Regarding automation v adding nodes manually, totally agree with g-hack's comments, but I am more more comfortable mixing with physical faders on the console.  The OCD side of me, though, wants to put those nodes at exact values and get those panning %s right...
 
One downside to mixing with the V-Studio 700 console is that the knobs used for panning move too much.  A "normal" mixing desk had pan pots that went from about 7:00 to 5:00.  On the V-Studio, you have to spin the knob around a couple of times to get the full range.  I understand why, since they want to give you a full 100%L to 100%R without skipping any numbers, but it does not feel right and I can never get to the right value quickly enough when sweeping.  Luckily, you can flip the console and use the faders for panning to create your automation and then flip back to normal mode.  Still odd, though.