I'm just about ready to drop my cash on one of these rigs. The VX-7R is the direction I'm leaning, but since it came out in 2002 and the VX-8R is the newest in the series and only about $80.00 more, I want to be sure I make a good decision. I've read and re-read all the specs and info I could find, but there is no substitute for using the rig, so I would appreciate any input from those of you who have owned or used these two rigs. What is the functional difference? I know the 8R has the ARPS and optional blue tooth and GPS. Any info or advice is always appreciated!