A lot has to do with power amp, guitar, tubes and speakers. Also, how you ran the thing. I used the effects send for an output, but if I used the standard outputs, gain took on a whole new level, as in way more than human. There is unlimited gain if you turn the knobs up all the way, so much gain I doubt anyone would want that much, so,.... I'm not sure why some think gain would be a problem. As far as nasty tone goes, I offer anyone the opportunity to try any of my gear at an open mic to compare for themselves, lots of Marshall owner's with their tails between their legs after playing a Boogie.
So,.... believe what you want.