I can't get along with PODs. I've heard people use them with some success. But to me (when I'm playing through them) they always sound too digital and lifeless and over-processed to me. I'm currently using a Boss GT-8 and it does the job fine...but it's not my dream set up. (That is on the way! Muwahahaha!)

Ideally all you need is a great tube amp and a few stomp boxes to get the best possible guitar tone in my opinion...no matter what kind of music you play.