Feature:
It would be nice to have two more pre-fader sends, but at this price-point the existing feature set probably makes this too costly. By getting the 24 xlr versin, I create a third mix using the inserts to patch over to other unused channel line inputs. Then I assign those to a subgroup or two and not to the mains. The faders can be used to create the third or even fourth mix with some creative experimentation. Direct outs could be good, but the inserts can be used as d/o, and for me it's enough.

Quality:
everything is perfect out of the box. The controls are firm, with the faders the least firm, but very smoothe and controllable. The fit and finish is on a par with everybody else...just fine. I am not the least bit worried about the "horror stories" as they have simply become urban legend on the web. My own personal experience with behringer, and local music store information has laid all these stories to rest around here. How long will it last? I don't plan to throw it arouns, so I expect years of usage.

Value:
Hands down winner here. Nothing else is even close. You will find some used boards with more sends, but fewer channels, new boards with less of everything, any variation in-between. Pound-for-pound, dollar-for-dollar..this board has more of the typical weekend-warrior needs covered for less money.

Desirability:
It's gorgeous...maybe not exactly like the onyx is gorgeous. A little more of a retro-gorgeous. It is not, BTW a close cosmetic copy of the onyx if you are an observent person....a little siver here and there doen't make them look alike in my book.

Sound:
There is no downside to the sound of this board. The preamps are transparent and quiet, special effects work great, plenty of headroom...everything you ask a mixer to do for your sound is there. Making vocals and instruments sound the way they go in is extremely important, and this board is that way. You can, however tweak everything to get whatever "version" of those sounds you want.

Ease of Use:
intuitive, well grouped controls. well written manual, although I have previouss mixer experience. I don't think anybody quite matches mackie in this department...user friendly manual, that is. Behringer Online support is there for any questions. I can't think of an easier way to add a subwoofer than to use this mono out with adjustable volume and adustable lpf...in conjuntion with the adjustable hpf on my behringer eq...unbelievable difference in the clarity and power requirements of my system from this one feature.

Support:
I have never needed any supports except for simple questions...always a prompt, courteous response.

Overall:
I have no inkling to look for a different mixer. I shopped for 6 months and did extensive research to determine if the internet babble on three very vocal forums was really the majority opinion. It is not. It is also not based on current information regarding behringer products or business practices. I bought this mixer because I am an educated consumer who knows what I want and what it's worth. My music sounds better, my bands needs are now met, and this mixer is a key ingredient. The common recommendation for a small mixer with 16 inputs and 6 sends is around $1000. That is simply not a player for many folks. Neither is a legitimate need or technical ability to use 6 sends. This board had 24 mono channels and so many routing options, a competent sound person will find the sends more than adequate for the weekend gig band. I'd replace it with another one...or add a 2442fx or some xenyx version if the need for a monitor board ever arose...that beside this would be capability well beyond any reality I see in my forseeable future.