I have to agree with cantoresq. Music is something which speaks to the soul, and the right tune can really transform a davening.
The nusach was established to do just that. Of course, you need a chazzan who is really trying to daven a meaningful davening, not just someone who is trying to make himself sound good, and enjoys listening to himself. It takes a special person to do that, but ultimately, the nusach, when used properly, does have an effect on the davening.
Imagine Kol Nidrei without the nusach for it, and how it would change the davening.