Vitoos ISO 8 is a cracking little unit. Been using one for a few years now and no problems. Fits really well under a pedal board too being as it's so slim. As you say, shame they're no longer made,
What other instruments do you have in the band , what sort of music do you play, what sort of gigs do you do? Also what sort of budget do you have? These things will help people to give you objective advice.
I use an Ampeg Scrambler and a recently acquired EHX Battalion (both standard pedal size). The Scrambler gives a nice bit of low gain breakup (but will do much more) and the Battalion gives a much more aggressive drive. Gigged it for the first time last night and got lots of positive feedback.
Nope. The couple of CD/Albums I played on were a painfully tedious affair. I've played with some amazing musicians, many of whom were an absolute pain in the derriere. Can't beat going out and having a bit of fun with some mates and coming home with a bit of cash in your pocket.
My understanding of 'Hifi' is High Fidelity, as in unaltered. I don't understand why people who seek this don't just use a decent power amp. That's about as hifi as it gets.