Dig the tone, too! I also prefer the simple rig. Just a guitar to amplifier and maybe a distortion and an overdrive pedal in between only if needed. Good shredding, too.
But i gotta admit that i'm very very inclined to pedals esp delays. Anyway, i do have an advantage i guess. Cos i'm using an above average amp. In my opinion, most 30 watts amp and have pretty decent drive channel. Some 15watts too.