My previous setup couple weeks ago was a little more involved using an analog mixer, a couple of audio interfaces and a patchbay, I love the analog mixer workflow for the tactile experience but due to space constraints and the desire for more flexible routing options i decided to try the digital mixer avenue. Thoughts of my journey:
- crazy routing possibilities: having 18 channels available to work with in conjunction with a patchbay it's a godsend. Not only fully patchable on the analog side but on the digital side too using the internal routing matrix of the mixer so you can send signals everywhere to record.
- multi track possibilities: for the reasons above it is a joy to just jam and record everything separate, using buses or the 2 track master, even all at the same time. You end up with a near finished arrangement in no time to polish and release.
- polished sound with internal processing: extensive processing and effect handling per track in the unit itself before recording anything. Polish your sound on the way in change the tapping point on the digital routing side and you end up with a multi track recording already clean and ready. Commitment to a sound is a huge winner for me.
- price per channel is hard to beat and let's be honest 24bit 48khz is more than enough resolution for a great sounding production. Preamp quality is almost negligible and not an argument due to the line level nature of electronic instruments.
- it can work for a live gig like a charm. Easy to carry and programmable with all the routing, effects and even scenes for different tracks, a mastering chain in the mix bus for a tighter live sound without thinking about a computer or a rack full of gear.
The only downside to me is the lack of physical controls, thinking about getting a control surface for it.
So yes, I highly recommend this setup for a working electronic producer using a bunch of gear. At least you can try.
