If you plan on setting 'looks' and creating different effects, I would also not recommend the Acclaim. I stand behind
ETC 100% but the Acclaim is more entry-level, and for the money, I don't think it would make you very happy. I honestly think you could do alot more with your cash. Look into an Express, or follow other's recomendations on the
Strand desks. I could not comment on the Strands because I have almost no experience with them. If you are looking for something alittle more budget-friendly, NSI and Leprecon also make good boards.