Tascam Model 12

I have 6 synth modules that I currently use with a Tascam Model 12, which is a nice, affordable mixer/interface solution, but it has it's limitations - the biggest of which (for me) is that it's either an interface or a mixer, but not both at the same time. Meaning when it's in interface mode, the entire set of channel strips are bypassed. I'm interested in maintaining a hardware set up for EQ & compression, but the alternatives to this (channel strips, 500 series options, and individual EQs and compressors) seem to be very expensive comparatively.

If you are rather a hands on person the Model 12 delivers far better, real faders, real knobs, two headphone outs which is important for me jamming out with another person, every channel has a one knob compressor, two dedicated hardware inserts on ch 1/2 for outboard gear like an external eq, footswitch, two dedicated aux sends for external efx, one sub stereo output with is's own channel fader. Master section eq with bell curve shaped eq option. Real power supply not usb power, full size TRS connections, ability to connect microphones.