Won't get AIC/VH tones though. It can sort of pull off a different flavor of that sound, especially through GB type speakers, but it's definitely a different sound and feel. Very distinct, those Marks...
That's pretty much my ideal rock tone too (more on the AIC side) and I've been using a Mark IV as my main amp for a couple years now. It's tight as hell and "chewy" but a Mark sounds like a Mark. It has that defined gain structure that is very unique.
But-When I slap my Bogner Red into the clean channel, it NAILS that tone!
JCM800 clone from Ceriatone and get him to do few mods you researched. Maybe a few tweaks to the premp to get more gin and a PPIMV for thickness and "chewiness" while retaining that signture Marshall crunch... OR start looking t the redesigned Fortin Randall Diavlo series... 100 watter for 800$ and the trasher for what, 1300$??? Seriously... these will be serious amps.