Well, this could get long! I find it ironic, wanting a stripped down "purist style" amp, then wanting to put a multi-effect unit in front? Now, the amp's pre-amp is said to be well suited for pedal effects, especially when in less mode (one pre-amp stage de-activated) for more quiet, sensitive operation, but I find myself playing in the more mode most often!
Now, to the effects: I'm not sure about the multi-effect set-up because of the delays and reverbs, and effects that sound better after a pre-amp, or after production! Wahs, boosts, distortions, overdrives, chorus', flangers, etc, etc, are fine in front, but unless your playing clean, the delays and verbs are better left out, and though the amp does sound great in a clean setting, it's not exactly a jangle machine, it's true calling is intense distorted tones!
It's just an amp that really shines from it's simplistic design, if effects are your thing, I might consider the same philosophy, staying with pedals, true-bypass, all analog, good cables, etc, etc! Good Luck, you'll love this amp, I do!
