Conservatively, I would say yes, but I would need to know what kind of features do you need on this mixer. Is it important to have more than two auxes, do they need to be pre/post switchable? Do you need stereo channels? Do you need expansion options, such as FireWire out? Do you need EQ, and if so, do you need two mids? ALl of these things affect the price of the mixer greatly.
In the mean time, you may want to look at the following boards:
I'm not sure I understand. By powered, do you mean self-powered? (i.e., doesn't need to be plugged in?) Or do you mean that it provides phantom power to its XLR inputs?
I personally think it will be a challenge to find a board with a built-in amplifier for under $300 (at least, a quality one that will last more than a few years). However, you might consider looking at an inexpensive board (see above), and then an inexpensive amp to go along with it.
By the way, just to clarify, phantom power refers to the +48V that many boards offer to powercondenser microphones. Phantom power does not refer to the ability of a sound board to power speakers without an amplifier.
I have a good relationship with Peavey, especially a monster of a desk that predates me by 5 years. In my estimation it will more than pay for itself in the long term.
I got it today, I love it already because I can make my sister freak when I say: "you will die in seven days"(from the movie "the Ring") with the effects set on delay 1.