Whew! You said a mouth full!
Y'know what, I have maybe half a dozen digital recorders too, and though they do what they do pretty well, almost every one of 'em has some sort of glaring design deficiency. Whether that's in max-# tracks recordable simultaneously, number of inputs, mixer features or mixer routing functions,... there's not one of 'em that I've not been somewhat disappointed in. That goes for digital unit's I've bought, or maybe some I haven't bought.

Even the 788 disappointed me in the mixer section, (no internal bussing of inputs), but that's probably another post.
Of the several digital recorders I own personally, the Yamaha MD8 is the most highly equipped and capable machine in the stable. However, there are numerous analog setups I have that blow that whole field away. The Tascam 388 or M30 & 38, for example.
When it comes to analog/digital debates, it's primarily about what you're looking for in a recorder, and what features you may value over others.
F/I, the 788's a fine unit on most fronts, but there are still other little things I see as lacking, which in no way invalidates the value of the 788 as a Portastudio. It's just one person's opinion. Digital shines most brightly in respect to editing. Analog, on the other hand, is well known for it's simplicity, ease of use and robust sound quality. Again, that's only my opinion.
Ah, so,... to each their own & YMMV. Sorry for the cliches.
If you're using the 788 often, it's definitely worth getting the matching CDR, as it's almost essential. (Getting back to the primary topic).
PS: The M30 is the basic & ideally matched mixer to the 234, as would be the M308/312/320. I'd consider the 234 & M30 as a very nice system!
Good luck