Try looking into an ADA MP1. That preamp pretty much started the preamp "revolution"...
You can get an MP1 for around $150, possibly even less on ebay. Which represents the best tone for the money. The MP1s tone is legendary for rock and shred tones, but also has a good clean tone. The only effect it has is a chorus.
What's the difference between a puppy and a singer-songwriter?
Eventually the puppy stops whining.