Tube Amp vs. HD500x

I know what guitar purists will say, and I probably will some day, but I am new to guitar and am learning.



Here is my situation (briefly):



I am a worship leader who has led on keys for about 15 years. I have found that I feel more comfortable with a guitar (oddly), but I am still learning. I need a tool that will give me a good education, but also allow for some flexibility in tone. If there is a major difference in tone, I would go for the amp, but if the HD500x is close in it's emulation, it would help me with it's diversity and effects.



How good do the emu's of the HD500x sound against the real deals? Which would you recommend for someone who is still learning?



(The amp I am looking at is a Vox AC15, but wouldn't mind saving a bit with a Bugera v22 if they sound decent. I will be going and playing them soon to get a feel, but still would like some insight)



Thanks in advance.

Tube Amp vs. HD500x