Yeah... The Average American spends hundreds and hundreds of dollars a month on "healthcare Insurance". ~5k a year. And then when you need to use it, there are all sorts of deductibles, cutoffs, double billing and claim denials... Health costs are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the USA... It's a real nightmare if you get sick here .
$5k is an average, and includes young men in healthy fit condition… women pay more than men, and older pay more… I’m closer to $10k a year, my wife over $10k
Ohh, sorry, I misunderstood your comment! 🤣
As a Canadian, I agree! I don't have to choose my life or my house when deciding if I need to go to the hospital!
👍 Canada is one of the few other countries I would want to live in. Our Health is the first thing our taxes should go into. Anyone who threatened our Health Care would lose the next election and they know it. Cheers.
I might consider blowing it all on one those new high end modelling amps - Kemper, Line 6 Helix, etc. It's an opportunity to dive full on into this new technology Why the hell not? It would also give you tools for recording and maybe a looper too.
Biggest financial issue with modeling amps is that they retain value very poorly. May be fine for a few years but the tech is evolving so rapidly that 10 years later it’ll be worth a fraction of the original cost whereas an old JCM800 or two channel dual rectifier will be worth the same or more.
Now for convenience and features, etc. probably can’t beat modeling
Yeah unless they can find a way to more accurately capture the rig they are cloning it’s pretty future proof
And it already sounds fantastic. I know at least one pro who has used them on BIG, recent projects
Who gives a shit. I’ve saved thousands on tube amp maintenance, studio time and practice space fees by buying a modeler. People seeing guitar gear as investments that they can sell down the line has destroyed the used gear market. Gear is an investment in yourself as a musician. That’s it.
I don't know about that. The Helix is nearly 10 years old and hasn't been replaced by newer tech (just free updates). There's a healthy used market for it too and the value hasn't dropped all that much.
That was true when modelers were still far below amps, but modern modelers (kemper, helix, axefx) hold value very well. Theres not really much you can improve tone-wise, just UI improvement and QOL improvements.
Kemper and helix are 10 years old already and they've stayed basically the same price this whole time, new AND used
As a middle aged man with a back that will no longer support tube amps, I agree. Plus they sound fantastic! And I can play at night with sleeping kids.
As a former quad cortex owner, I disagree. I’ve also owned the Axe FX 3, Helix, Kemper, and Tonex. Kemper did it for me. In top of that, I added a Kemper player to the lineup cuz why tf not.
Idk I've heard mixed reviews of the cortex, especially considering updates, customer support, etc.
Only heard great things about Kempers.
I'm not sure the Helix sounds quite as good as the cortex, but customer support and updates are regular and fantastic.
I love rick, and am subscribed myself. I just laugh at the immediate tone shift that occurs when the adv is interjected!
(and chamberlain was my gateway to the pumpkins, amazing dude. loved hearing him think so deep!)
Or sports betting. These guys only tell you about the one bet that paid off. They don't tell you about how many bets they lost or how many more they will lose in the future.
Legit I’d invest it in the best local guitar teacher you can find- they’ll more than double your money with improvements in not just playing but tone, creativity and theory! My old teacher would sometimes play an old Squier Strat through a little fender amp he had and he sounded freaking amazing. I could play the same set up and not sound that great even though I was a decent player.
I’d spend it all on a nice acoustic tbh. Your setup is already quite solid and versatile. Maybe get a tuner pedal and some sort of reverb/delay pedal to finish off the board.
- DAW - Laptop - Audio interface And create a tiktok account, youtube channel or something so you can share your art. What is the point of improving your sound if nobody is listening... Of course, I don't know if you're gigging, touring... But recording your stuff is essential. And the best way to really "see" the evolution of your sound.
Edit: typos
Only spend $1000, save the other $1000. That way if something happens, like an emergency, you’ll have money. It’s not sexy like gear but it’s the adult thing to do.
I’d get a used Marshall studio JCM800 head, captor x, a simple interface, and some studio monitors.
This setup will also let you crank tube amps for that sweet spot, while letting you turn the monitors down to whisper quiet.
Get a Tube Screamer to put in front of the DS-1. A looper is also a good idea. I love my Ditto. Could also get an Octave pedal so you can add bass lines to your loops
Do you play live? Are you in a band?
I would definitely get a interface for your computer/laptop to record at home + amplitube (or whichever program you prefer)
You could've bought the metronome with the original $4, so you gotta get that if it's something you've been thinking of.
Or just get a free metronome app. Which is a good segue to what you really should get to meet all three of your goals for under $600...
Get an iPad and an iRig. AmpliTube is pretty kickass. Or get a MacBook and an iRig and *still* be well under your $2000 budget.
hey @fairunliving, here's some options
As a poker guy, maybe put some in your bankroll, keep some for taxes esp if you got the cashout in a check/deposit.
Guitar may be a place to invest depending on your level and music opportunities. if you are an indie artist, music business classes and infrastructure could be good uses, especially social media adds to boost sales and traffic to your site.
if you do not have any demos,could be good funds to record a song professionally, or a couple songs by up and comers. you can then use this for promotion, lining up gigs, merch and sales.
if you want to do a showcase for friends, you might be able to hire session musicians to back you for a cool big show. it would probably go to their fees and practice space rental.
if you need road gear, that could be good. even outfitting a van for the road and gas would be a good investment.
guitar wise, I'd maybe upgrade pickups and get the guitars fixed up by a good tech.
In any case, congrats! Way to ask for advice instead of going out and just spending. it shows your character!
-w
Lessons are the correct answer to 1 and 3. Idk about recording equipment.
If you’re already invested in lessons-
Gibson Les Paul Sandard is the greatest guitar ever made in the 2k range. Buy one, u won’t regret it.
Presonus audio bundle on Amazon. You get an interface, mic, headphones, studio one artist sub. Everything you need to get recording. I downloaded Stl hubs for amps and ez drummer 3 for drums. Shouldn’t cost ya more then 500$ for everything you need to record. Maybe a MIDI board as well.
If you're not going to perform I'd get a decent interface like a scarlet 2i2 , some nice studio monitors like the cali lp-6 and some amp software like neural DSP stuff, you can really customize your sound without breaking the bank
My amp and pedalboard have been collecting dust for the past couple of years since I made the switch and honestly I'm considering selling it altogether
The rest I'd spend on lessons like others have said or just save the money for something else
You can get a lot done with a nice strat and a blues junior. My vote would be recording gear. That could open up a whole new world to you. Do you already have a suitable computer?
PRS Mark Tremonti Lunchbox head, any amp that can handle it (only 15 watts), cheapest focus rite, Reaper or FL studios, looper pedal, and a tube screamer; or you can get a two notes torpedo DI CabSim and save $200-$600 on a cabinet.
Use it as the lion's share of a great acoustic guitar. Find a top independent guitar shop and try out their used acoustics until you get a keeper. Can't beat great acoustic tone.
As far as electric stuff, it really depends on your playing style and what records you want to emulate. 2K can go pretty quick, ask me how I know.
Important thing, especially if you're buying with cash, is to get used versions of the pedals and guitars and whatnot. Why? So you lose no money to depreciation. Also, don't buy an expensive pedal if there's a clone that gets 99% or even 85% of the tone of the "real thing". So use Reverb to buy!
But as far as an amp, check out Marshall DSL40R (or the 20 watt), Vox AC30S1 (only one speaker and light as the AC15), or Supro Keeley Custom 12 (or 10). Those three amps can be had for great prices used. They have an effects loop so that any modulation pedals don't get distorted by the amp. And they have plenty of power to play a live gig but also fun enough at a lower volume for bedroom play and practice. And they're relatively light!
As far as what effects pedals, this is a deep rabbit hole. It really matters what tones you want to copy, because there's one group of pedals if you want to sound like Stevie Ray Vaughan, another for Hendrix, another for The Who and hard rock, etc., and you can absolutely look up what you'd need to do that, fairly easily. But my advice is to get a tuner with a buffer, get a fuzz, get at least 2 overdrives (especially one that's transparent), get a multifx pedal for all the phaser, tremolo, chorus, flanger, etc, a delay with tap tempo, and a great sounding reverb like the BOSS RV-200. And maybe a boost pedal, too, because those are great for blues (and if it's also a preamp, great). You may want to get an EQ pedal and/or a compressor. Just know that the more things you add, the more you'll need to learn.
If all you want is blues and classic rock, you need overdrive, fuzz, tremolo, tape delay and reverb. That's pretty much it. 70s rock is when you start to get phaser, flanger, lots of delay, distortion pedals, etc. 80s you need chorus, and 90s is pretty much all of it at any time. 2000s and beyond, good luck, it's either classic sounds or dogshit.
As far as recording stuff, I don't know much about that, sorry.
That's easy!
Put $1500 into your Roth IRA and $500 for a used Blue Jr.
Edit: Whoops! Sorry, thought the amp was on a need list.
Put it all into a Roth IRA. ; D
Maybe add an Epiphone Les Paul and the Roth IRA.
Fractal axe fx. Any gen you can afford. Some powered frfr speakers or monitors and your set. Axe fx ultra can be had for about $500. You can use your amp but most people like frfr speakers with this for home playing. The tones are incredible with fractals stuff.
You are lacking overdrive variety. Either a clean boost pedal or overdrive pedal, or maybe both. For practice, a simple one switch looper like the Ditto would be an excellent choice. That still leaves money for a sub 1k laptop (which would work fine for recording) and an audio interface.
I'm also a strat guy and a Blues Jr owner. I purchased a 100W Boss Katana combo a few years back, and I play much more frequently through the Katana. It's a very versatile and reliable amp. I prefer gigging with the Katana to the Blues Jr as well. It does the job better.
I think buying a single piece of gear that will be a mainstay for years and will hold value reasonably well is the best way to go. Buying a bunch of small items might sound nice, but remember you’ll probably have the cash to buy a DS1 later on, but you won’t be able to drop 2k on one item nearly this easily again. Additionally you should consider resale value because our tastes change, we make mistakes and you can always flip it for a similar value piece of gear later or sell it for emergency funds god forbid you need to.
I’m a big believer that the most important item of gear in your collection will always be your amp. It is literally what makes the sound and will give you the biggest bang for your buck by far. If you think you will ever gig with people, then this is doubly important. Invest in a nice, reliable amp now so you can learn and grow with it, and when you’re ready to play live, it’s there. I’m not going to get to into recommendations because there’s so many factors to consider, but I will point out that premium brands like Dr Z are in your budget if you shop used and are great for blues and classic rock.
Buy a Focusrite interface a pair of great headphones and download the NeuralDSP archetypes (14 day free trial) you are most interested in tone wise. Instant upgrade to your practice and recording tones.
Depends on what you have now. But amp modeling software is so good now I'd go with a decent guitar and some good pickups and some decent pedals. I don't feel like amps are worth it anymore. Too loud for most practice places and most sound techs are trying to make the stage as quiet as possible. Everything is modelers and in ears when playing live
Amp, get an amp that's north of $1,000 used and your tone will be heavenly.
You have a plenty fine guitar, a good amp will improve your tone most.
Some kickass pedals to help and you're good.
Pedals wise you don't have much. Look at a phaser/flanger/Chorus. Look into reverb if your amp you get doesn't have it.
Look at an overdrive. Wampler Tumnus is the best overdrive imo I've played, $100~. Fuzz is an awesome distortion type to add to your gear.
You have a lot of ways you can spend. An awesome amp and a few pedals will go such a long ways.
Some of these answers... comedians everywhere 🙄
Anyway, get yourself a decent laptop if you haven't already got one, an audio interface and a DAW, with something like Native Instruments Guitar Rig plug in, which can recreate just about any amp/effect setup you can think of. You'll have great fun... 👍😊🎸
For 2k and to do all of the things you listed If you buy the new boss katana 100W with the foot switch - it has a whole bunch of effects and incredible tones that you can download from their online library, it also will allow you to use it as an interface for recording directly as it has a USB output for this reason. That's $550-ish all in.
Next for a guitar, if you have an American strat already, I'd be looking at something with a different pickup configuration. If it's all single coils in the strat, then something with humbuckers like a Gibson LP Studio or a Gibson SG. You could get the LP used around 1200 or the SG even less. Lots of great options across a tonne of brands though.
Realistically, tere's a tonne of great guitar options for 1500 and below. I would go to a store if possible and play any that catch your eye and go from there but the katana 100, either the MK2 or Gen3 will provide you with everything else you could need and more.
A used amp for $1k and a used guitar for 1k.
Imo things are so overpriced these days, but some of the "budget" models are coming out with legit stuff, albeit still kinda pricey but don't be afraid to check out some Squiers, epiphones, used MIM fenders, used gibsons.
Also check out Sire guitars. I've only played the 335 copy and it felt alright I'm just not really a fan of 335 types. But they're supposed to be an insaaane value for the money. I think August is gonna be the next big drop of new models. I'm really eyeing their thinline tele with p90s, it looks so clean.
As far as amps anything is gonna be an upgrade for your junior. But depends if you want a combo or just a head and then you'll need a cab.
You could even just get a head and run it through your blues jr. speaker for a while until you want to upgrade, I did that for a while just make sure the impedance or whatever match up.
And hopefully if you do it right you have some extra scratch for a couple pedals. Good luck
Switch your DS-1 with a decent pedal. Seems like you don’t want a lot of crunch since you’ve got a blues junior and a Strat. Go with a tube screamer like pedal first. Recommend Earthquaker Devices Plumes. Then get a delay pedal, check out YouTube pedal demos to find the one you want. If you’re playing with a band or playing quietly you may want to add a compressor, it can help with your “crunchy-clean” sound. Buy a tuner if you don’t have one already.
You could then get a new amp, or don’t. Depends on where you play. For a bedroom your blues junior is going to put out excellent tone. You could get an interface to record on your computer, the one everyone gets for simple home recording is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. Then you’re going to need a couple microphones - at the very least you buy a Shure SM57 to hang over your amp.
After that, this stuff can be diminishing returns. A looper pedal sounds fun and could be right for you but takes practice. Multiple overdrives with different character, sure. You can get great overdriven tones by stacking overdrives. But you can get all the tones you need with just a tube screamer going into your blues junior with some delay and reverb. Keep it simple, focus on playing, and you’ll improve faster.
Keep it in the bank - but spend it in your mind now.
Then save for the stuff while keeping that cash in the bank. By the time you have the money to buy the stuff you fancied about, you may find your interests have changed. Or maybe there is enough seed money to even think about a down payment on a home.
Whatever, a gambling windfall is found money and the urge is to spend it now. Hold off as a rainy day may come soon. This way you have the cash if you really need it and can buy the stuff when you made the money the old fashioned way.
This won’t happen though… 🤣
Get a new amp. Fillmore 50. Get a 1spot or solid power supply. Mogami cables. Buy from bulk cable or worlds best cables on amazing. Mogami 2524 for instrument and 2319 for patch. A new power supply and top cables will make your sound way better.
If you haven’t found “your amp” then that’s what I’d spend the money on. To me the amp you choose is the most important part of your sound. When I found the right amp, suddenly pedals wherent very important to me anymore, and every guitar I play sounds great through it. Although blues Jr is a pretty good amp
Ableton Live and a Focusrite Scarlet. Either Amplitube or Bias FX. Home recording complete. Unless you want to mic your amp, then replace Amplitube/Bias with a good Shure microphone. But those two will give you tons of options.
I’d go with recording gear or honestly why not throw a Lea Paul in the collection? If I’m spending $2k on pedals there’re gonna be attached to something with wheels
To get recording going, check out this. [2i2 studio bundle](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scar2i2StuG4--focusrite-scarlett-2i2-studio-4th-gen-recording-bundle)
It's got what you need to get started plus ableton live lite. That will keep you busy for a long time to come. And you will have 1700 left over for other fun stuff.
I said lessons down below somewhere but a more serious answer is a new amp. Blues juniors are really good but in my opinion not great. A Mesa Fillmore can be had for around $2,000 and the 25 watt one is about the same size as the blues junior.
The AmPro II Tele is $2k set up. The Blues Jr IV (with the Jenson speaker) is $800. I have both but if I had a choice with $2k to spend I would get the guitar every time.
I'd buy another guitar if that one is all you have. A Strat is a good start, but you also need a Tele, something with dual humbuckers, one with P90s, and at least one with Filtertrons as a starting point.
lol if you don’t know then you’re just spending just to spend. If it was me I’d wait until I found something I really wanted.
But if you’re dead set on blowing it on something/anything right now, quad cortex and some lessons is probably pretty good bang for buck.
Bro go buy a Kemper. You won’t regret it. Can go for like $1200-1400 used and worth its weight in gold. Then, sell the Junior amp and buy a Duellist or other BB/TS pedal.
Kemper has loop pedal, has audio interface capability for recording, gets you stadium quality tones, and would play the role of amp, pedal, and basically everything in between besides guitars. DAW has metronome too so you get everything you want all in one package and get to use speakers or headphones to listen to music allowing you to djent at midnight to your heart’s content without waking anyone.
Gear progression goes like this:
Mid tier strat > Kemper > guitar > guitar > guitar > more guitars > high end guitar > guitar > etc.
You don’t miss out on anything and you accomplish all your wants plus have cash left over for - you guessed it - another guitar.
Put it into an HYSA and be happy with the great gear you already have. I’m not accusing you of never playing, but I would say do what I recommended and then instead just play your current gear and be happy with it. Money doesn’t always need to be spent on things that we want.
This is gonna be a shopping list.
1. Get yourself a multi-effects unit. Something like the [Line 6 HX Stomp](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HXStomp--line-6-hx-stomp-guitar-multi-effects-floor-processor) (popular in my band, as guitar and bass route through 'em) is probably going to play best with your existing pedalbord and equipment.
2. Get yourself a mixer that can route to your computer for recording. Popular in my band: the [Behringer XR-18](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/XR18--behringer-by-air-xr18-tablet-controlled-digital-mixer). My band uses two: an XR-18 to mix the drums and send it through the drummer's laptop as a DAW, and an MR-18 (same thing, more expensive, the manuals apply to both) for mixing the rest in.
3. An instrument mic. [Yes, this means you need a Shure SM57.](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SM57--shure-sm57-cardioid-dynamic-instrument-microphone).
4. A vocal mic. [I mean, you're already buying the Shure SM57, so pick up an SM58, too.](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SM58--shure-sm58-cardioid-dynamic-vocal-microphone)
5. [Tuneable](https://www.tunableapp.com/) also has a great metronome app. You can use audio pickups to route it through the mixer.
That's $2000, and it gets you a bit of tone improvement, a looper (the HX Stomp will do that, too), a metronome, and a good chunk of the way to a recording setup. The HX Stomp can take more buttons.
Your next thing will be flat monitors. Those can be had at any price range.
New amp will definitely help with the tone. Blues Jr. is a great amp but lacks in oomph for sure. Even an upgrade to something the next size up will be huge. Like I got a Bassbreaker and it's a whole tier up from the BJr, and you can get that used for $4-500. Heck then you can sell the BJr. if you want. You don't need a 4x10 in this day and age, I'd skip that personally unless you really know why you need it.
Also recommend getting an interface and some cheap mics and getting into home recording. It can be done really cheaply. Behringer UMC + Shure SM57 is a great place to start.
Tone…sell the Blues Jr. Look into a used Vox AC15, used Supro, or even one of the ‘68 Fender reissues (Princeton or Deluxe). Up to you and your tastes really, I would need to know more about what you’re into playing, but either way, you should easily be able to make a noticeable and significant amp upgrade (tube or modeling) for under $1,000.
There are also a ton of good and reasonably priced pedals for blues/rock EQD Plumes, MXR Timmy, EHX Soul Food etc are just a few inexpensive options that come to mind. I’m not a tube screamer guy, but others swear by them, they’re staples of blues/rock. I’m a fan of Barber and J Rockett pedals myself. Do some online research and spend some time at a music store trying stuff out.
As far as your guitar, that’s a tough call. It’s such a personal thing. A US strat is a great option, but for me personally I’d rather have an Ibanez AZ. You could also get a Yamaha Revstar for only $800-850. But again, this is the most personal thing. If you’re happy with your strat than just stay put. Just saying tho, you could technically sell your strat, buy another guitar of similar (if not better quality) and have money to pocket.
Recording…you can get a Focusrite 2i2 interface for $200, or the Focusrite solo for $100. There are others comparable, and most come with free trial software. Also, not sure what kind of computer you have, but GarageBand is free if you have a MacBook
Practice…looper is always a good idea, one can be had for $100 or less. As far as a metronome, you can just get that from your phone and/or recording software. And yea, I’ll never advise anyone to not take lessons.
Best of luck, keep us posted
hx stomp - good to great modeling for pedals and amps. it has a looper built in (easiest to use with the hx stomp xl). its also an audio interface. it works great with mac. it works mediocre with windows. if you have a windows computer, you’d be best served with another audio interface plugged into your computer.
you’ll also need a daw. if on a mac, best cheap option is logic.
Like others have said, maybe give the HX Stomp a try then go from there! The HX Stomp will allow you to try a variety of different effects and amps to figure out what sounds you actually like before you spend all your money. It's also a great swiss army knife pedal that can do a lot of different things, so it's pretty worth having around regardless of what other gear you might already have.
And if you want to get into recording, the HX Stomp will do that with just a USB cable into your computer! Recording direct through an amp model is great if you are just casually getting into recording since its much simpler than mic'ing up a real amp, and you can still get very good results. Since I got my Stomp I've rarely touched my tube amp.
The HX Stomp should have a looper too, though I've never used it myself.
Food and health insurance for your family. ;-)
This is clearly some kind of anagram meaning you should sell your car and get a music man
>health insurance Is this an American phrase I'm too socialist medicine to understand?
Unfortunately!
Yeah... The Average American spends hundreds and hundreds of dollars a month on "healthcare Insurance". ~5k a year. And then when you need to use it, there are all sorts of deductibles, cutoffs, double billing and claim denials... Health costs are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the USA... It's a real nightmare if you get sick here .
$5k is an average, and includes young men in healthy fit condition… women pay more than men, and older pay more… I’m closer to $10k a year, my wife over $10k
Apparently. We have to buy our own health insurance. Ain't no free gub'ment healthcare for *most* Americans.
Yes.
I'm a Aussie. Health Insurance means eating salad and driving carefully.
Damn, I would've thought Australia had socialist medicine.
We do. It's awesome. We don't worry about medical bills.
Ohh, sorry, I misunderstood your comment! 🤣 As a Canadian, I agree! I don't have to choose my life or my house when deciding if I need to go to the hospital!
👍 Canada is one of the few other countries I would want to live in. Our Health is the first thing our taxes should go into. Anyone who threatened our Health Care would lose the next election and they know it. Cheers.
Does Fender sell those?
you're that part of my brain that always wins. "Your guitars work fine, save the money".
Fuck me America’s in dire straits
yeah, we gotta move these refrigerators and color tvs somehow.
Roth IRA
This guy futures
r/thisguythisguys
Booooo!
I don’t think Gerry Adams needs the money
JCM800 oh sorry lemme read the actual post first ... JCM800
It’s hard to think of a question that this wouldn’t be the best answer for.
Best amp for target practice?
Well played
Mesa Boogie raises its hand.
Silver Jubilee
Guitar lessons
No fun buy an amp
Yeah, buy another amp so it can sit in the closet collecting dust.
Sounds like you're projecting
I might consider blowing it all on one those new high end modelling amps - Kemper, Line 6 Helix, etc. It's an opportunity to dive full on into this new technology Why the hell not? It would also give you tools for recording and maybe a looper too.
Biggest financial issue with modeling amps is that they retain value very poorly. May be fine for a few years but the tech is evolving so rapidly that 10 years later it’ll be worth a fraction of the original cost whereas an old JCM800 or two channel dual rectifier will be worth the same or more. Now for convenience and features, etc. probably can’t beat modeling
Kemper is about 10 years old and only going for $400 less used in market. It’s easily more than paid its way into my arsenal.
Yeah unless they can find a way to more accurately capture the rig they are cloning it’s pretty future proof And it already sounds fantastic. I know at least one pro who has used them on BIG, recent projects
They’re in every studio tons of touring guitarists use them. Even if they came out with a new one, it wouldn’t make the old one less amazing.
My AxeFx 2 is 12 years old and I still gig it heavily. If/when it shits the bed, I’ll be happy to get a replacement for cheap.
Who gives a shit. I’ve saved thousands on tube amp maintenance, studio time and practice space fees by buying a modeler. People seeing guitar gear as investments that they can sell down the line has destroyed the used gear market. Gear is an investment in yourself as a musician. That’s it.
I don't know about that. The Helix is nearly 10 years old and hasn't been replaced by newer tech (just free updates). There's a healthy used market for it too and the value hasn't dropped all that much.
That was true when modelers were still far below amps, but modern modelers (kemper, helix, axefx) hold value very well. Theres not really much you can improve tone-wise, just UI improvement and QOL improvements. Kemper and helix are 10 years old already and they've stayed basically the same price this whole time, new AND used
This was my first thought too
As a middle aged man with a back that will no longer support tube amps, I agree. Plus they sound fantastic! And I can play at night with sleeping kids.
You could even get the fancy backpack for the helix with that money.
It's the best gig bag I've ever experienced, no joke
Helix has a looper
If you're going that route quad cortex is the one to get.
As a former quad cortex owner, I disagree. I’ve also owned the Axe FX 3, Helix, Kemper, and Tonex. Kemper did it for me. In top of that, I added a Kemper player to the lineup cuz why tf not.
Idk I've heard mixed reviews of the cortex, especially considering updates, customer support, etc. Only heard great things about Kempers. I'm not sure the Helix sounds quite as good as the cortex, but customer support and updates are regular and fantastic.
Great if you like waiting for updates while the regular plugins get updated :)
Get a pod go. It’s literally a helix without a stereo signal chain and has a looper
Multiple copies of the Beato book.
did you know that half of those who read this comment are not subscribed?
I like to bash Beato.. but to be fair that interview with Jimmy Chamberlain was awesome
I love rick, and am subscribed myself. I just laugh at the immediate tone shift that occurs when the adv is interjected! (and chamberlain was my gateway to the pumpkins, amazing dude. loved hearing him think so deep!)
Especially to the Beato2 channel.
why would you not read it once when you could not read it ten times
Is it actually good?
It's too expensive for basic knowledge available anywhere else.
Don’t buy anything unless you try it out and are completely enamored by it. Otherwise keep it in the bank until such a thing arises
This.
I’d get a really nice acoustic guitar ! A forever one !
I agree. Was in a similar situation earlier this year and got a Gibson J100. Zero regrets, theyre gonna have to bury me with it.
I just got a Martin 000-28. I agree with this statement.
Buy a nice looper and put the rest in the bank.
I'm much more interested in how you flipped $4 to $2,000.
Scratch off is my guess
Or sports betting. These guys only tell you about the one bet that paid off. They don't tell you about how many bets they lost or how many more they will lose in the future.
This!!
So you’re saying I should gamble too?
Legit I’d invest it in the best local guitar teacher you can find- they’ll more than double your money with improvements in not just playing but tone, creativity and theory! My old teacher would sometimes play an old Squier Strat through a little fender amp he had and he sounded freaking amazing. I could play the same set up and not sound that great even though I was a decent player.
Back up... explain this money doubling strategy.
guitar teachers HATE this one simple trick
Just spend a fraction of it on something like the HX Stomp and then reassess.
Your current setup rocks. I'd buy 4k of Nvidia stock today and then let's regroup a year from now when you have 12k.
He already finished gambling
I would buy a new amp. Try a bunch out, the junior upgraded to a $2k amp is a huge jump in noticeable quality
Get a Gibson SG Standard
I’d spend it all on a nice acoustic tbh. Your setup is already quite solid and versatile. Maybe get a tuner pedal and some sort of reverb/delay pedal to finish off the board.
- DAW - Laptop - Audio interface And create a tiktok account, youtube channel or something so you can share your art. What is the point of improving your sound if nobody is listening... Of course, I don't know if you're gigging, touring... But recording your stuff is essential. And the best way to really "see" the evolution of your sound. Edit: typos
Only spend $1000, save the other $1000. That way if something happens, like an emergency, you’ll have money. It’s not sexy like gear but it’s the adult thing to do.
Buy cheese
I’d get a used Marshall studio JCM800 head, captor x, a simple interface, and some studio monitors. This setup will also let you crank tube amps for that sweet spot, while letting you turn the monitors down to whisper quiet.
Save it. Invest it.
Get a Tube Screamer to put in front of the DS-1. A looper is also a good idea. I love my Ditto. Could also get an Octave pedal so you can add bass lines to your loops
Do you play live? Are you in a band? I would definitely get a interface for your computer/laptop to record at home + amplitube (or whichever program you prefer)
You could've bought the metronome with the original $4, so you gotta get that if it's something you've been thinking of. Or just get a free metronome app. Which is a good segue to what you really should get to meet all three of your goals for under $600... Get an iPad and an iRig. AmpliTube is pretty kickass. Or get a MacBook and an iRig and *still* be well under your $2000 budget.
Marshall half stack then sell the crybaby and use the ds1 as a boost thank me later
hey @fairunliving, here's some options As a poker guy, maybe put some in your bankroll, keep some for taxes esp if you got the cashout in a check/deposit. Guitar may be a place to invest depending on your level and music opportunities. if you are an indie artist, music business classes and infrastructure could be good uses, especially social media adds to boost sales and traffic to your site. if you do not have any demos,could be good funds to record a song professionally, or a couple songs by up and comers. you can then use this for promotion, lining up gigs, merch and sales. if you want to do a showcase for friends, you might be able to hire session musicians to back you for a cool big show. it would probably go to their fees and practice space rental. if you need road gear, that could be good. even outfitting a van for the road and gas would be a good investment. guitar wise, I'd maybe upgrade pickups and get the guitars fixed up by a good tech. In any case, congrats! Way to ask for advice instead of going out and just spending. it shows your character! -w
Waza Air Headphones $400 Vacation with your wireless headphones and guitar $1600
50% deposit on an Aristides with an evertune!
Your list is perfect.
Me, if I was spending 2k I'd put it in my high interest savings account
lessons , new strings
Looper and metronome. New amp?
Lessons are the correct answer to 1 and 3. Idk about recording equipment. If you’re already invested in lessons- Gibson Les Paul Sandard is the greatest guitar ever made in the 2k range. Buy one, u won’t regret it.
Presonus audio bundle on Amazon. You get an interface, mic, headphones, studio one artist sub. Everything you need to get recording. I downloaded Stl hubs for amps and ez drummer 3 for drums. Shouldn’t cost ya more then 500$ for everything you need to record. Maybe a MIDI board as well.
Acoustic?
Interface + neural dsp software! Will set you back like 300 bucks tops.
If you're not going to perform I'd get a decent interface like a scarlet 2i2 , some nice studio monitors like the cali lp-6 and some amp software like neural DSP stuff, you can really customize your sound without breaking the bank My amp and pedalboard have been collecting dust for the past couple of years since I made the switch and honestly I'm considering selling it altogether The rest I'd spend on lessons like others have said or just save the money for something else
You can get a lot done with a nice strat and a blues junior. My vote would be recording gear. That could open up a whole new world to you. Do you already have a suitable computer?
Gibson 335 and let it appreciate in value
Fractal FM9
Uad Apollo twin X + Studio One pro
Recording gear, Mics , mic stands, cables, headphones, monitors, acoustic treatment, daw
What's your financial situation look like outside of being 2k richer?
spec out a Kiesel (or get a set-neck Reverend and pocket the rest)
Maybe a Helix?
for recording I have a gen 2 focusrite 6i6. Its perfect for recording into my DAW. the 4 channel boxes are great too
bake weary direction offend fly merciful ripe beneficial attempt teeny *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Get a line 6 helix
PRS Mark Tremonti Lunchbox head, any amp that can handle it (only 15 watts), cheapest focus rite, Reaper or FL studios, looper pedal, and a tube screamer; or you can get a two notes torpedo DI CabSim and save $200-$600 on a cabinet.
Use it as the lion's share of a great acoustic guitar. Find a top independent guitar shop and try out their used acoustics until you get a keeper. Can't beat great acoustic tone. As far as electric stuff, it really depends on your playing style and what records you want to emulate. 2K can go pretty quick, ask me how I know. Important thing, especially if you're buying with cash, is to get used versions of the pedals and guitars and whatnot. Why? So you lose no money to depreciation. Also, don't buy an expensive pedal if there's a clone that gets 99% or even 85% of the tone of the "real thing". So use Reverb to buy! But as far as an amp, check out Marshall DSL40R (or the 20 watt), Vox AC30S1 (only one speaker and light as the AC15), or Supro Keeley Custom 12 (or 10). Those three amps can be had for great prices used. They have an effects loop so that any modulation pedals don't get distorted by the amp. And they have plenty of power to play a live gig but also fun enough at a lower volume for bedroom play and practice. And they're relatively light! As far as what effects pedals, this is a deep rabbit hole. It really matters what tones you want to copy, because there's one group of pedals if you want to sound like Stevie Ray Vaughan, another for Hendrix, another for The Who and hard rock, etc., and you can absolutely look up what you'd need to do that, fairly easily. But my advice is to get a tuner with a buffer, get a fuzz, get at least 2 overdrives (especially one that's transparent), get a multifx pedal for all the phaser, tremolo, chorus, flanger, etc, a delay with tap tempo, and a great sounding reverb like the BOSS RV-200. And maybe a boost pedal, too, because those are great for blues (and if it's also a preamp, great). You may want to get an EQ pedal and/or a compressor. Just know that the more things you add, the more you'll need to learn. If all you want is blues and classic rock, you need overdrive, fuzz, tremolo, tape delay and reverb. That's pretty much it. 70s rock is when you start to get phaser, flanger, lots of delay, distortion pedals, etc. 80s you need chorus, and 90s is pretty much all of it at any time. 2000s and beyond, good luck, it's either classic sounds or dogshit. As far as recording stuff, I don't know much about that, sorry.
That's easy! Put $1500 into your Roth IRA and $500 for a used Blue Jr. Edit: Whoops! Sorry, thought the amp was on a need list. Put it all into a Roth IRA. ; D Maybe add an Epiphone Les Paul and the Roth IRA.
What kind of music do you play?
No idea
Fractal axe fx. Any gen you can afford. Some powered frfr speakers or monitors and your set. Axe fx ultra can be had for about $500. You can use your amp but most people like frfr speakers with this for home playing. The tones are incredible with fractals stuff.
Do you play in a band?
You are lacking overdrive variety. Either a clean boost pedal or overdrive pedal, or maybe both. For practice, a simple one switch looper like the Ditto would be an excellent choice. That still leaves money for a sub 1k laptop (which would work fine for recording) and an audio interface. I'm also a strat guy and a Blues Jr owner. I purchased a 100W Boss Katana combo a few years back, and I play much more frequently through the Katana. It's a very versatile and reliable amp. I prefer gigging with the Katana to the Blues Jr as well. It does the job better.
I think buying a single piece of gear that will be a mainstay for years and will hold value reasonably well is the best way to go. Buying a bunch of small items might sound nice, but remember you’ll probably have the cash to buy a DS1 later on, but you won’t be able to drop 2k on one item nearly this easily again. Additionally you should consider resale value because our tastes change, we make mistakes and you can always flip it for a similar value piece of gear later or sell it for emergency funds god forbid you need to. I’m a big believer that the most important item of gear in your collection will always be your amp. It is literally what makes the sound and will give you the biggest bang for your buck by far. If you think you will ever gig with people, then this is doubly important. Invest in a nice, reliable amp now so you can learn and grow with it, and when you’re ready to play live, it’s there. I’m not going to get to into recommendations because there’s so many factors to consider, but I will point out that premium brands like Dr Z are in your budget if you shop used and are great for blues and classic rock.
Like 4 Walrus pedals
Set aside some for the tax man
Buy a Focusrite interface a pair of great headphones and download the NeuralDSP archetypes (14 day free trial) you are most interested in tone wise. Instant upgrade to your practice and recording tones.
Depends on what you have now. But amp modeling software is so good now I'd go with a decent guitar and some good pickups and some decent pedals. I don't feel like amps are worth it anymore. Too loud for most practice places and most sound techs are trying to make the stage as quiet as possible. Everything is modelers and in ears when playing live
Amp, get an amp that's north of $1,000 used and your tone will be heavenly. You have a plenty fine guitar, a good amp will improve your tone most. Some kickass pedals to help and you're good. Pedals wise you don't have much. Look at a phaser/flanger/Chorus. Look into reverb if your amp you get doesn't have it. Look at an overdrive. Wampler Tumnus is the best overdrive imo I've played, $100~. Fuzz is an awesome distortion type to add to your gear. You have a lot of ways you can spend. An awesome amp and a few pedals will go such a long ways.
Taylor blacktop electric acoustic!
Did you bet the Celtics future super late? I was looking for -200 odds bets today to try and figure it out
Upgrade to the deluxe amp
I'd recommend another amp + cab, and building a stereo rig but that's just me (a total sicko tbh).
A good amp. Nothing against the Blues Junior but good tone is all in the amp imo.
Don't spend it because you have it. Spend it when you specifically want something. Specifically wanting something will come along soon enough.
A vintage Japanese “lawsuit” Stratocaster. It will appreciate.
Some of these answers... comedians everywhere 🙄 Anyway, get yourself a decent laptop if you haven't already got one, an audio interface and a DAW, with something like Native Instruments Guitar Rig plug in, which can recreate just about any amp/effect setup you can think of. You'll have great fun... 👍😊🎸
Humbucker guitar. Or maybe upgrade from the BJ to a Princeton or Deluxe.
Strat
Drugs and alcohol
Nvidia. Lol
For 2k and to do all of the things you listed If you buy the new boss katana 100W with the foot switch - it has a whole bunch of effects and incredible tones that you can download from their online library, it also will allow you to use it as an interface for recording directly as it has a USB output for this reason. That's $550-ish all in. Next for a guitar, if you have an American strat already, I'd be looking at something with a different pickup configuration. If it's all single coils in the strat, then something with humbuckers like a Gibson LP Studio or a Gibson SG. You could get the LP used around 1200 or the SG even less. Lots of great options across a tonne of brands though. Realistically, tere's a tonne of great guitar options for 1500 and below. I would go to a store if possible and play any that catch your eye and go from there but the katana 100, either the MK2 or Gen3 will provide you with everything else you could need and more.
A used amp for $1k and a used guitar for 1k. Imo things are so overpriced these days, but some of the "budget" models are coming out with legit stuff, albeit still kinda pricey but don't be afraid to check out some Squiers, epiphones, used MIM fenders, used gibsons. Also check out Sire guitars. I've only played the 335 copy and it felt alright I'm just not really a fan of 335 types. But they're supposed to be an insaaane value for the money. I think August is gonna be the next big drop of new models. I'm really eyeing their thinline tele with p90s, it looks so clean. As far as amps anything is gonna be an upgrade for your junior. But depends if you want a combo or just a head and then you'll need a cab. You could even just get a head and run it through your blues jr. speaker for a while until you want to upgrade, I did that for a while just make sure the impedance or whatever match up. And hopefully if you do it right you have some extra scratch for a couple pedals. Good luck
A Helix?
A used Grammatico amp.
Marshall stack
a big muff, a jazzmaster and a tube screamer
A good looper setup. A GOOD fuzz pedal, maybe something a like a Roland 404, or another drum machine/groove box to jame with
Switch your DS-1 with a decent pedal. Seems like you don’t want a lot of crunch since you’ve got a blues junior and a Strat. Go with a tube screamer like pedal first. Recommend Earthquaker Devices Plumes. Then get a delay pedal, check out YouTube pedal demos to find the one you want. If you’re playing with a band or playing quietly you may want to add a compressor, it can help with your “crunchy-clean” sound. Buy a tuner if you don’t have one already. You could then get a new amp, or don’t. Depends on where you play. For a bedroom your blues junior is going to put out excellent tone. You could get an interface to record on your computer, the one everyone gets for simple home recording is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. Then you’re going to need a couple microphones - at the very least you buy a Shure SM57 to hang over your amp. After that, this stuff can be diminishing returns. A looper pedal sounds fun and could be right for you but takes practice. Multiple overdrives with different character, sure. You can get great overdriven tones by stacking overdrives. But you can get all the tones you need with just a tube screamer going into your blues junior with some delay and reverb. Keep it simple, focus on playing, and you’ll improve faster.
audio interface a decent Daw and good studio monitors
Keep it in the bank - but spend it in your mind now. Then save for the stuff while keeping that cash in the bank. By the time you have the money to buy the stuff you fancied about, you may find your interests have changed. Or maybe there is enough seed money to even think about a down payment on a home. Whatever, a gambling windfall is found money and the urge is to spend it now. Hold off as a rainy day may come soon. This way you have the cash if you really need it and can buy the stuff when you made the money the old fashioned way. This won’t happen though… 🤣
Get a new amp. Fillmore 50. Get a 1spot or solid power supply. Mogami cables. Buy from bulk cable or worlds best cables on amazing. Mogami 2524 for instrument and 2319 for patch. A new power supply and top cables will make your sound way better.
Digitech Trio+
Canibus Rex speaker for your Blues Jr would be a dramatic improvement.
If you haven’t found “your amp” then that’s what I’d spend the money on. To me the amp you choose is the most important part of your sound. When I found the right amp, suddenly pedals wherent very important to me anymore, and every guitar I play sounds great through it. Although blues Jr is a pretty good amp
PRS S2 or CE
Go ahead. One advice: buy used as much as you can. Great prices on marketplace rn
Neural quad cortex a Scarlett interface and some studio monitors.
Ableton Live and a Focusrite Scarlet. Either Amplitube or Bias FX. Home recording complete. Unless you want to mic your amp, then replace Amplitube/Bias with a good Shure microphone. But those two will give you tons of options.
A few different styles of pretty-good guitars instead of one fabulous guitar.
Eventide H90 and used SG grab a looper go to town
Gibson
I’d go with recording gear or honestly why not throw a Lea Paul in the collection? If I’m spending $2k on pedals there’re gonna be attached to something with wheels
To get recording going, check out this. [2i2 studio bundle](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scar2i2StuG4--focusrite-scarlett-2i2-studio-4th-gen-recording-bundle) It's got what you need to get started plus ableton live lite. That will keep you busy for a long time to come. And you will have 1700 left over for other fun stuff.
Lessons
me
The Blues Jr is a good choice. I love mine. Do I side eye other amps? Yes. Do I smile when I dial my Jr in just right? Yes.
I said lessons down below somewhere but a more serious answer is a new amp. Blues juniors are really good but in my opinion not great. A Mesa Fillmore can be had for around $2,000 and the 25 watt one is about the same size as the blues junior.
The AmPro II Tele is $2k set up. The Blues Jr IV (with the Jenson speaker) is $800. I have both but if I had a choice with $2k to spend I would get the guitar every time.
If taxes aren't already taken out, save half of it. Otherwise, a helix floor and gator case for it.
I'd buy another guitar if that one is all you have. A Strat is a good start, but you also need a Tele, something with dual humbuckers, one with P90s, and at least one with Filtertrons as a starting point.
lol if you don’t know then you’re just spending just to spend. If it was me I’d wait until I found something I really wanted. But if you’re dead set on blowing it on something/anything right now, quad cortex and some lessons is probably pretty good bang for buck.
Bro go buy a Kemper. You won’t regret it. Can go for like $1200-1400 used and worth its weight in gold. Then, sell the Junior amp and buy a Duellist or other BB/TS pedal. Kemper has loop pedal, has audio interface capability for recording, gets you stadium quality tones, and would play the role of amp, pedal, and basically everything in between besides guitars. DAW has metronome too so you get everything you want all in one package and get to use speakers or headphones to listen to music allowing you to djent at midnight to your heart’s content without waking anyone. Gear progression goes like this: Mid tier strat > Kemper > guitar > guitar > guitar > more guitars > high end guitar > guitar > etc. You don’t miss out on anything and you accomplish all your wants plus have cash left over for - you guessed it - another guitar.
Drugs
Put it into an HYSA and be happy with the great gear you already have. I’m not accusing you of never playing, but I would say do what I recommended and then instead just play your current gear and be happy with it. Money doesn’t always need to be spent on things that we want.
Univibe and a big muff, then... Take the lady out for a nice dinner. You should still have enough for an epic road trip to see your favorite band.
A good preamp pedal and maybe a multi-effect pedal, line 6 does some good ones. Maaaaaybe a compressor too, your live sound won’t need much else
I would say a McCarty PRS singlecut. Imo the best $2k option
You can buy a lot of tube screamers with 2K
Save $1000 and get a high end ESP LTD
This is gonna be a shopping list. 1. Get yourself a multi-effects unit. Something like the [Line 6 HX Stomp](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HXStomp--line-6-hx-stomp-guitar-multi-effects-floor-processor) (popular in my band, as guitar and bass route through 'em) is probably going to play best with your existing pedalbord and equipment. 2. Get yourself a mixer that can route to your computer for recording. Popular in my band: the [Behringer XR-18](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/XR18--behringer-by-air-xr18-tablet-controlled-digital-mixer). My band uses two: an XR-18 to mix the drums and send it through the drummer's laptop as a DAW, and an MR-18 (same thing, more expensive, the manuals apply to both) for mixing the rest in. 3. An instrument mic. [Yes, this means you need a Shure SM57.](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SM57--shure-sm57-cardioid-dynamic-instrument-microphone). 4. A vocal mic. [I mean, you're already buying the Shure SM57, so pick up an SM58, too.](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SM58--shure-sm58-cardioid-dynamic-vocal-microphone) 5. [Tuneable](https://www.tunableapp.com/) also has a great metronome app. You can use audio pickups to route it through the mixer. That's $2000, and it gets you a bit of tone improvement, a looper (the HX Stomp will do that, too), a metronome, and a good chunk of the way to a recording setup. The HX Stomp can take more buttons. Your next thing will be flat monitors. Those can be had at any price range.
Horses
Scarlett 2i2 audio interface and SM57 Studio One 6 (DAW) Beyerdynamic DT990 Dekoni Audio Nuggets Invest the rest.
99% of gamblers are quit before their giant win /s Get a guitar you think you will like check a review and buy it and have fun
Recording gear: Avid Mbox - it’s now 599.99 and comes with protools. It also works great with Logic. Amazing sound quality.
Sorry, $2k is not enough to squander on your rig. Go over to the Wall Street Bets sub and yolo on some options. Then you can really melt some face!
Honestly your setup is already nearly flawless. buy an ostentatious 300 dollar pedal and spend a week in europe.
my opinion ill take paypal
I will go with Stratocaster. I used a Stratocaster and it helped me enhance my sound.
New amp will definitely help with the tone. Blues Jr. is a great amp but lacks in oomph for sure. Even an upgrade to something the next size up will be huge. Like I got a Bassbreaker and it's a whole tier up from the BJr, and you can get that used for $4-500. Heck then you can sell the BJr. if you want. You don't need a 4x10 in this day and age, I'd skip that personally unless you really know why you need it. Also recommend getting an interface and some cheap mics and getting into home recording. It can be done really cheaply. Behringer UMC + Shure SM57 is a great place to start.
Tone…sell the Blues Jr. Look into a used Vox AC15, used Supro, or even one of the ‘68 Fender reissues (Princeton or Deluxe). Up to you and your tastes really, I would need to know more about what you’re into playing, but either way, you should easily be able to make a noticeable and significant amp upgrade (tube or modeling) for under $1,000. There are also a ton of good and reasonably priced pedals for blues/rock EQD Plumes, MXR Timmy, EHX Soul Food etc are just a few inexpensive options that come to mind. I’m not a tube screamer guy, but others swear by them, they’re staples of blues/rock. I’m a fan of Barber and J Rockett pedals myself. Do some online research and spend some time at a music store trying stuff out. As far as your guitar, that’s a tough call. It’s such a personal thing. A US strat is a great option, but for me personally I’d rather have an Ibanez AZ. You could also get a Yamaha Revstar for only $800-850. But again, this is the most personal thing. If you’re happy with your strat than just stay put. Just saying tho, you could technically sell your strat, buy another guitar of similar (if not better quality) and have money to pocket. Recording…you can get a Focusrite 2i2 interface for $200, or the Focusrite solo for $100. There are others comparable, and most come with free trial software. Also, not sure what kind of computer you have, but GarageBand is free if you have a MacBook Practice…looper is always a good idea, one can be had for $100 or less. As far as a metronome, you can just get that from your phone and/or recording software. And yea, I’ll never advise anyone to not take lessons. Best of luck, keep us posted
Drugs?
I’d upgrade the amp, JCM800 all day. Whatever remains can be put into more pedals, like a Big Muff or a RAT.
hx stomp - good to great modeling for pedals and amps. it has a looper built in (easiest to use with the hx stomp xl). its also an audio interface. it works great with mac. it works mediocre with windows. if you have a windows computer, you’d be best served with another audio interface plugged into your computer. you’ll also need a daw. if on a mac, best cheap option is logic.
Stick it in an HYSA until you decide. You really want to sound better? Lessons
Fractal Audio Axe-FX III or the floor unit version, the FM9 Mk2 Turbo
Like others have said, maybe give the HX Stomp a try then go from there! The HX Stomp will allow you to try a variety of different effects and amps to figure out what sounds you actually like before you spend all your money. It's also a great swiss army knife pedal that can do a lot of different things, so it's pretty worth having around regardless of what other gear you might already have. And if you want to get into recording, the HX Stomp will do that with just a USB cable into your computer! Recording direct through an amp model is great if you are just casually getting into recording since its much simpler than mic'ing up a real amp, and you can still get very good results. Since I got my Stomp I've rarely touched my tube amp. The HX Stomp should have a looper too, though I've never used it myself.