Originally Posted by: aschlemanbut the POD is the way to go... or even a GNX3 or 4 would be great.

i can personally attest for the Digitech GNX3 that it sounds great. the looper function on it is also incredibly fun.

the Korg Toneworks AX2000G is also a great sounding multieffects for the same amount. you can still afford a reasonable amp for that price too.