I've been thinking about getting a Blues Deluxe Reissue to use as a practice amp at home. Based on the reviews I've read they seem to be a good amp for the money. There are some common complaints, such as a sudden, dramatic increase in volume when the master volume is turned up past 2, so was thinking of getting a mod kit from Fromel Electronics in Seattle (
http://fromelelectronics.com/modificati ... ues-Deluxe) and then adding an Eminence Commonwealth speaker.
In good used condition I've seen BDR's as low as $450-500; new they run about $750. I figure getting a used amp plus having the mods and speaker professionally installed would set me back about $850-900. I'd thought about getting the SMS preamp and 1x12 cabinet with the Eminence Commonwealth (roughly $1,145) but I just don't need that much volume at home as I would like to keep my marriage intact. Still, for the money that may not be a bad way to go. I've also looked at other boutique amps, such as the Carr Rambler, but I can't justify the expense since I'm not playing professionally at the moment. If anyone has any other recommendations for nice practice amps I'd welcome the input; otherwise, I'll probably go with the BDR.