Even if I moved ITB I would still find a small mixer a must have. I think back in the day PT TDM systems were my biggest seller of small Mackie’s and the like.
Yes maybe for tracking but, setting the plug in latency in Logic @ max 2ms plus engaging low latency mode I can use EQ and compression and basic FXs in tracking without having to deal with any massive latency.
It works with larger projects too.
If I need more horsepower I freeze or send audio-processes to Vienna-Server.
Hearing stories - how producing was back in the days two things come to my mind.
I can't afford it, and it's way more complicate.
I can use Logic very similar to an INLINE console.
And that's a big advantage for me, I can save and go on the next day.
And since Corona the days when I can work on my songs are everything else than regular.
I have to take the time I get, even if its just 2 hours in between things...
Using the combination of hard and software is perfect for me.
Special because the plug ins sound more and more like the real deal.
My argument is that wanting a console is nice and if money is no issue go for it.
But if money is an issue, and this is fact for most of us in these times, there is no excuse to not produce a good song anymore.
You are way longer in this than I.
I just can see the audio inventions of the last two decades - its massive.
Even 4 years ago I was convinced that hardware just sounds better.
And this is falling now too.
Sorry for me this is blessed times seen from the perspective that all this has been nothing but a wet dream in the 80s.
I can produce professional sounding songs in mini studio.... its still a big deal for me and I love it.