cost, tone, etc.

My experience with Line 6 is this: "With presets dialed in by some of the world's leading guitarists." It's gimmicky and marketing-rich and great for high-gain metal, and even cleans but not for that touch-sensitive in-between overdrive/bluesy stage.

Another thing about valve amps is that if you're used to playing through a solid state amp, they are more dynamic and touch sensitive. If you hit a note harder it might become overdriven. So when you plug into a tube amp, you've got to improve your technique because they are as a rule more touch sensitive... which is more fun when you are used to it.

There is a certain high frequency thinness that all solid state amps still have, but if you don't know what I mean, then don't find out! Just buy a Valvetronix or Cube or something and be happy. Lots of nice sounds to be had.

What the others have said is right. I have two valve amps and they never get above about 3...without complaints anyway. I get my dirt from pedals mostly. Tube amps are very loud. I recommend pedals like the Boss OD3 and the MI Audio Blues Pro for overdriven tones if you go for solid-state. If you can find a TS808, even better for that in-between tone.

Oh, yeah, beware of the rubbish on the internet. Some people insist that only valve amps are any good, but they'll also tell you that you need to modify every pedal you buy to improve its sound, etc. Look up "rotren" on youtube. He uses a Valvetronix in lots of his vids and cheap pedals and sounds great.