I have a few cobs, and a few rusticated Savinellis. I agree with the Savinellis being great smokers. I mistakenly bought a system pipe when I was first reaquainting myself with pipe smoking after a long layoff. I guess I enjoyed the filter at the time, but now really don't use it. It does occasionally prevent burble, but so does a well-crafted pipe with proper airflow. My tobaccos tend to stay toward the virginias/burleys, as I consider myself a novice, and have not yet developed a taste for the English blends. I figure it will come, just like an appreciation of fine whiskeys or wines (or knives!). Hearth and Home seems to be my "brand" of choice.
While we're on the topic, does anybody have a preference as to what kind of implements one uses for the crafting of a fine smoke? I mean to say, tampers, tools, and lighters. There are all kinds of fancy and upscale items out there, but I keep it pretty basic myself. I use a zippo with a thunderbird pipe insert. I like it just fine. Haven't had much luck with piezoelectric ignition in pipe lighters. No special tamper, etc for me. I use a czech tool.
