[Darko]

Playing through a pedal is okay when you're limited on funds and are just using a practice amp, but when you make the move to a half-stack set up, get an amp that has good enough distortion that you don't need the pedal. Nearly all pedals sound like crap at higher volumes.

A good pedal that isn't too expensive is a Metal Zone. Don't know the make of it, but it's a pretty common pedal and doesn't run for much used.