[GrooveMerchant]

You could start with the Folcrom since it's a cheap passive summing mixer. Those who mention the snake oil may not be considering the total workflow situation. Imagine gate/exp and comp/lim plus EQ while you're mixing on each channel. Hardware inserts may handle it, but OTB seems like a better concept. Plus you pick your gain makeup with the Folcrom (one of the paths I'll take after instrument purchases). Hit 16 to 2 on the Folcrom then send it to two Chandler Germaniums, 2 Tonelux MP-1As, 2 Neve, 2 API, etc. Check out Paul Wolffs Tonelux modules and concepts. Sounds like with the $ you have you can implement 2 techniques. I'd go Folcrom and later build up a V8 or VRack from Paul Wolff at Tonelux (using FX2 / FX2+) and have a dual solution you can continue to build on. I'm thinking of a Purple Sweet 10 and some Tonelux for more outboard soon to insert with Folcrom use. And a nifty patchbay.