2nd mixer or retire my aging interface?

I have been using an M-Audio Delta 1010 with a Mackie 1202 VlZ-Pro (just for preamps and monitoring) for several years (like a decade)
 
I'm setting up a small setup in another room (probably non-pc based) and was going to purchase a 2nd mixer...
 
Then I thought maybe it was time to upgrade the interface to something more modern that also includes pre's and other features I don't have with the 1010. (I've always liked the 1010...but, open to new things)
 
I've always been a little leery of USB interfaces, but it seems that most people here seem to like them.
 
I'm curious as to whether the Pre's in these units will be as good as the pre's in the Mackie.
 
Also, compatibility with Sonar (I'm assuming the Roland should be fine....I'm using Sonar 8.5.3)
 
Will the audio be any better than with the 1010?
 
My absolute top end budget is around $700-$750.
 
I've looked at a few, for example, The Focusrite scarlett 18i6, The Presonus 1818VSL, and the Roland Octa-capture.
 
For ease of use, RELIABILITY and DURABILITY, and overall sound quality....what's the consensus?
 
Stick with my current setup and buy a 2nd mixer, or retire the 1010 and get one of these? (or another one, if you have experience with one I missed)
 
If so....which would be the most recommended?
 
This will be for an at-home, non-mobile setup.
 
Thank you for any and all opinions! 
 

I have 2 interfaces from Focusrite and neither have ever let me down.

Personally, I'd go with the second-mixer idea for the maximum flexibility at the lowest cost.

If I were to replace my current interface (MOTO 828MkII, 7 years and counting) I'd probably be more concerned with the number of line-level inputs and invest in a quality multi-channel preamp. 

You will have a hard time besting the sound quality of the delta 1010 with the choices you mentioned. I prefer a dedicated pre-amp versus using the ones from an interface. So if pre-amps are the driving factor, I would recommend a new mixer versus changing audio cards.

I too have had the 1010 for a long time - 2000. The conversion quality is very good in comparison with some of the newer interfaces available.

I use an old-school mixer set up and used to own the Delta 1010 - I loved it - but had to get rid of it because it wouldn't play nice with my new computer set up. I replaced it with a Focusrite Scarlett 18I6 and haven't looked back. The newer USB interfaces are excellent and very convenient to use. Whatever you decide to do - you have a lot of options available.

Thanks Bit, I DO feel better (if a little poorer) ;) ..have you ever thought of going into psychiatry? ;)

I've heard good things about the Roland...so I'm sure it'll be a pleasure.

As far as monitors....you're right about the can o' worms...

As I mentioned in another post, (where you also replied) that I don't have the option of listening to any, as the local music stores here do not carry anything as esoteric and unheard of as studio monitors.

So, I guess in reality, it really doesn't matter what I get...I've been using a pair of repurposed Paradigm atoms for a couple years....and they just aren't that great for the purpose.

I'm a little leery of Mackie stuff at the moment (not dissing the company...I own a few pieces of their gear from several years ago that I'm quite fond of) but have read less flattering reviews of late. 

Behringer just doesn't appeal to me...I've read so-so things on the KRK Rockits

The Yamahas seem to do well in the reviews I've read....although their frequency response is using a -10db qualifier vs -3db, so their already modest low end might be even more modest

You had suggested going with an 8" version of whatever brand (vs 5")....Unfortunately there's a $300 price differential between the HS50M and HS80M.

Now, I see there's an MSP line that may be a bit better (and they're pricier...the MSP5 at about $550/pr and the MSP7 (6.5" driver) at about $800/pr)


If anyone has any experience with any of these, I'd like to hear even more thoughts.

I guess I'm wondering if an 8" driver is typical for a near-field monitor...

And will it make the bass seem "artificially" enhanced?

Of course....I also don't know what order crossover these are, either.  I'm fairly certain they wouldn't be a first order...They'd probably blow out a lot more tweeters if they were.

Well...I'll probably wait until after Thanksgiving, anyway....so I have some time to do more exhaustive research ;)

I really should just flip a coin.....I'll learn to deal with whatever I have... :)

I guess I'm wondering if an 8" driver is typical for a near-field monitor... And will it make the bass seem "artificially" enhanced?

To accurately hear what's going on down below 100Hz, I'd want studio monitors with an 8" woofer.
The HR824mkII are fine.  The radio station where my girlfriend works just installed them in all their studio suites.
I've been using HR824s for what must be 10+ years.  Still work well...