There are other reasons for larger mixers. In general, the bigger mixers are of much higher quality. There are certainly exceptions, but I am speaking generally. Larger consoles often have more aux sends, 24 or more busses, actual parametric EQ'ing rather than just sweepable mids, more comprehensive master sections and metering, nicer faders, better summing, modular builds, better crosstalk and noise specs, balanced inserts, built in patchbays with multipin wiring schemes, switches for EQ's and insert points, and often have incredible sounding EQ's and preamps. I know with my console I ended paying about $250 a channel for channels with Penny and Giles faders, 4 band fully parametric EQ's, excellent preamps, 24 busses, 12 auxes, automation (which is a little outdated so I don't use that aspect), optional dynamics package, recallable routing, a master section with 8 two track return points, 4 control room outs with mono, dimming and talkback facilities etc... The real kicker for me though was how it sounds. It easily holds its own against outboard channels in the $1000 to $2000 range. It also doubles as a heater in the winter