I recommend figuring out what your console budget is first, that way you're not overwhelmed with suggestions from all the slutz varying from Soundcraft 200B's, Amek Angelas, Trident Series 24s, MCI JH-800s, Toft ATBs, to API 1604s. You've already gotten suggestions for consoles that range from $15k to $250.
For the record, truly "going old school" would be to abandon your DAW and get a 2 track and multi-track tape machine in addition to a console.
It sounds like you're most interested in mixing OTB, of whom a large percentage of GS users already do.
Which is to most considered the middle ground.
