the v2.4 is in beta testing since last week. I can confirm that the hidden tracks issue is fixed and some great features like the input tracks control and Studio sends for Cubase & Nuendo are added.
It's almost impossible for Smart AV to announce an exact date of release, but It should be out for end of March. I hope as much as you that it will be ready sooner.
Niko has promised to not eat, sleep and will be maintained locked inside Smart AV walls until then
http://www.floatingpointaudio.com Nuendo 5.x, Pyramix v7 beta 3, Cubase 5.x, Logic Pro 9.x XP Pro SP3 - Windows 7 Ultimate 64 / Snow Leopard - Tango 32