I got the big one with the 3 10" speaks. Ive had it for 2 years now, and to be honest, ive probly only got 20 hours played thru it. I actually wanted the Jazz chorus, but Musicians Friend was out of stock, and I was impatient. I was able to get some pretty good
Chili Peppers sound out of it, but other than that, my smaller, cheaper Marshall out-tones it any day.
I havnt experienced any of the aftertones you speak of tho. I dont think its a bad amp overall. I mean to play it one of these days...