Vortex Sound Research

I'm starting from scratch with a new setup. Previously I used an Roland KC-60 and absolutely loved it. The only thing that was annoying was distortion when using more than one channel.

I've been thinking that a guitar or bass amplifier would suit me better than powered speakers, but I'm a novice and don't really know forsure.

I know powered speakers are better than amps, but I'm not looking for a clean sound. I play alot of garage rock, synth punk, and noise rock. What would you recommend? Should I go with powered speakers anyways?