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 recently asked a similar question because I want to replace my audio interface and get rid of the mixer - which I use as a patchbay - and Focusrite seemed to be a favorite. 

After doing a bit more research, I have to say that Focusrite is now on top of my list for the next audio interface.

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

Focusrite interfaces are know for their stellar preamps.  

When I first bought my Focusrite I had no clue about much of this stuff.  Seems I simply made a fortunate purchase. I have no mixer board in my studio at all.... with the Focusrite, I don't need it.

While my interface is a firewire interface, I would very likely consider a USB based interface if this gem ever quits on me. The USB interface/ports are now as fast if not faster than the firewire port. At the time I bought, FW was faster..... but that has changed. 

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. 

Thanks for the responses...

I'm still torn...  I'm sure I would end up spending between $500-700 for the mixer (Yes, I could get a cheaper one, but it's just how I know I am...Was looking at models by Allen & Heath and Soundcraft)

I have to admit..the Octa-capture has caught my eye...and the reviews I've found have been pretty good.

I just need to ask if I'd be better off upgrading....I mean, the 1010 still works just fine....but I have to assume (dangerous, I know) that the hardware has probably improved quite a bit since I purchased it back around 2000 (possibly before...I can't quite remember)

And it would also streamline my setup...

One thing.....with these interfaces with built in pre's.....let's say I buy a decent pre down the road...can the built in pre's on these units be bypassed?

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.

Well, after much deliberation....I have ordered a Roland OctaCapture.  I got a good price on it, and it seems like a decent unit.  I'll be nail biting until it arrives.  ;) 
 
Maybe I can still use the Delta 1010 for something....

Plus, I can get a full version of Sonar Studio via a rebate....so...all in all, not a bad deal.

Now I just need to decide on the monitors I want....I'm leaning heavily towards Yamaha's....not sure about the HS series or the MSP's....

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.

Don't agonize over it, Ozz. You bought an excellent interface that you won't outgrow for a long, long time. There, don't you feel better already?

Monitors, OTOH...now that's a whole 'nother can o' worms.