Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions
Well, I really like Mesas. The first thing I would do would be to check out your Single Rec and make sure that the tubes are up to snuff. A microphonic tube can "smear" the tone in a very unmusical way, and ruin the response of an amp. Then you might want to do a little "amplifier blue-printing", to try various mfgs. tubes in the pre-amp sockets. (I have a GT-12AX7-M in V1, a JJ in V2, and an EH in V3 in my Mark IV, for example.) And check those power tubes, too. A new set of "Winged C" 6L6s might be what you need.
If you've still decided to give up on your Single Rec, take a look at the new Stiletto--a different take on the Rectos--if you need a hard rockin' amp. Stick with the lower-powered Deuce.
For a good cover band amp doing classic rock, jazz, blues, etc., hey, it is still really hard to beat a Mark Series Combo with a 112 Theile cab underneath. The learning curve on the Mark III is easy, and it's a better "live" amp than the Mark IV--but the Mark IV still rules with its options. The new Lonestars are pretty cool, too. Again, I like the 112 combo with another 112 extension cab.
And believe it or not, the Maverick is a rocking amp. You are correct, it is not high gain, and it is only 30 watts Class A, BUT---think Allman Bros. Plexi tone in the Lead Channel; with a thick, luscious, breathy clean tone. I added a Recto 212 to my Maverick 212 combo for a potent half-stack that is really portable.
And if you are going to go over to the "dark" side and play a Marshall--there are are all kinds of options. The JTM-45 is a great place to start. For a more modern amp, the TSL122 is my fave or its little brother, the TSL602. Again, a 212 extention is a great addition, really adding to the flexibility.
I have a number of differently sized amps--the trick is to match the amp not only to your style--but to the size of the venue--ESPECIALLY if like that "pushed" amp tone--you may want a lower wattage amp.
Good luck in your search.
Bill