I've gotta laugh at those bullshit "side-by-side" comparisons that Big Mike pays guys to do and post on Youtube (and don't think for a second that isn't what's happening most of the time). Mike is NOT a stupid businessman. He understands his demographic target group and he understands how to suck them in by "talking their language" and telling them what they want to hear. As a fellow (legal) businessman, I have to admit I admire Mikes knowledge of his consumers. He is VERY sharp (albeit, a bit condescending. In his mind NO ONE ever grew good smoke before he came along!).
While each individuals results will vary (due to variences in strains, phenotypes, lighting, temps, water quality, growing medium, etc.), 2 of my most recent grows WERE side-by-side comparisons using the basic AN (2-part) and FF (no additives) line-ups. Clones from same mother, all grown in the same batch of soil and under the same lighting/temps/humidity/etc (ie. I attempted to make it as objective as possible without the benefit of an actual horticultural lab). The result both times? Absolutely ZERO measureable difference, and no detectable difference in taste/smell/high/bag appeal.
Based upon my own observations and experiences, AN makes very good nutes that will grow top-shelf smoke. However, I can grow weed just as good for a fraction of the cost using FF's products. Now this IS in soil! I know several growers who prefer FF for soil, but won't use anything but AN for hydro grows. I guess whatever works for YOU and your specific application.........
Personally, the absolute best results I have ever had on an indoor grow were when I run the entire FF line-up (including additives) per the published schedule, BUT --- I also use Liquid Big Bud and Cal-Mag on the "water only" days during weeks 2 through 5 of flowering. With my main strain (Dinafem PowerKush clones from a really exceptional pheno) this seems to work better than anything I've found yet (Not to say I won't find something better in the future!). As far as outdoor grows, I've had my best results using absolutely NO nutes. Hike to my spot, plant the little bitches, and come back in the Fall to harvest. Many outdoor grows are "found" because of too much traffic, especially in my area!
Anyway, not to bash AN --- they make really good nutes. But they are not really any better than several other, much less expensive lines of nutes out there. If AN works best for you, then by all means use them. I've just found that for my particular application Fox Farms products work as good or better. But your mileage may vary.......