I've never had a problem with crates gear myself, but im sure people have. Any equitment i suppose does haveits risks.

Some of those you mentioned can be priced high in certain places. I wouldnt spend alotof money on something i would only use as a pratice backstage amp. I agree though, i also like to get the best for my money. The once you talked of are good...I guess it all depends on how much he really wants to spend