Just to avoid confusion - The Mackie 1202 series does NOT route the monitor send to the EQ of the channel, but you DO have the option of selecting "post" so it follows the EQ. (It functions as an additional effect send this way)
IN the "pre" mode - it goes to the mains without passing through the EQ. Small point, but worth mentioning.
You're right about subs - they add so much to an overall sound. Whenever it REAL important, I carry a separate crossover and a sub system too. Most times, I don't need it.