yyou're right. i'll look into a programmable patch bay

 

Not sure if this counts as summing mixer but I recently purchased an old 32 channel recording console from 1991 to use for tracking and mixing, I clock a few interfaces together to get all the IO needed (use all 32 channels at mixdown). There is definitley a difference in sonics between ITB and OTB, not sure if I'd call it better or worse but the difference is present. I find I like the workflow much more mixing OTB but, it costs ALOT to set up (or it did in my case). I think if you have outboard gear and want to be able to patch certain chains in and out quickly, analog is the way to go, but if not, digital really isn't bad for summing! At least I don't think so. Money is better spent on amassing nice outboard gear and mics...If you do choose the summing route for whatever reason, get the highest quality box you can afford, that way if you don't like it, you can always sell it...Good quality products don't lose resale value as much as low end gear!