DigiTech GNX4 or Multi-track machine?

I have seen more and more machines for guitar players that have some kind of recording and or CD burning part in it.
I wonder if it has the editing and mixing possiblilites as in the software computer programs and audio interfaces.

Dogbite, heres a list of features for the GNX4. Notice the included software. I'm not computer saavy, much less when it comes to recording on PC, so i really dont know if this is the sort of thing youre referring to.
DigiTech GNX4 Guitar Workstation Features:

15 guitar amp models
10 bass amp models
Distortion stompbox modeling
Hypermodel creation for unlimited tones
11 simultaneous effects
Built-in 8-track digital recorder
6 channels of audio streaming
Mic preamp with 48V phantom power for recording vocals
Stereo line inputs
JamMan Delay Looper with 8 levels of undo
Built-in MIDI drum machine with multiple patterns and kits, plus MIDI file compatibility
CompactFlash memory
80 user, 80 factory presets
24-bit A/D conversion
Included software: Pro Tracks Plus, Lexicon Pantheon Reverb Plug-in
Cakewalk Pyro Express CD burning, BIAS Deck 3.5 SE Mac recording software, and X-Edit Editor/Librarian software

wow. that is loaded. the Lexicon Pantheon reverb has a reputation for being the choicest around.

and it looks like you can fine tune your recording with the editor.
nice thing.

You can record right into ProTracks so, you get a full on multitrack DAW. I've never used that particular software but for the price, why complain? It looks to be a reasonable facsimile of Guitar Tracks or Cubase SE. My Bro has the GNX3 and it sounds pretty good.

Hueseph, the price also impresses me. it seems like a big investment when you first look at it, but you get A LOT of stuff for that. beside the 8 track and all the models and software, you also get the Jam Man Looper, which goes for 250-300 USD by itself if im not mistaken, AND the Whammy pedal, which is another couple hundred by itself (i think).
and what is DAW?

Digital Audio Workstation.

thanks, Hueseph! i dont know if i mentioned it before, but i have NO experience recording, if you couldnt have figured that out.
so can any of you guys see an advantage to having an actual multi-track machine rather than having the GNX4 unit? i really want to start recording, and it seems like the digitech machine can give me a lot for my dollar.

I personally think that the stand alone recorders are limiting. Limited in track count. Limited to audio. Limited to onboard or hardware effects. Limited editing capabilities. If you can record or import your tracks to a computer all of a sudden you have midi capability, hundreds of freely (and legally) downloadable effects and virtual instruments and most importantly, graphical editing. So, doing simple tasks like editing out all the dead space to minimize noise from your tracks becomes so much easier. With the GNX4 you have the portability of a standalone recorder with the added ability to use it as a usb audio interface to your DAW.

Hueseph, thank you very much. that was a very well spoken and informative argument! as i said, i havent done any recording, so i dont even know the basics. from what you say, a machine like the GNX has even more advantages than i would have even guessed. i was sold on the fact that it was a processor with gobs of effects, an 8 track, a drum machine and has a bunch of software for me when i finally get a computer.
thanks a lot for your input!

I agre with Hueseph - having done both. I would try a recording program rather than an all in one box. They get SO complicated you have to memorize the manual. And changing setting s becomes very difficult because you have to go through so many steps. With a DAW everything is on your screen and easily accessible.