i haven't tried the new one, but i tried my old avt100 last night for the first time since i got my engl (unfair comparison i know), and I almost killed myself it sucked so much. (exagerration for comedic effect)
the 100 is basically the clean, od1 and od2 channels of the 150.
basically, unless they've drastically improved the OD channels (the clean is the best channel, ironically), which i doubt (but am willing to be proved wrong in), it's not a good amp for the cash.
I'd look into some 30/50 watt tube amps- peavey classic 30, valveking, marshall dsl401, laney lc and vc 30 (haven't tried these laneys, but i hope to soon, and i hear good things- the other laneys i've tried have been very good), ashdown fallen angel (more metal), maybe even a fender hotrod (i didn't like the od channels on it though). You just need to try as many of those as you can, to see which you prefer.
That's about all i can think of in that price range... you aren't in too bad a place, though, because if the heaviest you play is VR and G N R, those amps will handle it fine, and are in your budget.
:drink: