The Presonus also has two digital inputs and 24/192 DA converters in it, which the Mackie doesn't. The Presonus is more along the lines of what I need, as I really don't have the space for a desktop unit and all the cable mess that will go along with that. The built in converters will also come in handy.
Albert... cool... I went to school in Iowa City (lived there for 6 years) and I actually work in Coralville. I commute from the North end of Marion (wayyyyyy out on the Northeast side) to Coralville.
Do you know if the Presonus unit is actually available yet?
Velvet, I went to West High in Iowa City, and Central Junior High before that. Central doesn't exist anymore. It was this big old Victorian building with hot water radiators for heat, and a bunch of trailers on the lot for extra classrooms. The building was interesting though, hated to see that bit of history go away. Before junoir high I went to Kirkwood Elementary School in Coralville. My Dad was minister at the Methodist Church there for a while.
As far as the Presonus Central Station, it's not available yet. The unit they had on display at the NAMM show was their first prototype, and I don't think it was fully functional, although it was able to switch between two sets of speakers.
But I think they expect to have it out pretty soon, like in a matter of weeks or a month or so. They are going to send me one to review for Sonic State, so I'm looking forward to that.