Yeah, I have plenty of effects sources: Guitar Rig 3, riff works, GearBox, free ampSE 2.0, Drive stomp and hundreds of VST; plus my little amp has built-in effects.

I know when people think about effects, the last thing they think about is a compressor, because it’s not as cool as a whammy, wah, delay, etc.
But I’ve seeing the difference when I disengage the compressor on my multi-effects unit, Guitar Rig or GearBox. There is a big difference on the tone, plus my picking is somewhat aggressive and I need the compressor to keep the level in check and also for legato/tapping.

But, you are right Kevin, even with all the effects in the world; you are always going to end up using VST at some point of the recording process.
Thanks.