Well that's one $2400.00 solution, but you still don't get natural tube overdrive, tube amp touch sensitivity or the sound of the speakers working hard.

With regards to getting a good semi-distorted sound...what about this:

TECH 21 - SansAmp PSA 1.1

I've heard incredible things regarding this unit.

I once read a review of the PSA-1 stating it was the closest thing to simulate a Vox AC-30 and I think that's true.

The PSA-1 isn't great for full-on distortion unless you are looking for grainy, solid-state brutality.

However, when it comes to highly-tweakable semi-distortion this box really delivers.

That's why the PSA-1 also works so great on bass and snare and many other things. Add just bit of 'fur' without hollowing out the fundamental sound like a pedal would.

BTW, I have an original PSA-1 that I'm thinking of selling. I may put if up for sale here soon.

Ethos Overdrive TLE

Another option is the new Suhr Corso recording amp. Considering this is Gearslutz, I was amazed no one mentioned it

There is a great Pete Thorn demo on Youtube

What about using a distortion pedal in front of a Line6 Pod (clean sound)?

Will recording that work?
Will the distortion sound better than the Pod distortion (if I like the pedal better)
I know it won't be the same as a mic'd tube amp, I'm just wondering if buying a Boss SD1 is a good move considering that I can't record a miked amp in the apartment.

Bought one but haven't spent more than 1 hour with it yet. Anyone else?