how exactly are you recording your album? It really shouldn't be that big of deal punching in-- especially if you have a Good Engineer. In fact, I personally prefer punching in during transitions between clean and dirty, because it
A) allows me to hold out notes/chords through the transition-- something that is otherwise impossible in real time...
B) I often switch amps anyways, using one for cleans and the other for Distortion.
I don't think punching in is that big of price to pay if you want the best tone...If I were you, I would record your album (especially if you really like the Distortion Tone) then sell off the V2.
...
I can definitely understand it being a deal-breaker in a live situation.