Personally, I've never seen a digital multitracker which is even remotely as easy to use as a decent laptop (Mac or PC) with an Audio interface running in to a sequencer programme.
If you are stuggling with the computer programme, find someone who will show you what it will do and how to do it.
It really is much easier on a full sized screen that clicking through endless menus on tiny LCD efforts!
Having said that, I make my living teaching all this stuff, so I'm right inside the technically minded camp. On the other hand, I do see an awful lot of different systems during the course of the week, and the Multitrackers are a lot harder to use than a properly set-up professional studio.
What software was it that you were struggling with? Some are a lot easier than others. If you are anywhere local (to Worcester that is), I'll send you a student to show you what to do if you like.
Cheers
Dave