Carvins are AWSOME amps for the money...you really can't beat them for the price and they sound incredible...I had an sx200 halfstack and the thing just crushed!Everyone who heard it,the clean channel especially,was astounded when I told them it wasn't tube.

What model are you looking into?If high gain is your thing,they have a new amp coming out called the V3 I think.It looks like a mesa recto or peavey XXX.So if thats your thing,you might wanna wait for that.

If you want nice cleans,then the bel airs take the cake...I would take a carvin over fender any day of the week.

The steve vai model is great too ive heard.

All in all...go for a Carvin.Great for those who have less then a grand to spend on an amp.