replacing tub surround: pros and cons glue-up vs direct-to-stud?
Pros:

Glue up


wall is flatter, less variance, less warping
generally easier to install (once prepped/drywall up)
if going drywall underneath less echo/tin can sound
on a direct install you must be able to pack the cavity with insulation to prevent push-in and (more) echoes, glue up you don't worry about that
transition to other parts of the bathroom is easy since drywall to drywall or drywall to backer is really no transition


Direct


Can have it installed very quickly (no prep)
don't have to worry about water affecting what is behind it
the more expensive ones have good transition molding that allows you to install drywall after with small seam to be caulked.