Feature:
Very typical stuff, though it does offer a S/PDIF output. 4 mono line/mic inputs with direct outs asell as inserts, 4 stereo inputs, 4 aux (2x pre, 2x post eq), 4x aux return (RCA/cinch) aswell as the standard mix inserts and mix monitor. Oh, and a pair of headphones output. Faders are 100mm and feel precise, aswell as the knobs, which by being a bit 'harder' to tweak, submit a precise feel. As mentioned before, the filters are typical stuff. Though they sound perfect. The only real drawbacks are dependant on your needs, and rather obvious: too less channels, aswell as too less aux sends/returns. Also the lack of busses maybe considered as a drawback. Though for me that is no real problem. I record directly to PC, but I let my sequencer's mixer do all the seperate channel recording. Besides, the sound does fully compensate for the lack of busses. All of these drawbacks are obvious and should be considered BEFORE purchasing the mixer, so they don't weight in that much.

Quality:
Soundcraft quality at it's best. A sexy, sexy SEXY metal casing, which has removable side panels which will allow you to 'rack it up' in your studio or on a live gig. Faders, knobs aswell as the total 'atmosphere' simply breaths quality. Very good stuff. Oh, and it's solid matal casing makes it absolutly road-proof aswell!!!

Value:
It does everything I ask, aswell as submit a very comfortable feeling because you know you're in control. And since every knob is were it's supposed to be, you feel a certain ease when using it. This helps to relax aswell as 'tickel' your creativity... Uhm. I guess... ;)

Desirability:
I'm thinking of purchasing a M8 or maybe M12 somewhere soon, as the amount of in/outputs of my M4 are getting limited. Though I might consider another Soundcraft mixer, with busses. For me, these guys are favorites on the mixing front. Still waiting for one of their digital models though... ;)

Sound:
I have had several mixers; Yamaha, Behringer and a Mackie aswell. This one has it's own, warm and clear sound. In one word: great. Especially at this price, and compared to my previous mixers. EQ are typical hi/low pass filters on the stereo channels aswell as hi/mid/low on the mono channels. These do a wonderful job.

Support:
I live in the netherlands, and I have mailed to their brittish help desk once. A few days later, a dutch representative called me and answered my question. What more can I ask for?

Overall:
Very satisfied, and have been for about 3 years now. It's just that my gear is slowly expanding. I'll look for a M8 or M12 for sure...