There is a few things I would like to say...
First off I have never like tascam (there was a time when they were refered as trash can), so I might be a bit biased.
8 tracks is never enough. Trust me on this.
I don't know about the effects they are using so I won't comment on that.
Computer compatibility will be iffy at best (my opinion)
I money is your biggest hurdle, then that may be your only answer.
If your are going to go with a stand alone there are alot better options (Yamaha for example)