Unfortunately, I don't have the time or energy to spend 200 bucks on a shipment from the States. Amazon occasionally have sales on DR strings so I snap them up when I can. £25 is the best price I see nowadays.
I was after a more neutral preamp with a DI that could do the edge of valve breakup sound. I have been looking at this, the Battalion and the Tonehammer. Have to say, the Laney has impressed me in all the soundclips.
Unfortunately, the only real world solution is constant and continued back strengthening and conditioning exercises at least every other day. Just a few simple moves for a few minutes a day keeps everything in check.