I use MS-Paint by for pixel-art is good and for make the graphics pixel-at-pixel you not need more...
But after view all the demoscenes considered pixel-art, i think not all is made pixel-at-pixel and use tricks or short-cuts for make dithering, forms, AA, reflections, etc...
I talk with another amiga pixel-artist, and he said me with deluxe-paint is more easy make pixel-art that with other program (this is their opinion) have the perfect tools to make this, anti-alias, dithering etc... and for demoscene logos not all is make pixet-by-pixel. He make first the line-art and create the bevel. After get a texture decrease colors and retouch the pixels for their line-art and put the anti-alias automatic using the colors(all in grey scale) and for finish change the palete, create details pixel-at-pixel for all the draw etc... and have the demoscene logo.
Now, with this steps i have an idea that how can make the incredibles demoscene logos in pixel-art.
You said all the demoscene logos can made in Ms-Paint(just take longer). I view this, and think he not use Ms-paint jejeje, and think for make this in Ms-Paint is imposible. If you get the image and zoom view imperceptible colors or soften on this. I not think this image its made pixel-at-pixel.
http://gfxzone.org/theme/5_bit/01/peachy-scheryl_lee.pngI view more demoscene logos and all the artists in gfxzone etc.. have a logo... but i looking for a "demoscene tutorial logo" and i not find nothing. I view tutorials of pixel-art that all types... by why no anybody made a demoscene tutorial logo of pixel-art? I think will be interesting...