How do I disable visual effects in Ubuntu 12.04.1?
Solution 1:
First of all, you might want to try Unity 2D; just select it when logging in. You will have no 3D desktop, but you will keep the HUD and other Unity goodies.
Second solution is to install the Compiz Settings Manager, known as ccsm, and tune it to your heart's content. You will still be using Compiz, but you can switch off annoying eye-candies, if that is what you want.
There is no way of keeping Unity 3D without Compiz, because it is a Compiz plugin.