What is the best tube amp for under $400

[phishlips]

I totally agree with Mr. Forbin on this.  I been using a buddy of mines Jr. for a while and really like it, even for gigs.  Makes me think twice lately about lugging my super around, but then I really think about it and just bring the super :-).  But yeah, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

[Poster]

Iam getting more curious about those chinese hand made tube amps, ceriatone. i heard one of the dumble clones and it was pretty sweet. very bright sounding clean tone, chunky overdrive.

[MomaDan]

I am looking for something in this price range now. I have seen craigslist ads for a Peavey Classsic 50, Mesa Boogie Rocket 44, and a Bugera V22. Anyone have any experience with these amps? or other recommendations

[Happyorange27]

Dan as you can see, this thread had me go with the Blues Jr. I love my amp. I have however enhanced it in many ways. The only thing to be concerned about it is that the gain is a grinding blues type. I keep the volume (pre amp gain) low but sometimes it gets grindy with the tubescreamers on full bore. Otherwise I'm spuing greatness all over myself. Watch some if my You Tube vids.

[phishlips]

yeah, I'm with Happy.  I had a Classic 50.....meh...it was alright.  I mean, that's being a little hard on the amp.  The Classic 50 is a good amp but if I were you I'd keep saving and find a deal on an old Twin, Super, or Deluxe.  Not sure where your at but I'm in northern NJ and know a few guys that seem to constantly have old Fenders coming and going for good prices.  The last amp I bought was for $800, it was an old twin (not sure of the year) and I traded that with these guys for the super that I've been using for the last 5 or 6 years.  I know this probably doesn't help much but it's just my 2 cents.  If your in the area at all I'd be happy to go on a little hunt for ya.

Blues Jr. is a great amp though.

[MomaDan]

Thanks I'm looking into one now. I live in the Orlando area, NJ might be a little far

[picture_of_nectar]

If you look around you can find DRRIs for about $500 used.

That said I have a Blues Jr. with a Celestion vintage 30 speaker and I like it for living room stuff and as a grab and run amp. I suppose you could gig it if you had it mic'd into a decent PA.

[Walker done done]

You can also pick up a used HotRod Delux for around $450.  A great amp.

[MomaDan]

Reporting back now, I ended up buying the Vox AC15CC1 w/ a Greenback speaker. Ive only played it tonight on lower volumes, it sounds amazing even then. I just couldnt pass it up for under $400 As mentioned everywhere the reverb does not sound that great but I might replace it in the future. Now the quest for pedals begins

[picture_of_nectar]

Reporting back now, I ended up buying the Vox AC, Now the quest for pedals begins

Congrats, I like Vox amps....but beware the pandoras box that is pedal GAS!!!