Got the 18" tube, love using mine when I actually break down and get out the charcoal and do a real fire cook. Being able to quickly and conveniently change up the smoke flavor...there is something to that. From Mesquite for steaks or Pecan/Cherry, Pecan/Apple, Hickory.... You know what I am talking about!
As for the ribs..... glad I wasn't there! You might have missed out on your own hard work!
Dan