BIG disadvantage: no longer scsi bus for extension a.s.o. I'd rather go with a 2480, if possible. Ask over at the vsplanet.com - they have a 2480 forum... I did not like the feeling in that 2480 forum too much, though, when I was considering buying one (they seemed to whimp around alot and the rest was dissing). I got a cheap 1680 and use that together with my 880ex. But the advantages of the 24xxx are: better EQ and channel dynamics, more scenes a.s.o.
Ask there - I'm sure the guys who get everything that is new and expensive have left by now, and the rest should be helpful...
aXel