[Geosync]

This is a great product yamaha... But I can't help feeling like l've just been had.
I bought a 'runout' i88x 6 months ago, and I just bought cubase studio 4.

Both wise choices, I imagine you got a great deal on the discontinued i88X.
As for Cubase Studio 4, it's a great product too and all you have to do to add Advanced Integration with the n-series is download the templates from Yamahasynth.com

Being that the n-series mixers have coverters built in (that are better than the i88x?) would you advise selling the i88x? Will the n-series sound as good? Are the pre's REALLY as good?

that depends on your needs.
The i88X is a great I/O with 2 really good mic pres.
the n-series is a mixer with 4/8 Better mic pres, morphing compressors, Rev-X verb, Eq Etc. (yes the pres are better, the best Yamaha has ever made)

If you you are doing Live remote recording in stereo, the i88x is great for that.
If you need ADAT to Firewire it's great for that.
If you want a great interactive digital recording environment, that feels and sounds analog, you'll most definately want the n-series.

Also, what is the functionality of Cubase AI? Is it basically the same as Cubase Studio 4, between Studio and the 'Full' version, or has less functionality than Studio 4?

Cubase AI is a step up from Cubase LE but a step down from Cubase Studio 4 you can have it all with the download mentioned earlier.

Also, do the faders control the actual chanell level in the DAW, or just the input gain running through the mixer? Think of the n as an analog mixer, not a control surface. Although it does have some Major cool interaction with Cubase (Studio 4 for you ;) )

Is the N-12 a fully functional control surface in the 'classic' sense of the word?

No it has Classic sound and some inovative functions such as
1: Work Modes
2: Monitoring or recording of VST on Channel insert using the "wet" Button
3: superior control room monitoring features
4: Combined Direct or DAW monitoring on a channel by channel basis

There's a lot more if you go to the link at the beginning of this thread



When will we see them in Australia?

I do not know. You'll have to ask your dealers down under
I am a product manager in the US.