In addition to convincing sounds that translate well to record, the issue of efficient workflow also comes to mind.

I was using a Moog Taurus pedal back in the early 90's.  It took a bit of time to warm up & therefore stay in tune consistently.  Now, I open up a track template, pull up a preset, back to work in seconds from the time the "inspiration" came and I'm putting the unit to work in the project.

This was one of the reasons I went with the Arturia package.  I can't possibly afford to acquire every single one of those famed pieces of hardware, not to mention getting them proplerly insured, maintained, and hooked up in such a way that I can access the sound quickly and manipulate them as needed in a manner that fosters an efficient workflow.