Hi Nate,
I got an SC48 about 6 months after they started shipping them, and have been touring with it doing about 180 shows a year since, so maybe I can help.
First off what Ben said about Router/iPad is where I would start. I can't tell you how many times it has helped/saved me. I use my iPhone 4, Linksys router, and an app called iTeleport. A tablet or iPad is great, I just use my phone because its always in my pocket and it works great.
The plug-ins it comes with are great too. Revibe, Smack!, TL Aggro comp, Eleven, BF76, lots of good stuff. I haven't used the Crainsong but hear lots of good about it. The Waves stuff is great, I would recommend the C4 or C6 multi-band comp if your not going to get a bundle. Its very powerful. A friend if mine, who works with top level acts on huge tours told me early on that Smack! on "Opto" is his go to plug-in for vocals. He's right.
That being said, I agree with Scott, mix on it for a while and see if anything is falling short. Then come here with a specific plug-in need and these guys will point you right.
Also the MacBook Pro for recording especially if they actually bump tracks from 18 to 32. Since Avid opened up the platform, lots of other programs recognize the D-Show fwx interface. We record into "Audio Hijack Pro" direct to MP3 every night. It lists the D-Show fwx as an input option. Its totally solid, never failed.
I hope this helps. Enjoy it, its a great desk.
Luke