I say to each their own. I don't want to start a flame war but I can't just let bold statements like "it sounds like crap" go by without better qualifying it. BTW...I gave you the
positive rep point.
just to show my sincerity. Besides...my feelings are hurt now because I own one.
Before buying anything I would recommend you test for yourself. I for one think
the B-52 AT100 has some great sounds in it at a great price. A true tri-mode rectifier, all tube amp, loads of gain (if you're looking for that sort of sound). I peg it to be squarely between a Marshall and a Mesa in terms of sound output. Not a lot of features but it's a no nonsense sort of amp. The reverb is lame I'll say that much for it. It would be nice to have seperate EQ controls for both gain channels. It's no mesa but worth a look and a fair review.
I make comments and comparisons based on currently owning these amps;
Mesa Triple Recto Head - purchased new 2004
Univalve - purchased new 2005
B-52 AT100 - purchased new 2006
Peavey JSX - purchased used but in nice condition 2005
The mesa...hands down winner and works for just about anything but way too expensive for what it is (IMHO). I think there's a premium you pay just for the name brand here.
Univalve...very tasty for Blues/Rock and vintage rock. You "can" get metal sounds but not it's forte'. A whole different animal. I like it for the built in hot plate and low power. Great for studio recording at lower levels.
B-52...a solid rock/metal amp. Lots of gain with a sterile clean and loud clean channel (too clean if you ask me...I usually run a touch of distortion pedal into it to warm it up). Product support is very good with a 5 year warranty. I plug this box for someone who might be on a tight budget.
Peavey JSX...a bit like the B-52 with a few more features to rival the mesa but to me has a bit of a sizzly/buzzy sound to it. Too much money when new IMHO. It's for sale btw, hoping a work mate will take it off my hands in a week or so. If not, I'll post here to let someone else have a shot at it.
Bottom line, the B-52 isn't everyone's cup of tea, just like the VOX AC30 doesn't sound so hot to me...It's not my sort of sound. Each person hears things a little differently and reviews are a dime a dozen (my review could be way off base too). Get your butt down to the music stores and beat their stuff before you buy.
Peace