I think, from a full time audio engineer's standpoint, the 880EX isn't very professional. That said, it wasn't designed for full time audio engineers. It was designed for serious musicians. Therefore, it can be professional, as it's simply a tool like any other. I've owned several pieces of Roland gear over the years, and the 880EX is no less "professional" than my D50. The 880EX has been since the late 90's, and sadly, continues to be the backbone of my home studio. Up 'til around 2005, I used it professionally.