VG-99 is NOT a guitar-to-MIDI device per se, but uses a processor for each string to "shape" the strings sound into something else. The GR-55 is a true pitch-to-MIDI interface.
Like all things, it takes practice and experimenting. Certain patches work better with certain sensitivity levels. Also technique plays a HUGE role in how cleanly the unit tracks. Ghost notes are more a function of the player accidentally 'pinching' a harmonic, or causing excessive string noise. I owned a VG-8, VG-88, and VG-99 and there's zero latency because it's a guitar and amp modeler, not a MIDI converter. The GR-55 is Roland's fastest converter. You get the hang of playing slightly 'in front' of the beat. It also cleans up your technique. In the hands of Gundy Keller, Alex Hutchings, and Burr Johnson, the effects are nothing short of amazing.
The only tracking issues with GR-55 may be with the low E and A strings, but even then for what I use it for, it's plenty fast. Also a piezo hex pickup will respond a bit faster than a mag hex and give better acoustic modeling sounds, but the mag hex will give you better modeled electric and amp sounds.
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