Thanks, Russell ...
It did work reasonably well with a dry, clean signal, although I wasn't content with the tonal quality. I'm probably expecting too much from it. Your solution to dealing with effects is also what he recommended, being a looper, recording gear, or software of some kind. I don't have any of that, and don't plan on buying any of those things.
And as you also mention, it's best used with basic chord patterns. I like & play mostly Prog Rock, so not to be boastful, but the TRIO just doesn't compliment this genre very well. For most blues, country, rock & roll, or folk I think it's ideal. I didn't have far to go for the return, as the music store where I got it is literally two streets over from where I live.
Thanks for the advice, Russell ... much appreciated.