^ lol at TO's post, +1.
the randall rg50tc would be another to look at around the VK's budget. Also, if you can wait, and if it sounds like its bigger brother (the 100 watt head), the peavey windsor combo might be worth a look for 80's metal tones.
I haven't tried the thunder, but the screamer is far better than all of those, by the way, in my opinion of course. I said it in your other thread, but a genz benz el diablo combo would be worth a look too.
it really depends how much money you have, how long you're willing to wait for something that kicks ass rather than something budget "that'll do", etc., etc.