jonbah,I have never had a chance to use a ts480sat,but i have heard a few.Both are hams out of california and the audio sounded great,clean with a 5/9 signal.
I'm not sure how user friendly the menu is. This rig so far has good reviews.
If i remember right someone from the forum had one of this rigs at one time,maybe they can help.
73,Stu