I tried out the Valve King at Thorold Music. I'd say that for metal especially, you simply can't get more amp for the money. It has a good range of tones, and a lot of cool features. I can't vouch for how well made it is, or the quality of the components used, but it certainly looked well put together. One weird thing about it, is that the effects loop sockets are on the front. Kinda odd methinks. I believe Thorold are selling them for a tad over $500. When I consider I paid almost $500 for my crappy solid state Peavey Bandit 112 back in 1987, versus what is available now, I want to cry!!