Abstract: A multi-channel and multi-capability facsimile system including N(.gtoreq.2) signal-carrying facsimile channels, an image server means to process, store and retrieve document image information, and a master processing unit to control the process by which information is transferred between a facsimile channel and the image server means, and to enable and disable data compression and expansion document image information that is provided to or received from the facsimile channels. The system: (1) allows visual display of document pages sent and/or received in the resolution in which the document is originally received or generated; (2) allows transmission, receipt and storage of document image information and speech or voice signals; (3) allows control of the destination address and route used for transmitted document and speech infomation, using the DTMF touch tone signaling available with a telephone; (4) supports CCITT group 2, Group 3 and Group 4 standards.