I bought my Charvel 750XL for $250 and that guitar carried me through high school and college as my main practice and jamming guitar. I will probably revive it soon with fresh hardware and pickups.
Sold my VH4, picked up an Engl Morse. Still waiting on an Ormsby Goliath. Other than that I've been swapping pickups a bit (shuffling them around and moving some spares out). I don't foresee any large purchases on the horizon.
That's what actually sold the amp for me. I loved the model and how articulate it was, it couldn't prepare me for how responsive it actually is in person.
I have a Triptik 100, and it is utterly gorgeous sounding. Channel A has massive range and the two high gain channels are fantastically versatile and responsive. Very tight bottom end, rich in the mids, paired it with a zilla cab with 65 cream backs and that reigns in the harsh treble you...
I had a Herbert and VH4 at the same time, the VH4 has lasted in my stable for considerably longer. There is something really special about the way the VH4 reacts to the way you play rhythms that is totally addictive. On another note you guys are solid, good drummer.
Depending on which era Sykes you are talking about a Mesa Boogie Mark will get you there, for the other two you would need something a little more British in flavor. Marks are highly saturated but tight and highly dynamic and reward a strict right hand technique. If you are after a slightly...