Audio Systems: Building a recording studio, building a recording studio, mixer board

Question
Hey I'm a audio engineer, my current vocal chain is MXL-V69 mic >Compressor>AudioBox>Cubase.   I was wondering since my audiobox has only 2 mic inputs, and I want to branch out and do other genres that require multi instrument recording, what should I invest in, a High End Firefsce 400 audio interface, or save up and buy a high end Mixer Board.

Answer
I think there are other solutions you could consider as well.  But, my opinion is of the two choices you mention having a mixer board is really nice; professional and lots of flexibility.  And, the impress the recording customer and performers alot.

Suggestion: If you are near to a Sam Ash or other type of music/professional studio store pay them a visit and get to know one of the sales staff who can talk you through some of the better solutions to your size and scope of operations and where you want to go.  It turns out that there are regional influences and the type of music/genre and artists that you deal with that will influence what the hardware should be.  The Sam Ash people I have known in the past are pretty sharp people about what's hot and what's not.  

Best wishes.  Sounds like you will have alot of fun.