SQL2008R2 is end of life and out of support for sp4 on 09/07/2019.  Ideally before that date I'd suggest you do upgrade. 

I've found SQL2012STD to be responsive and has improved look up speeds and retrieving data.   Ideally SQL2008R2 should be run on Server 2008R2 and vice versa for SQL2012 should be run on Server 2012.  The express editions are just as good but are limited to memory and database size.

Hello! 

I was just wondering whether it was worth upgrading to Microsoft SQL 2012 from 2008R2, and whether it was straightforward enough to do? 

		Linden Wade / Programme Controller  linden.wade@cheesy-fm.com / 07725 942 793 Cheesy FM   01782 760 853  8 Pall Mall, Stoke on Trent. ST1 1ER  www.cheesy-fm.com