| Here is the problem with the Metaphors. It has a lot of good ideas, but with very poor implementation.
1) You can't use the DI as a balanced signal at the same time as running an unbalanced effected signal.
2) The EQ is boost-only in the low and high area. If you only ever want a flat or mid scooped sound then this is perfect. If you ever want to add mids, this is not ideal.
3) The distortion and compressor have no onboard method to control their response to the input. No gain knob, no threshold knob... zippo.
4) The footswitchable distortion is very hard to use live because it simply adds it into the mix. You can't select a distorted sound that brings down the volume of the clean or EQ'd sound and replaces it with the distortion, you have to add it in.
5) Compressor has a notable dip and swell action which I hate as a normal playing sound.
If none of those things will negatively impact your use of the pedal, then get it. I recommend the MXR M80; it is pretty transparent, versatile, intuitive EQ and reasonably priced.
If you want something that adds more color to your sound, then I am not the guy to ask. I strongly disliked my BDDI but tons of people love it. I even like sound clips of the BDDI but I just didn't like playing through it. YMMV. | 
EHX metaphors??? 
