V-Studio console question?

The V700 C console controller will hook up via USB to your PC DAW and control Sonar. There are special drivers and a dip switch setting on the unit for operating it this way without the special hookup on the V700R. as to whether it will control Midi functions on the Audiobox 1818VSL or visa versa, I couldn't say. I'm not familiar with that unit. It will work with  several non-cakewalk units, you'll have to investigate.

The V700C is a digital mixer, complete with automation, effects control, editing controls, etc. You'll learn that Midi is the control language for all such mixers -control surfaces, as well as a instrument method. If you are going to use Sonar Producer, there will be a lot of soft synths included. You might want to check out how you can tailor synths to match Acoustic music. There are lots of choices these days, so..., I'm just sayin...

Thanks. I don't see why an acoustic guitar, a fiddle, a banjo or a vocal has to go through MIDI? What's wrong with recording those the 'organic' way? The Beatles sounded okay!  

I would not buy a the VS, buy something with a little bit of shelf life, something you can grow with. As you can see all growth has stopped in this region of the land.
I'd go for a digital mixer with transport controls built in.