I'm going to throw my one humble opinion on this. I, too, was in the same boat, torn between a BR-8 and
the VS-840EX. But then
the Tascam 788 came out. Out the door went the other two. My purpose for the recorder is strictly vocals, with occassional live keys, bass, and/or guitar, used with MIDI sequences, in a demo/indie production manner. After having it for just over two months, I have to say that this thing kicks major @$$! If you've got the money, from what info I've been privy to, the DPS16 is a killer. But for budget, or if your near future needs don't call for it, the 788 is the best bet at anywhere near the price. I also purchased the CDR788 for it (I already have a standalone CD recorder, but wanted this for backup). Put up against the Yamaha's CD burner, which doesn't let you edit space between tracks (you have to edit the end of your song), pending the multiple CD writing function (on it's way), it rules.
I have to say that this is one of my favorite pieces of gear. Useful onboard effects (the compressors are more usable that average, just don't expect dbx's even), 24bit uncompressed recording. Awesome machine. You owe it to yourself to check it out.
L8tr!