Walls and Ceilings - Tin Ceiling vs. T-bar vs. Drywall in basement

I'm finishing the basement in a 100 year old house I just bought in Canada. There are all sorts of pipes and wiring running through the exposed ceiling joists -- some of it we're updating. I'd like to be able to maintain access to the pipes and wiring if possible, so I've been looking different options. The ceiling is less than 8 feet, and most drop ceiling require several inches of clearance, so I'm reluctant to go that route.

So I've looked into a tin ceiling, which we used to have in a previous old house. They come in 2x2 panels. I read in another thread on this site that you all recommended some plywood backing for a tin ceiling. Why? Can't I just put up furring strips 6 inches apart and screw the tiles up? This way I can screw them right off in case I need to get up there. What do you think?

Of course, drywall is another option, but then I lose access. But perhaps I don't need access after all. I'd appreciate some guidance.

In the cases where I installed the tin ceilings, the manufacturers specs called for a min 3/8" - 1/2" sheeted surface under the tin tiles, IMO, I don't see why these can't applied over a gridded system as you described, other than it would void manufacturer's warranty, but this face it, how many times you ever heard of someone calling in a warranty on that type of ceiling?

Other thought is, once the updates to wiring, plumbing, etc are done, you shouldn't really need to get access up there and drywall is the cheapest route to go, at least in this area.

I recently installed a new type of ceiling in my basement that has only a 7' clearance - Kraedl Ceilings (www.kraedl.com). The ceiling attaches to the joists, has adjustments for uneven joists, allows for future access, the panels are washable and I was able to select colors that complimented my carpet an furniture. This ceiling is a great alternative to a drop ceiling.