analog mixing consoles

There are a few older boards that can be recapped, rechipped, modified, and perform very well. I'm not familiar with all the models, but there's one by soundcraft (the 200b I think), the Yamaha PM1000/PM2000, the older A&H boards, and a few others that I can't think of right now (maybe Midas Venice or TAC Scorpion, I'm not sure)

As for currently available stuff, there's the Toft ATB, the TL Audio M1 Tube Tracker, the Manley tube mixer (no eq's), A couple models by Speck (xtramix and another one I can't think of, no preamps) there's a new one just announced by Focusrite (the Control 2802, mic pres, but no EQs), another one just announced by Harrison (the 950m), and I believe someone is prototyping a mixer that accepts API 500 series modules, but I can't remember who, and I can't find it now.

Personally, I think the problem with sinking $3k into a mixer is that chances are, either the mic preamps or the eq's or the master summing module will disappoint you (until you get up around $10k or so but then you're almost in the neighborhood of real large format consoles), and aside from that, you're getting 24-32 of the same pre/eq. I'd go with a combination of an API 500 rack (or an SSL X-Rack if you're sold on that sound - I just got a Mynx and an XR-425), the pres/eq's of your choosing, and a passive summing mixer.

And BTW, I don't think Toft is considered to be anywhere near the same class as SSL.

Well I don't want to discourage you, but I looked into mixers myself some time ago, and from what I read about the Toft, it has great EQs and not so great preamps.

Toft is nice, Soundcraft, Midas, Amek, to anem a few.... Look for a used Trident, they sound nice. If I remember correctly, youre in Calgary? Theres a few boards for sale right now in AB, just gotta have the $.

I once had a D&R series8000 console. Very nice for a good price. Of course you need the space for stuff like that.

peace

Trident is the company. Personally I am a fan of theirs. I like their pres and eqs. I think Toft has some part of the old Trident company involved. I havent ever used one so I dont know what they sound like, but they look really nice for size/price.

You can pick up used consoles for little money nowadays:

I would look for DDR FMR, Amek, Harrison, Soundcraft, Neve Bucket, Studer (into 2 formats) and Raindirk (who builds to spec). Alternatively, go down the modular route or the summing path like the Neve 8816. There is also the Genesys if you can afford it.