You can't go0 wrong with a Pod XT pro, and it's also worth it's weight in gold in the studio.
Boss GT6 sounds great going direct to PA. Easy on the pocket book 2. ($300 on ebay) I use this direct to 2 JBL EON G2 15s...and it rocks. Very versitile too.
A second thumbs up for the Vox and the Valvetronix amps sound incredible tracked with a Royer R121 ribbon.
I just bought the Vox Tonelab se about a month ago and it kicks ass! I gave my POD 2.0 to my kids!
Vox Tonelab and /or Pod 2.0 in that order. Sent the Pod XT back. To many functions, seemed to detract from the tone to me.