Vipros
A 10-20W will probably be alright, particularly if you want distorted tones.

Valve amps distort by overdriving the valves, so if you have too powerful a one it will get to ear-bleeding volume long before it distorts (you'll know what I mean if you've ever used or seen anyone playing a Fender Twin)

You won't get full on metal distortion but you will get that lovely bluesy valve break up that can't be achieved with solid state.

A second hand Cornell Romany would probably be in your budget, but that would rely on someone wanting to sell theirs... they're insanely good amps.
(Son of Sam-i-am We're all as mad as hatters here, Mon 22 Dec 2008, 10:53, Reply)