Hah, just saw this thread. That was my first impression as well - which the fellas here kindly addressed for me: Restoring All Factory Rigs & Reducing Fizz
Once you tweak it a bit and get everything set up right, you'll start to hear the difference in all the sweet amps available. Then you'll get addicted.
I think we need to post a "Hey New Guy, Don't Panic Till You Try This" guide...