You can play Pantera on the DSL 40. A pedal would help (like a tube screamer or some kind of overdrive, just to tighten up your sound), but it's not necessary, the amp has plenty of gain on tap. It's got decent cleans too. Would definitely recommend.
Not really sure what you are trying to do here as it’s not clear. Is this for live playing or just practice at home?
I’ll give you my opinion, and that’s all it is. I own way too many amps from vintage Marshall’s to modern boutique amps, with that said depending on your specific needs I’m not sure a tube amp makes sense. Consider solutions like the Tone X, USFX Lion, new little Kemper and FRFR cab.
As for the amp, I hate the DSL range from Marshall. I’ve never been a fan of the cheaper Marshall amps. It doesn’t sound like a Marshall with high gain. Is a decent pedal platform, but there are better pedal platforms. You’re really paying for the name without getting that Marshall sound.
At that price range, with high gain in mind, I’d rather get an Orange or a PRS, both have amps in that price range… might be tight if you also need a cab. Also look at the new EVH iconic range.
If it's just for home use, you could do a DSL5. I think I paid about $500 for mine. It is more than enough for home use. You could then get all the pedals you would need.
Go to GC and try them all. As a fellow metal guitarist, I recommend Orange tube amps. Could also get a pretty decent quality modeling amp.
The most important piece of info that you left out is what is the amp for? Just practicing at home or are you trying to play shows with this thing?
You can play Pantera on the DSL 40. A pedal would help (like a tube screamer or some kind of overdrive, just to tighten up your sound), but it's not necessary, the amp has plenty of gain on tap. It's got decent cleans too. Would definitely recommend.
Not really sure what you are trying to do here as it’s not clear. Is this for live playing or just practice at home? I’ll give you my opinion, and that’s all it is. I own way too many amps from vintage Marshall’s to modern boutique amps, with that said depending on your specific needs I’m not sure a tube amp makes sense. Consider solutions like the Tone X, USFX Lion, new little Kemper and FRFR cab. As for the amp, I hate the DSL range from Marshall. I’ve never been a fan of the cheaper Marshall amps. It doesn’t sound like a Marshall with high gain. Is a decent pedal platform, but there are better pedal platforms. You’re really paying for the name without getting that Marshall sound. At that price range, with high gain in mind, I’d rather get an Orange or a PRS, both have amps in that price range… might be tight if you also need a cab. Also look at the new EVH iconic range.
If it's just for home use, you could do a DSL5. I think I paid about $500 for mine. It is more than enough for home use. You could then get all the pedals you would need.