chrisrnps : I am using a 16 channel Behringer. I think it is great for the price. It hasn't blown up from all the things i did with it and it still works well enough after 4 years. I thought Mackie would be a nice upgrade but most people seem to suggest avoiding them.
I need more channels, and better quality. My XBase 999 has so many outputs and i only use the stereo output and an extra output. Hence why i would like more channels but i could settle with 16 channels on a really good mixer board. I liked digital mixers because you can chain them or add inputs to them.
Overdrive is crucial to the way i work. I didn't think of it before you wrote that but indeed, i think i overdrive different parts of the mixer when i boost frequencies with the EQs (i know, it's not a recommended way of working but using this on one or two channels can really change some sounds) or just overdrive the preamps.
I want a new mixer because i want to buy locally. Dealt with all shipping companies over the past years and i am fed up of dealing with their crpapy service and expensive prices. Also, i got rid of all my broken used gear last year because it was really difficult finding someone to fix them. I want to buy something that comes with a warranty, too
Local used ads aren't so great for music gear buying, either.
aftertouch : i want to know more. Anything you dislike about it ? Are the effects decent ?
msl : Thanks for the information. Have you tried other models of A&H ?
I'm also curious about Soundcraft. Are those decent enough or should i avoid them ? Other brands i should consider ?
Thanks to everyone who replied. It's really helpful