So folks, to sum it all up: Vary the effects you practice with because they affect different techniques. I had to borrow an amp to play live (or just to practice with one) for my first 3 years and I can honestly say that I was a lot better than anyone I started playing with after those three years. Those guys only had to step on a pedal to sound decent and enjoy themselves, whereas I had to actually play something. As a result, they got an education and a career and are now making some decent cash, and I followed my musical dreams and am now an alcoholic. hahaha.