I have looked at both the BR8 and the 840. IF you look hard enough, you can find a VS840 or an 840EX for $699.

I recently purchased a new (never opened) 840 and EX upgrade (sans 250 meg zip) for $300... So they are out there if you look hard enough.

I like the 840 much better than the BR8. There are a lot more effects. The BR8 offers only limited Chorus and Reverbs - when you take away the cosm amp simulators.

Just an opinion though...