Bit late to respond to this, but I find pedals like the Broughton Fliptop or the SVPre really useful, both for practice and gigs. The Origin Effects and Jad Freer stuff is probably even better, although haven't had a chance to try those yet.
Hi everyone, a quick hello from me as I've just created a new account. I'm Dave, based in SE London, I play jazz, I like short scales with dead strings, pedals that that make new amps sound old, and cabs that weigh as little as possible..