We spent some time yesterday listening to the 2480's mic pres and auditioning some of the mic preamp modeling software that came with the VS8F-3 card.  The amp modeling software in the 2480 is pretty useful.   It comes with the whole vocal channel:  compressor, expander, de esser, EQ and preamp selector.  Preamp models inlude models like Manley, Neve, Millenia etc.  I liked the Manley (imparted a bit of warmth over and above the standard 2480 pre) and Neve (a little more open).  The differences between models is subtle.  We also spent some time  A /B listening to the Mackie Onyx pres and the standard 2480 pres (no models).   I would say the main difference is that the 2480 has a brighter top end.  Both are very good depending on your application.

We also spent some more time with the LA2A plugin software (the main reason I bought the VS8F-3 card).   I love this plug in  especially on  a vocal track.  This is the most useful compressor I've ever used.  It's very simple to use with only 2 knobs ie; gain and compressor.  The more you slam the audio into the wall, the warmer and thicker it sounds.  It's quite interesting, and easy to get too carried away with.  I'll have to watch it.