Help with choosing a my next mixer?

[Stickman0_2]

At the moment I'm using a Behringer MX8000A. I've had this desk since 2002 and apart from two inaudible channels, it's fine. I like it because it has 4 band EQ 2 sweep, 24 main channels and 24 mix B channels = 48 channels in total, which we must have. But I've heard that they are a nightmare to repair and that they are a really dumb design, I'd want one that is easy to repair. if ever more of the channels went inaudible, what would be a good replacement? I have come up with four possible answers. Can anyone give me a bit of information with the following desks? And what is meant by a a modular mixer?

Soundcraft Ghost 24 LE (with mix B)
Soundtracs Topaz Project 8 24 (With Mix B)
Soundtracs Solo Logic 24 (EQ split between main and monitor channels)
Tascam M2600 (EQ split between main and monitor channels)

I also use a StudioMaster Mixdown Classic 8 at my friends studio.

 

[Bobbsy]

I'm a big fan of the Soundcraft Ghost--a lovely sounding console and really nice to use. My knowledge of the rest of your shortlist is slight but I can give a big thumbs of to the Soundcraft if it's in decent condition and at a good price.

As for a modular console, once you get up in the the good quality stuff, instead of on big board, it's arranged in a bunch of plug in modules so you can customise it and also swap out any faulty bits without having to dismantle the whole thing. Generally the modules are split up...sometimes each channel is a single module, other times they're in blocks of 4 to 8 channels at a time. Similarly, there's probably a master module and maybe separate ones for monitoring, a matrix or whatever. Between the ability to customise and install spares, it's a great system (though less so for discontinued products obviously). However, if a console is modular, chances are it's a professional work horse.

 

[Simman]

I have a ghost and like it just fine there are modifications that make it even better but the topaz aint bad either

 

[Stickman0_2]

I may have the chance to purchase a Studiomaster Mixdown Classic 8 next year. I have another question about it:-

It is a dual channel desk with Tape A/Tape B inputs. Does this mean that I can have leads plugged into Channels A and B at the same time? So when I've digitally recorded what's on Tape A, I can then switch to Tape B without removing any leads? Or would this cause any feedback or interference?

It is 3 band EQ, 2 sweep, so if I can do what I have just mentioned, I have 48 channels with 3 band EQ, 2 sweep, is this right?