Time for a change

[The Hit House]

I want to thank you all for all your help over the years on the other forum. I posted many times and someone was always there to help. For that I can't thank you enough.
I run an HDR24/96 and the d8b and I record as a hobby. I've had my d8b for five years and I've had enough. It's been one problem after another. I can't count how many sessions imploded because the d8b froze up, or wouldn't start or just decided it didn't want to be part of the session. Every time I press record, something doesn't work. It's the #1 most frustrating thing in my life. I'm done!!
My question is can anyone recomend a desk?
I own a 1990's Soundcraft Spirit 24x8x2 which I really like but I'd like to continue with a digital desk that will work with the HDR. I do not want to move to an "in the box" system because I cannot afford to purchase the new computer, software, interface, etc. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[Petersueco]

I'm basically in the same situation as you. My d8b is really giving me some hard sessions and a lot of frustrations lately.

The problem is that I can't find anything that does what a d8b does for a reasonable amount of money (less that $10.000). My studio is also merely a very expensive hobby so any high investment is difficult to justify.

After doing some research on the net looking for prices, specs and other comparisons, I came to the conclusion that is better to look for a d8b second hand that is in a good shape that trying to replace the beast with another mixer that will imply I'll need to change my computer interface and a lot of cabling associated to it (I have a 5.1 setup wired up to the d8b with specific cables that i would not be able to re utilize).

I think that the whole idea of the d8bMkII began with the need of a similar desk with upgraded converters and some extra functions. I still believe there is a niche in the mixers/controller market that has not been filled up yet. Isn't it strange?

So, yes, anybody with suggestions to replace the d8b are very welcome.

Peter Holmquist.