Spider II is hands-down the best amp you can get for under $300. now, there are much better amps out there, but until you get into the $500-600 price range, the spider II is your best option.

about the guitar, seems to me it's the exact same gibson guitar with different cosmetics... not that that's a bad thing, I play an SG and I love it! I personally don't like the looks of the menace, but if you do, then that's all that matters!

you did make some good decisions, so don't sweat it. I personally would've gone with a cheaper guitar and a more expensive amp, but that's just me.