First of all, thanks for the input guys, I really appreciate it.
dagosto, if I don't go the multi-effects route, is there any brands other than Boss that you might suggest me shying away from having too many of?
FRETPICK, do you have experience (or do you own) the GT-8? I just was wondering, I haven't got too much input from people who have actually spent a significant amount of time with it.
Also, for what it's worth, I should point out that I feel I'm relatively computer savvy, so anything that ties in software wise is a plus. I use a PC mainly, but Mac's occasionally, so operating systems aren't really an issue, although... dare I say it, I actually prefer the PC.